Advantages of merino wool
What is merino wool?
For our knitwear collection, we use the best and most exclusive qualities of merino wool, a 100% natural material, which consists of wool from the merino sheep that previously lived in Europe, but today primarily lives in Australia, USA, and New Zealand. We have chosen to collaborate with a yarn spinner in Italy, where they have long experience in processing wool and are known for their high quality. This way, we ensure that the yarn and the individual knit sweater retain their grace and function for as long as possible.
Our merino wool is Oeko-Tex certified and completely free of synthetic fibers. It is not Superwash, meaning it has not been treated with chlorine or other harmful chemicals. The yarn is a 100% natural material that retains its luster, color, and strength even after years of use, and when the garment eventually needs to be discarded, it is 100% biodegradable. We work with dyed yarn, and in that process, chemicals as gentle as possible have been used. The process takes place in a closed system, thus considerably reducing the environmental impact. Our supplier, Zegna Baruffa, has their Sustainability reports freely available online.
Properties of Merino Wool
High-quality merino wool has a wide range of excellent properties. It is a very strong yarn, much stronger than most other types of wool yarn, thus achieving long durability. Other good properties include a high degree of breathability, a high degree of insulation, and an antibacterial function. Consider that merino wool is widely used by hikers, skiers, and other athletes. Merino wool is comfortable to wear even in very changing temperatures, and it has a self-cleaning function, meaning it needs to be washed far less often than cotton and synthetic materials.
Do you belong to those who think that merino wool itches?
If you are one of those who feel that wool itches when it touches your body, merino wool is one of the best types of wool you can use. The quality of wool is measured in microns. The unit denotes the diameter of the wool fiber in the yarn – the lower the micron count, the finer the wool. If the wool is of sufficiently high quality, you will thus avoid feeling itchy. The itching point is indicated at 28 microns; anything above that can cause itching, while anything below will most likely not be felt as itching. It naturally varies from person to person, and if you are outright allergic to wool, this probably also applies to merino wool. Merino wool is produced with a micron count typically between 17.5 and 24 – our merino is at 19.5 and has therefore become a favorite among people who often feel that wool itches.
See our collection of knit designs in delicious merino wool here .