What is Merino Wool? | Merino Wool 101

Learn all about this amazing fabric, what makes it special and why is the ideal travel companion. Plus, learn some useful tips on proper care for Merino Wool!

What exactly is Merino Wool?

Baa Baa Merino Sheep ~ Merino Wool is actually a type of natural fibre grown and harvested from Merino Sheep! Originating in Spain, Merino Sheep can now be found in Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Chile, South Africa and Uruguay. These special sheep typically have their "haircut" once every year and the wool collected to form the basis of Merino Wool harvesting.

The wool itself is mainly composed of Keratin (yes the same stuff our hair and nails are made of too). This makes Merino Wool a completely renewable & sustainable material compared to synthetics which are produced from non-organic materials.

Benefits of using Merino Wool

Keeping it au naturel - As mentioned, Merino wool is a completely natural and renewable material! This also means that it's 100% biodegradable. Did you know that if you leave Merino wool on the ground, it will be completely returned to mother earth in about a year?

Warm UP - Merino wool also has amazing properties in helping you regulate your body temperature. It traps air and insulates heat in colder weather, and wicks away sweat to help you stay cool and dry in warmer climates!

Odours? What Odours?! - On top of everything else, Merino wool is also excellent at keeping odours at bay. This allows you to wear Merino wool even for long periods of time without having to worry about any unpleasant smells.

How do i take proper care of Merino Wool?

With all the amazing qualities that Merino wool has to offer, you would think that it's so precious and a hassle to properly care for. We're here to tell you that it's as simple as it can be!

Just follow these simple steps:

1. Inspect and spot clean any stubborn stains
2. Turn the items inside-out
3. Machine or Hand-wash in warm/cool water
4. Leave them to air-dry, tumble-dry on low if you're using a dryer.

When in doubt always consult the clothing labels, and remember not to dry-clean items made of this special material.

Our favourite Merino Wool picks!

Merino Wool can be found in a host of different clothing items. Let us share with you our favourite picks and uses for this amazing fabric!

Base Layers

Going on a multi-day hiking adventure?

Merino wool is an exceptional material for base layers in cold weather due to its natural insulation, moisture-wicking properties, and softness. It keeps you warm, dry, and comfortable, making it perfect for staying cozy in chilly conditions.

Shop Merino Wool Base Layers
T-shirts

Cut down on the t-shirts you need on a hiking vacation.

Merino wool T-shirts are perfect for travel and outdoor activities, allowing you to cut down on multiple pieces of clothing. Thanks to their natural odour resistance you can wear them longer without washing, saving space and packing light!

Shop Merino Wool T-shirts
Multi-position Headband

One headwear to rule them all!

Using Merino wool in a multi-purpose Beanie-Neckwarmer-Balaclava combo makes perfect sense. Protecting your head/neck from chilly winds and harmful UV on longer treks. With it's ability to not smell (so soon at least), this will be the only piece of headgear you need.

Shop Merino Wool Headband

Written by: norarfah zakaria

Sport leader (hiking), decathlon bedok

“Merino wool may be expensive but if you think about its advantages, it is definitely worth it to invest in one!”

More winter articles you might like

How to choose the Best pair of Winter Boots | Decathlon Sports Advice

Looking for some winter boots or shoes for your winter holiday? Here are tips and tricks on choosing the best pair to suit you!

How to Layer for Your Winter Trip | Decathlon Sports Advice

Thicker doesn't always mean better. Learn more about layering effectively so you can stay warm on your winter holiday!

What is a Fleece Jacket? | Decathlon Sports Advice

Learn more about what fleece jackets are, and determine whether they are the right mid-layer to bring for your winter trip!

How to wash your down jackets | Decathlon Sports advice

We know that putting a ski jacket in the washing machine can be stressful. Don't panic! You can clean it without damaging the feather filling. Be careful not to clean your jacket too often or you might damage it.

How to wash your winter clothing | Decathlon Sports advice

Are you stalling in front of your washing machine when it comes to cleaning your ski suit? Hand or machine wash, temperature, drying, ... Here’s all you need to know about washing your ski suit.

7 Essential Cold Wear to Stay Warm when Traveling in Winter

7 Winter essentials you can't live without | Decathlon Sports Advice

Booked your next winter trip? Here are 7 cold wear essentials you cannot leave without!