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wool base layers

And Breathe! Why Wool is the Natural Choice

January 17, 2019 Tags: , , , , , , , No Comments

Do you ever find that sometimes the simplest solution is right there, under your nose? While scientists and researchers strive to develop ever-more innovative new fabrics and materials for fashion and interiors, we think the best and most natural choice is one that we’ve used and enjoyed for thousands of years: wool.

Not only is wool a more sustainable, biodegradable fabric than synthetics, it also works in harmony with your body. So you can stay comfortable, warm and cosy without overheating. The main reason that we don’t get unpleasantly hot (unlike when wearing some manmade fibres) with wool is that it allows your skin to breathe. In fact, it’s almost as if wool itself is breathing. Here’s how it works:

Wool’s natural absorbency

why wool lets your skin breathe

Wool has a very high absorbency, which means it wicks away sweat and moisture from the skin, keeping you dry and comfortable. This moisture is slowly released back into the air, meaning you avoid the chills and shivers that can occur after exercise when you start to cool off. As the body’s humidity reduces, the process of absorbing moisture creates warmth within the wool – it has been claimed that 1kg of dry wool can generate the same amount of heat as an electric blanket heated for eight hours!

By releasing warm moisture into the air, rather than allowing it to stick to the skin, wool helps regulate your body temperature. As moisture is released and heat is generated, the ensuing evaporation cools the body.

Insulating properties

wool base layers thermals

Because the fibres in wool are crimped, they trap air in tiny pockets. This creates an insulating layer, which is why wool is not only great for clothing and blankets, but also makes excellent wall insulation in the home. This is why wool is often found in jackets or used to create fine undergarments for people in extreme or changeable temperatures, like mountain climbing.

Odour resistance

Another amazing quality of woollen fabrics, according to azithromycin.net is the anti-microbial function. Thanks to wool’s ability to release moisture back into the air more quickly and effectively than many synthetics, sweat doesn’t stick around long enough for bacteria to form. Which means no unpleasant odours, just a fresh feeling. Whether you’re skiing at altitude or riding the rush hour commute, choosing wool means you’ll stay just the right temperature.

So, whether you’re looking for a lightweight base layer, a wool scarf for winter, or want to find a cosy wool throw to hunker down on chilly evenings, wool is the natural choice. From finest luxurious cashmere to sumptuously soft merino wool, there’s a good reason why humans have loved and used wool throughout history. It’s not only temperature-regulating, it’s also easy to care for. Simply follow the care instructions on each garment, dry flat and out of sunlight, and gently remove any pilling. If looked after properly your woollen blankets and clothing will last for years, keeping you cosy and comfortable whatever the weather – and life – may throw at you.

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5 Reasons Why Wool is Not Just for Winter

April 13, 2018 Tags: , , , , , , , 1 Comment

Despite the seemingly endless winter there are definite signs that Spring is afoot: tulips and primroses dotting gardens and lanes, longer evenings, ducklings paddling along behind their mamas, loud and joyful birdsong, and when the sun does shine there’s a power to it that just isn’t there in winter. It might seem like the time to be packing away your woollen blankets and clothes, storing them carefully for the Autumn. But don’t rush for the suitcases and packing bags just yet. Wool is not just for Winter.

Here are 5 reasons why we love wool in the Spring and Summer too:

1.Chilly evenings

Even late into Spring the evenings can still have a chill in the air. Once the central heating goes off and you’ve burned all your firewood it can be lovely to reach for a cosy woollen blanket as you read in bed, or curl up on the sofa in front of a movie. A natural wool throw will help you make this transition from fully heated house to flinging open the windows, keeping you warm when it’s time to hunker down.

2.Outdoor adventures

spring wool throw

As Spring gets underway we start planning camping trips and picnic outings. A wool throw is never far from hand on these outdoor adventures, whether used as an extra layer over a sleeping bag, or as the base for a casual picnic with friends. And woolly socks are pretty much essentials if you are sleeping outdoors as they will keep your feet toasty all night long, which means you will sleep better. Wool helps to regulate body temperature and wicks moisture away from your body, meaning you won’t wake up sweaty and overheated.

3.Stylish interiors

A less-than pristine sofa or chair can be given a new lease of life with the simple addition of a wool throw. Choose contrasting colours to make a statement, or opt for something neutral that adds a note of muted texture and tone. If you don’t want the expense of re-upholstering a chair, a throw is a great way to get the look you want at a fraction of the price. And if you change your mind in the future you can simply use the throw elsewhere and replace it with something new.

4.Sporty layers

merino wool base layer

Merino wool is much-loved by sportspeople, from runners to cyclists, hikers to climbers. Thanks to its superfine yarn it can be spun into lightweight layers that are ideal for wearing as a base layer, providing some extra warmth but with no extra bulk. Wool is anti-bacterial and moisture-wicking so you will feel fresh and dry, and if there is a sudden downpour it will keep the rain off you while you dash for shelter.

5.Getting crafty

wool yarn spring summer - why wool ?

Now might be the time to take up a new craft or hobby, like knitting or crochet. These crafts are easy to learn and can be very relaxing. You can take your project with you wherever you go too, from the bus ride to work to sitting in a children’s play area watching your kids. Natural wool is a great basis for simple garments like scarves and cushion covers, and once you’ve honed your skills you can use the huge range of different woollen yarns to create beautiful handmade items that you – and others- will really treasure.

So, whilst it might be a good time to retire your chunky woollen sweaters, don’t rush to pack away the wool. There’s plenty more use for those wool throws, cosy socks, fine base layers and balls of yarn yet.

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