What Is Merino Wool? Everything You Need To Know | Alan Paine
Created by nature and designed to work in harmony with the human body whether you are at work, rest or play, merino wool is quite simply nature’s wonder fibre. We use 100% fine Italian merino wool in the creation of our men’s merino wool jumpers, combining evolutionary style with luxurious comfort and touch. Here is everything you need to know about Alan Paine’s merino wool.
Where Does Merino Wool Come From?
For many centuries, wool from the merino breed of sheep has been held in the highest esteem. In 1797, the first merino sheep, derived from the famed Royal Merino flocks of Spain, were introduced into Australia. Today, most of the world’s merino wool comes from Australia and New Zealand, produced by woolgrowers who follow sustainable farming practices.
Merino wool is grown year‑round by merino sheep. Each animal produces a new fleece every year, with around 4.5 kilograms of wool per sheep. Merinos can endure temperatures as low as five degrees and are still regarded as having some of the finest and softest wool of any sheep.
How Fine Is Merino Wool?
Wool can be divided into three main categories based on the diameter, or micron, of each fibre. Wool must be finer than 24 microns to be classified as merino. The smaller the fibre diameter, the finer the merino and the softer it feels.
A single merino wool fibre is roughly one third of the diameter of a human hair, which is what gives merino its smooth, gentle handle and exceptional comfort.
Is Merino Wool Itchy?
Because merino wool fibres are so fine and pliable, they bend out of the way when they brush against the skin. The fibres cannot support their own weight, which means merino wool does not feel itchy or prickly like some other types of wool.
Is Merino Wool Warm?
Merino wool is a great insulator and much warmer than regular wool. The fibres have a natural crimp in their structure that traps body heat and prevents it from dissipating. The finer the fibres, the greater the crimp and the more air pockets are created, which gives fine merino wool an unrivalled warmth‑to‑weight ratio. The fibres also help block cold air from entering. Wool has a natural elasticity thanks to this crimp, allowing merino garments to stretch comfortably and return to their original shape.
Is Merino Wool Breathable?
Merino wool has excellent breathability because the fibres are able to absorb moisture and release it through evaporation. It is a highly effective temperature regulator, controlling your body heat by slowing down or speeding up the rate at which moisture evaporates from the fibres.
Other Benefits
Merino wool has natural anti‑microbial properties that help you stay fresh for longer. It absorbs odour molecules from sweat, which are only released during washing. Because it is so breathable, merino prevents the warm, moist conditions that odour‑causing bacteria thrive in.
Gentle on even the most sensitive skin, merino wool is often suitable for those who would normally suffer from irritation or allergies. Many merino products are easy care, with a number of items being machine washable.
Merino wool is highly absorbent and can take on up to 30 percent of its weight in water before it feels wet. The fibres create much lighter fabrics that absorb less moisture and dry more quickly. Merino wool is also extremely durable, as the individual fibres interlock thanks to their natural protein structure, and it offers a matchless drape that gives garments a refined, elegant silhouette.
Sustainability
Merino is a natural and renewable material, requires less frequent washing and is completely biodegradable at the end of its life. It is a true slow‑fashion champion. Breathable, antibacterial, lightweight, soft and easy care, this versatile wool is especially suitable for luxury clothing, performance sportswear and base layer garments.
