Frequently asked questions about merino wool

Merino wool is a natural fiber obtained from merino sheep. It is much finer and softer than traditional wool, making it comfortable to wear directly against the skin. It also has a great balance of softness to durability. Merino wool is prized for its breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and temperature regulation.

No, merino wool is not itchy. Unlike traditional wool, merino fibers are very fine (measured in microns), making them soft and smooth against the skin. High-quality, superfine merino wool, such as thise used in Pinebury products, feels more like cotton or cashmere.

Yes! Merino wool is a natural insulator. It traps heat close to your body in cold weather while remaining breathable to prevent overheating. In warm weather, its moisture-wicking ability keeps you cool and dry.

Absolutely. Merino wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling damp. It pulls sweat away from your skin and releases it into the air, keeping you dry and comfortable during physical activity.

Yes, merino wool is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, running, and skiing. It is lightweight, breathable, odor-resistant, and temperature-regulating, making it ideal for layering and for active performance wear.

No, merino wool is naturally odor-resistant. Its fibers trap odor-causing bacteria and prevent them from multiplying. This means you can wear merino wool multiple times without washing, and it will still smell fresh.

Merino wool is easy to care for:

Wash: Use cold water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent.

Dry: Air dry flat, do not tumble dry

Storage: Fold rather than hang to maintain the garment’s shape.

Always check the care label for specific instructions.

Yes, merino wool is a renewable and biodegradable fiber. Sheep naturally regrow their fleece annually. High-quality merino wool, when ethically sourced, is an environmentally friendly choice compared to synthetic fibers.

Most people with sensitive skin find merino wool very comfortable. The fine fibers are soft, non-abrasive, and gentle on the skin, making it a great alternative to coarse traditional wool.

Merino wool is naturally strong and resilient. High-quality merino wool garments can last for years when properly cared for. Additionally, merino wool has natural elasticity, so it resists stretching and maintains its shape over time.

Merino wool outperforms synthetics in the following ways:

More breathable

Naturally odor-resistant

Temperature-regulating

Biodegradable and sustainable

While synthetic fabrics are sometimes cheaper, they lack the comfort, performance, and sustainability of merino wool.

Yes, merino wool is a year-round fiber. Its temperature-regulating properties make it ideal for both hot and cold conditions, ensuring comfort regardless of the season.

Yes, merino wool is suitable for warm weather. Its breathability and moisture-wicking properties help regulate body temperature, keeping you cool and dry even in higher temperatures. Pinebury's Summer Wool is engineered to perform best warm weather.

Merino wool can experience pilling, especially in high-friction areas. However, proper care and choosing high-quality merino products can minimize this issue. Nuyarn merino wool used in Pinebury products is less-likely to pill than conventional merino.

Yes, merino wool is excellent for summer. Its natural breathability and moisture-wicking properties help regulate body temperature, keeping you cool and dry even in hot and humid conditions. Merino wool absorbs sweat and releases it into the air, preventing a clammy feeling. Additionally, its odor-resistant qualities mean you can wear it for extended periods without worrying about smells.

Pinebury’s summer wool products, like our lightweight merino wool tees, hoodies, and socks, are designed to keep you comfortable during warm-weather adventures, offering performance and style in the heat. With UPF 40 sun protection

Merino wool continues to insulate even when damp, helping you stay warm in changing conditions. In contrast, cotton absorbs moisture but doesn’t wick it away from your skin. As a result, it holds onto sweat and water, making the fabric feel heavy, clingy, and cold when wet.

Merino wool offers several advantages over polyester and other synthetic fabrics, especially for cycling and outdoor performance. Unlike synthetics, merino is a natural fiber that’s breathable, moisture-wicking, and thermoregulating—it helps keep you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot. It also resists odor naturally, meaning you can wear it longer between washes without smelling. While synthetics trap sweat and odor over time, merino stays fresh and comfortable. And because it’s renewable, biodegradable, and less reliant on fossil fuels, merino is a more sustainable choice for those who care about performance and the planet.

5-10 years. With proper care, high-quality merino wool garments can last for many years. While merino is a natural fiber and not as abrasion-resistant as synthetics, its performance doesn’t fade over time. Washing gently, avoiding heat, and storing it properly will help extend its life. Our Nuyarn merino blend is specifically engineered to be stronger and more durable than traditional merino, offering better shape retention and resistance to wear.