Merino wool comes from Australian merino, a special breed of sheep bred in New Zealand. Merino is a particularly sought-after material in clothing for winter sports or outdoor activities. Thanks to its unique properties, merino wool provides, among other things, very good breathability and air circulation.
Merino sheep live in harsh mountain conditions, where temperatures reach 40°C in summer and drop to -20°C in winter. These sheep are adapted to the changing climate, which is key to the quality of merino wool. The wool is dense, but its fibres are thin and fine, so merino wool garments are very protective against the cold while still providing thermal comfort on hot days. On the one hand, merino fibres exhibit breathability, which protects against overheating, and on the other hand, they effectively insulate against cold and moisture.
One of the greatest advantages of merino clothing is its very good thermoregulation. The micro-structured spaces in the fibres mean that the wool maintains an optimal body temperature whatever the conditions. During intense exertion, merino thermal clothing wicks moisture to the outside, leaving the wearer feeling dry. Merino wool absorbs up to 35% of its weight in water, making it a very good material for underwear and sportswear, among other things.
Garments made from merino wool also have other advantages. Thanks to their antibacterial properties, such garments prevent unpleasant odours even during intensive exercise. It is also worth mentioning the flexibility and durability of merino clothing. The garment is resistant to stretching, which prevents it from losing its shape during use or washing.
Merino wool is resistant to dirt and other impurities, making it easy to clean. Merino underwear does not need to be washed after a small amount of exercise; simply hang it up and air it out. In addition, merino wool is flame resistant, does not melt when in contact with fire and exhibits self-extinguishing properties.
It is also important to remember to protect against UV radiation. Merino thermal clothing is a natural UPF 50 filter, making it a better choice than cotton, for example. Merino wool clothing is a very good choice for anyone who values comfort, safety and the additional functions of clothing during outdoor activities.
