An exceptional natural fiber for comfort, performance and durability

Merino wool is a premium natural fiber renowned for its exceptional softness, its ability to regulate body temperature, and its lasting comfort. Used in both technical garments and everyday wear, it stands out for its unique properties, making it one of the finest natural textiles in the world. This page explains everything you need to know about merino wool: its origin, its qualities, its uses, and the criteria for recognizing superior quality merino.

Merino wool comes from the Merino sheep, a breed known for producing extremely fine and even wool. Unlike traditional wool, Merino fiber is much softer, allowing it to be worn directly against the skin without causing irritation.

Originally, Merino sheep were raised primarily in Spain before spreading to Australia and New Zealand, which are now among the world's largest producers of Merino wool. Over time, genetic selection and breeding practices have resulted in an increasingly fine fiber, suitable for technical and high-end applications.

The process of transforming raw merino wool into finished garments is a complex one that requires expertise and know-how. The fiber is first sheared, then washed and carded to remove impurities. It is then spun into yarn, dyed if necessary, and finally knitted or woven to create the clothes we wear. Each step is crucial to preserving the fiber's exceptional properties.

Merino wool helps the body maintain a stable temperature. It insulates when it's cold and wicks away excess heat when it's warm. This thermoregulatory ability allows merino to be worn year-round, in a wide variety of weather conditions.

Thanks to the natural structure of the fiber, merino wool absorbs moisture and releases it gradually, which limits the feeling of dampness on the skin, even during prolonged exertion.

Merino wool has natural antibacterial properties. It limits the growth of odor-causing bacteria, allowing you to wear a garment longer between washes.

Merino vs. traditional wool

Traditional wool is thicker and stiffer. Merino, thanks to its fineness, offers significantly greater comfort and can be worn directly against the skin.

Merino wool vs. synthetic fibers

Synthetic fibers dry quickly, but often retain odors and offer limited thermoregulation. Merino wool, on the other hand, combines breathability, thermal comfort, and natural odor management.

Merino vs. cotton

Cotton absorbs moisture but dries slowly and cools the body when wet. Merino wool retains its insulating properties even when damp.

The fabric weight (grams per square meter) indicates the weight of the fabric. A lighter fabric weight is suitable for intense activities or mild temperatures, while a heavier fabric weight provides more warmth.

Discover: The weight of merino wool

The quality of a merino garment depends as much on the fiber itself as on how it is processed. Local and controlled manufacturing guarantees greater consistency and a superior finish.

How to care for merino wool

Merino wool requires little maintenance. Gentle washing in cold water with a suitable detergent is sufficient in most cases. Drying flat is recommended.

Making your merino wool clothes last

Thanks to its odor-fighting properties, it is possible to wash clothes less frequently, which prolongs their lifespan and reduces their environmental impact.