Wool is a natural fiber obtained from the shearing of various animals, such as sheep, goats, camels, alpacas, and rabbits.
A wool garment has several properties, such as warmth, breathability, elasticity, and durability.
However, not all wools are the same. There are different types of wool, depending on the animal of origin, the part of the body from which it is sheared, the fineness, length, and softness of the fibers.
Among the various qualities of sheep wool, one of the most prized and sought-after is merino wool. This yarn comes from the fleece of merino sheep, a fine breed originally from Spain and later spread to Australia and New Zealand. The difference between wool and merino wool lies in some particular characteristics, which make the latter suitable for different uses and seasons. Let's see what the main differences between wool and merino wool are:
- Fineness: merino wool is a very fine wool, with fiber diameters ranging from 15 to 24 microns, compared to 25-45 microns for average wool. This makes this textile fiber soft to the touch and highly prized.
This means that merino wool is lighter, softer, and less scratchy than common wool fiber, and it does not cause itching or skin irritation.
The fineness of merino wool also depends on the area of the sheep's body from which it is sheared: the finest part is the neck and shoulder, while the coarser part is the back and legs.
- Thermoregulation: merino wool has a particular structure, formed by overlapping scales that create air chambers between the fibers. These air chambers allow merino wool to adapt to temperature variations, maintaining a constant body temperature. A unique sensation when in contact with the skin.
This is possible because merino wool absorbs or releases excess heat depending on environmental conditions. Moreover, merino wool is fire-resistant and does not melt or ignite when in contact with flames.
- Breathability: merino wool can absorb moisture up to 30% of its weight without becoming wet or heavy. This means merino wool keeps the skin dry and prevents the formation of bacteria and bad odors. Additionally, merino wool dries quickly, which is useful in case of rain or sweating.
- Ecology: merino wool is an ecological and biodegradable fiber, as it comes from a renewable source and does not require harmful chemical treatments or dyes.
Merino wool is also ethical if it comes from farms that respect animal welfare and do not practice mulesing, which is the removal of a flap of skin from live animals in the peri-anal area to prevent parasite infestations.
For these reasons, merino wool is superior to other fibers, offering comfort, protection, and breathability, adapting to different climatic conditions and seasons.
High-quality merino wool can be used to make clothing, blankets, rugs, and other products, which stand out for their beauty and quality.
