Wool explained

Wool is everything you'd expect from a modern fibre. Wool's got natural stretch and breathability. It moves when you do, keeps you warm when it's cold and cool when it's hot and adds natural comfort around the home. It's also fire resistant.

Why are some people allergic to wool?
You can't be allergic to wool any more than you can be allergic to your own hair. To avoid irritation, don't wear hairy, woollen fabrics next to the skin. Choose a worsted fabric or a wool blend. Look for the Pure Merino Wool label.

What's the difference between a woollen and a worsted wool?
It's the length of the fibres. Woollens are made with shorter fibres that stand up from the surface and give the fabric a hairy touch. Worsteds are made with longer fibres which produce a surface that's smooth to the touch and comfortable next to the skin.

Why is wool sometimes blended with other fibres?
Fibres such as nylon or rayon are often blended with wool to add a novelty quality or decorative effect. But it's important to know that the wool in this type of blend gives up none of its positive characteristics.

Doesn't wool have to be lined to be comfortable?
Wool can be more comfortable unlined because it breathes and takes moisture away from the body. Lining material is synthetic and can't breathe the way natural wool does.

Does the wool season last beyond fall/autumn and winter?
Yes. Wool is and can be worn at least ten months of the year in perfect comfort due to its natural climate control. It keeps you cool in the warmer months just as it keeps you warm in the winter.

What should I look for in warmer seasons?
Look for worsted wools, either woven or knit, in lighter weights. Stay with neutral colour stories that can take you from fall to spring. Choose lighter hues to reflect the sun's heat in the warmer months. Lighter weight wool, such as tropical worsted/Merino Extrafine/Super 100's, fabrics of choice for comfort and good looks during warmer weather.

Are finer, lighter wools too fragile for long time wear?
No. Remarkably, wool retains its tensile strength and resistance to pilling even in the finest, lightest weights. So it may seem delicate when in fact it is deceptively durable.

What is Merino wool?
Merino wool is made of the finest grades of wool from Merino sheep, grades of 23 micron or finer. It is prized for being very soft and comfortable against the skin. Extrafine Merino is a super premium wool used in men's suiting of the highest quality knits.

What is Shetland?
Very fine, lustrous wool from the down soft undercoat of Shetland sheep, raised on the Shetland Islands off the northern coast of Scotland. Available in limited quantities of natural colours and used to make soft knitwear, sportswear, and coats. The term has been used rather loosely by the apparel industry to describe similar fabrics and clothing, especially sweaters, made from coarser types of wool.

What is lambswool?
Fine, soft wool from the first shearing of a lamb, usually when it is about seven months old.

Wool and the Australian economy
The wool industry is vital to the Australian economy and the world's clothing industry. Australia is the world’s largest producer of wool, producing 27% of the world’s greasy wool in 2005/2006. Australian wool exports were valued at $2.64 billion in 2005/2006.

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