Whether you’re climbing mountains or trekking through the jungle, merino wool clothe is one of the most versatile and functional pieces of gear for outdoor adventurers. Its temperature responsiveness, wicking properties, and warmth-to-weight ratio are unmatched by anything else on the market.
It’s Natural
While most wool is synthetic, merino is naturally produced by the sheep themselves between Australia and New Zealand. This means that not only is it renewable, but it’s also incredibly sustainable. In addition to being an ethical and environmentally friendly choice, it’s also a great way to support the livelihood of local farmers.
It’s Comfortable at All Temperatures
Unlike synthetic materials that wick sweat when it’s already a liquid, merino transports moisture as vapor so you never feel wet and cold no matter what the weather’s like. The fibers themselves are composed of little plates that absorb vapor in between, which is why you don’t feel soggy or clammy after a sweaty workout.
It’s Highly Durable and Long-Lasting
Because merino is a natural material, it’s very durable and won’t fade or stretch over time. This makes it an ideal choice for hiking and tackling challenging hikes in the rain or wind, as well as climbing, kayaking, skiing, and other outdoorsy activities.
It’s Machine Washable and Dryable
Luckily, merino wool is a pretty simple fabric get more info to care for. You can either machine wash it on a delicate cycle or handwash it with a wool-specific detergent to remove any built-up odors.
To make sure your merino clothing stays its best, avoid wringing it too much as this can cause wrinkles and shrinkage. Instead, lay it flat to dry. Alternatively, you can tumble it to dry (but be sure not to do this in the dryer, as this can cause the fabric to crack).
It’s Easy to Clean
Most modern merino clothing is machine washable and will last a long time if you follow these steps: Place your merino item inside out in a mesh laundry bag and wash on a gentle cycle with cold water using a wool-specific detergent. Rinse and squeeze out any excess water before laying it to dry.
Its Anti-Bacteria Effect
During the process of manufacturing, raw wool is exposed to a lot of things. These include grease, oils, dirt, and bacteria. However, the lanolin that is left in merino helps to repel bacteria. Additionally, the microstructure of merino is scaly with a relatively neutral electric charge, so it’s less likely to attract odor-causing bacteria.
It’s Biodegradable and Eco-Friendly
While most fabrics are made from petrochemicals and end up in landfill, merino wool is produced with natural resources. This makes it a great option for backpackers who are looking to reduce their impact on the environment.
It’s a Better Insulator Than Cotton or Polyester
A common complaint with winter clothes is that they don’t keep you warm. This is because they can’t absorb as much heat from the air as wool does.
Because of this, wool can be one of the best insulation materials you can use for a winter jacket or sweater. It will keep you warm even when you get wet, and it can absorb up to 30% of your body weight in moisture without feeling wet or clammy.