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The advantages and disadvantages of merino wool for outdoor clothing
Merino wool is a popular material for outdoor clothing, known for its soft texture and excellent thermoregulation properties. But how well does it really work? Find out about the pros and cons of merino wool in this article.
The advantages: Naturally soft and warm
High-quality new wool has several advantages for outdoor clothing. Firstly, it is a natural material that is obtained from the fur of merino sheep and is therefore biodegradable.
Secondly, it is very soft and non-scratchy, making it a good choice for people with sensitive skin. This quality also makes the wool a popular option for functional underwear that sits close to the body.
Thirdly, merino wool has excellent thermo-regulating properties that allow the body to keep warm in cold weather and stay cool in warm weather. The material also has the ability to wick moisture away from the skin, meaning it dries quickly and keeps your body warm in wet conditions. Finally, merino is considered odour-resistant, which is a great advantage, especially during strenuous activities.
The disadvantages: Sensitive and more expensive than synthetics
Although merino wool offers many advantages, there are also some disadvantages that need to be considered.
One of the biggest disadvantages is that it is more expensive than synthetic materials. Merino wool is also more difficult to care for as it is more sensitive to heat, moisture and friction.
The extraction of the material is also a constant focus of attention. Although there are now very high standards for the protection of animal welfare, the issue remains controversial in some circles. For this reason, recycled wool is becoming increasingly popular.
In addition, many allergy sufferers cannot tolerate merino wool products, which is why they prefer to use alternatives.
Another disadvantage is that it is less resistant to wear and tear than synthetic materials, which means that merino products often have to be replaced more quickly. To avoid this, manufacturers are increasingly focussing on material blends that combine the best of merino and synthetics.