Wool has long been celebrated for its warmth, comfort, and durability. Indeed, humans have been processing, weaving, and wearing wool for over 10,000 years. However, certain myths and misconceptions about the material may mislead people about its true qualities. Let's uncover the real facts about wool – and what makes it a superior choice for clothing.
Myth 1: Wool is itchy and uncomfortable.
Fact: Not all wool is created equal. Coarse, poorly processed wool is made up of thicker fibers with rough edges, creating uncomfortable or itchy sensations when worn. High-quality Merino wool, on the other hand, is incredibly soft and comfortable against the skin.
Merino wool fibers have a lower micron count, meaning the diameter of the fiber is much finer than traditional wool. A low micron count is the most important factor in creating the smooth and luxurious feel of premium-grade wool, or any fabric for that matter.
To put things in perspective, your “grandpa’s itchy sweater” likely has a micron count (fiber diameter) of 20-30 micrometers or more; a luxury Merino wool sweater from SAINT CROIX has a count of 14. It might not sound like an enormous difference until you feel the contrast for yourself. When you do, you’ll easily understand why wool clothing is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, professionals, and athletes alike for its ultrasoft, itch-free wear.
Myth 2: Wool is only suitable for winter.
Fact: While wool is excellent at keeping you warm in cold weather, it's also surprisingly versatile. Wool fibers have natural properties that help regulate body temperature on both ends of the spectrum, keeping you cool in hot weather and warm in cold weather. This makes wool a great choice year-round, as it adapts to your body's needs no matter what climate you’re in.
Myth 3: Wool is difficult to care for.
Fact: Wool is actually quite low-maintenance. It's naturally stain-resistant, odor-resistant, and antimicrobial due to its inherent moisture-wicking properties. Merino wool can be worn multiple times without needing to be washed; simply airing it out between wears is usually sufficient to prevent unwanted odors or sweat absorption.
When a wool garment does need to be refreshed, dry cleaning is the preferred method. While some wool products may claim to be machine washable, this is likely only because the material used is low-quality or mixed with synthetic materials – so perhaps the consumer wouldn’t care if the item gets damaged in the wash!
The truth is that quality wool clothing is constructed of extremely delicate fibers that need to be handled with care. That being said, when appropriately maintained and kept out of washing machines, wool also has remarkable durability.
Myth 4: Wool is not durable.
Fact: With fibers withstanding up to 20,000 ‘bends’ before breaking, wool is one of the world's most durable and resilient natural fibers. The natural crimp in the structure of wool fibers allows them to stretch and then bounce back to their original shape, making wool garments resistant to wrinkles, sagging, and tears.
Wool clothing also typically lasts much longer than synthetic alternatives. With proper care, wool garments can maintain their quality and appearance for decades before showing any signs of breakdown. We see it regularly with our customers here at SAINT CROIX!
Myth 5: Wool is not suitable for people with allergies.
Fact: Contrary to reservations some might have, wool is hypoallergenic. The misconception is that many people mistakenly associate wool with lanolin, a waxy substance found in sheep's wool that can cause allergies in some individuals. However, modern wool processing removes most of the lanolin. Thus, high-quality wool is generally well-tolerated even by those with sensitive skin or allergies. Merino wool, in particular, is known for its gentle, non-irritating constitution.
Myth 6: Wool is not sustainable.
Fact: Wool is one of the most sustainable fibers available! Sheep produce wool annually, making it a renewable resource. And for those concerned about animal welfare, it’s important to note that shearing wool does not cause any pain or discomfort to the sheep.
Wool, as a natural fiber, is biodegradable and organically breaks down into the environment – unlike synthetics. Polyester, for example, is derived from fossil fuels and can remain in landfills for up to 200 years.
Wool garments have an incredibly long lifespan if properly cared for, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Additionally, wool is naturally fire-resistant, reducing the need for environmentally harmful chemical treatments.
Wool: The Superior Material for All-Purpose Wear
Wool stands out as a superior clothing material due to its natural comfort, versatility, durability, and sustainability. By debunking these common myths, we hope you now have a better appreciation of wool for what it truly is—an astounding fiber that not only keeps us warm but also keeps us cool, adapts to different climates, and lasts for years.
Whether you're looking for performance sportswear, cozy winter layers, or stylish everyday apparel, wool remains a timeless choice that combines tradition with modern innovation.
