Merino wool
Fine wool from Merino sheep. Thin fibres feel soft rather than itchy. It regulates temperature, stays warm when damp and resists odour.
How it’s made
- 1Sheared from Merino sheep, mostly in Australia, New Zealand, South America and South Africa.
- 2Scoured (washed) to remove grease (lanolin) and dirt, then carded and combed into tops.
- 3Spun and knitted. Many machine-washable versions are 'superwash' treated, often with chlorine plus a polymer resin, though chlorine-free methods exist.
What to look for
- Fibre fineness in microns: lower is softer. Next-to-skin base layers typically use finer grades.
- Mulesing-free and RWS or ZQ certified wool.
- Core-spun or nylon-blended versions for durability in socks and running tees.
Pros
- Odour resistant: wear more, wash less
- Warm when damp
- Comfortable over a wide temperature range
Cons
- Less abrasion-resistant than synthetics
- Moth risk
- Thin knits can hole
Typical use
- Running:
- Base layers, tees and socks for long runs and cold weather.
- Streetwear:
- Knitwear, T-shirts.
Sustainability
Renewable and biodegradable when untreated. Animal welfare (mulesing) and land use are the key questions, so look for certification.