Merino Wool
It wasn’t a tough decision to use this wonderful 100% natural resource to create our products. It is unique in that it absorbs odor caused by bacteria. By trapping that smell and keeping it from building, it will hold those unappreciated scents at bay. After days on the trail, we all know how important this really is! Its superb ability to absorb moisture and dry quickly is also a critical attribute. Its soft texture and breathability along with the temperature-regulating qualities of Merino will keep you comfortable for hours. Most beneficial of all, Merino wool is renewable. One sheep can grow 4-5 lbs of wool every year! Statistics also show that with the right oxygen, warm temperature and humidity levels, Merino wool will biodegrade within a year if composted. We love this natural fabric and believe you will too!
What Are the Characteristics of Merino Wool?
Merino wool is an extremely prized and luxurious fabric, as there are many benefits of merino wool.
• WARM: Wool is a great insulator, as the fiber’s natural crimp, the waviness of the wool fiber, traps pockets of air, which provides resistance against cold temperatures.
• WATER RETENTION: Merino wool is absorbent and can absorb up to 30 percent of its weight in water before it feels wet.
• DURABLE: As a natural fiber, merino wool is inherently very strong, as the individual fibers interlock as a result of the protein structure. The fiber’s natural crimp also adds elasticity and strength.
• BREATHABLE: Merino wool has great breathability because the wool is able to absorb and evaporate moisture. Because of its breathable nature, merino is a great fiber for regulating body temperature making it a perfect base layer for outdoor activities.
• COOLING: Merino wool stores moisture in its fibers. As that moisture evaporates, it creates a natural cooling mechanism and helps regulate body heat.
• MOISTURE-WICKING: Like some synthetic fibers, merino wool also has the ability to wick moisture away from the skin. This is because of the wool’s amazing absorption and breathable qualities.
• SOFT: Since merino wool fibers are finer than any other sheep fibers, they are extremely soft to the touch.
• ODOR-RESISTANT: Merino wool has antimicrobial properties, as the natural lanolin in the sheep’s wool repels odor-causing bacteria. Since merino wool manages moisture so well, there is no wet environment for that bacteria to grow.
The Origins of Merino Wool
Merino flocks originated in southwestern Spain in the twelfth century, and the ewes were bred in the region for many years, contributing to the local economy through the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, as Spain had a monopoly on the trade. Merino sheep breeds were first brought to Australia in 1797, and selective breeding of merino wool sheep in Australia led to an even finer version of the wool called Australian merino. Today, most of the world’s merino wool still comes from Australia and New Zealand
Washing Instructions
After weeks of hiking and an occasional dip in the nearest creek, use a mild (preferably wool) detergent with your machine set to hand wash. Lay flat to dry. (Hanging completely wet woolens to dry is not advised-this may result in stretching out of shape)
