Merino wool is wool from the merino sheep. Merino wool generally has finer fibres than many other types of wool and therefore often feels softer. How warm and airy it wears also depends on the yarn and knit structure.
Where merino wool comes from
The merino sheep originally comes from Spain. Today it lives mainly in New Zealand and Australia. The sheep has a particularly fine fleece. That fineness determines how the wool feels on the skin.
Coarser wool fibres feel more irritating to some people. Finer merino fibres are more flexible and therefore often feel softer.
The properties at a glance
| Property | What it means | In practice |
|---|---|---|
| Soft | Fine fibre | Often feels softer than coarser wool |
| Warm | The fibre traps air | Thin knitwear that still insulates |
| Breathable | Can absorb moisture | Can stay comfortable when temperatures change |
| Fresh | Between wears it can often be aired first | Air it first and then judge whether washing is needed |
| Resilient | The fibre has natural resilience | Can spring back relatively well |
Why merino suits clothing
Merino wool can absorb moisture, and changes in temperature can feel comfortable. How warm the garment is depends mainly on thickness, yarn and knit structure.
A good example is the Trenton open polo in black. It is made of 100% merino wool. You wear it loose under a jacket or under a cardigan. The open cut makes it easy to combine.
Merino next to other types of wool
Not every woollen jumper is merino. The Maximilian wool cardigan in beige is made of 100% wool. The Augusta open-knit polo in cream consists of 90.2% wool and 9.8% cashmere. Both are warm and have a refined look.
Do you want to know when cashmere suits? Then read our page about cashmere. More about the type of wool itself is on the page about merino wool.
An alternative without wool
Do you have sensitive skin, or do you prefer not to wear animal fibres? Then look at lyocell. The Edmund fine-knit polo with quarter zip in charcoal is made of 100% lyocell. It feels smooth and drapes beautifully.
When merino suits best
Merino can be worn in several seasons. In warmer weather the comfort depends on the thickness and personal preference.
In the office merino is practical. A fine merino knit is compact to take with you. Pack it carefully and air it first after wearing.
Merino or cashmere
Both fibres are soft, but they differ. Merino and cashmere differ in fibre, feel and care. Which suits best depends on yarn, construction and use.
Pilling and moths
All wool can pill. In places where clothing rubs, such as under the arms, small balls form. Use only a suitable de-pilling tool and work carefully. Do not pull the balls off.
Clothes moth larvae can damage animal fibres, especially if clothing is stored undisturbed for a long time. Store wool clean and dry and check regularly.
How to care for merino wool in five steps
- Air the polo first after wearing and wash only when necessary.
- Wash only according to the care label of the specific garment.
- Use a suitable wool detergent if that is advised and dose according to the packaging.
- Remove excess water carefully and follow the instructions on the care label.
- Dry according to the care label. Many merino knits are dried flat to limit stretching.
The full explanation is on the care instructions page. Much fine knitwear keeps its shape better if it is stored folded. Cedar or lavender is no replacement for clean storage and regular checks for moths.
How to wear merino in an outfit
A merino polo is versatile. Wear it under a blazer with trousers for the office. Wear it loose with jeans for the weekend. The open cut of the Trenton shows what you wear underneath. Choose a white T-shirt for a fresh look or a shirt for a formal one.
The wool cardigan goes on top. The Maximilian cardigan has a business cut. That means you can also wear it under a coat. It gives warmth to the torso without making the sleeves thick.
Misunderstandings about wool
Not everyone experiences wool the same way. Fine merino feels softer to many people than coarser wool. Others think wool is only for winter. A thin merino polo can also be worn in spring. Woollen clothing does not need to be washed after every wear if it is still clean and fresh.
How to recognise quality
For quality, look at yarn, knit structure, finish and seams. Softness or resilience alone does not say enough about the overall quality.
What to look for when buying
- Label. Look at the percentage of merino wool. 100% merino wool means there are no other fibres in the composition; that in itself says nothing about the overall quality.
- Knit. A fine knit can feel smoother and more compact than a coarser knit structure.
- Fit. Use the size chart and the size advice of the specific model.
- Use. Choose material based on use, feel and care that suit you.
You will find all knitted pieces at knitwear for Men and knitwear for Women.
Shop the look
Trenton: open polo of merino wool, black
Augusta: open-knit polo of wool and cashmere, cream
Maximilian: wool cardigan with business cut, beige
Edmund: fine-knit polo with quarter zip, charcoal
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between merino wool and ordinary wool?
Merino wool generally has finer fibres than many other types of wool and therefore often feels softer.
Is merino wool itchy?
That differs per person. Merino often feels softer than coarser wool, but sensitive skin can still react.
Can merino wool go in the washing machine?
Only if the care label allows it. Always follow the stated programme, temperature and drying method.
What if a garment does not fit?
If a garment does not fit, check the current return conditions on the returns page.
