Merino Wool
Sustainable merino wool
Our fine merino wool garments we partner with ZQ, the world’s leading ethical wool producer. Our certified ZQ Merino is ethical, sustainable and completely traceable through the production process right back to the farm where the wool is sourced. Our heavy gauge Merino collection we have partnered with UPW, one of the leaders in innovation for sustainable yarns. UPW are a socially responsible company with a true commitment to environmental protection and sustainability, throughout the production process.
Making strides in the sustainable fashion world and ensuring our support of environmental protection, animal welfare and resources, we’ve partnered with two of the most reputable names in Merino Wool supply: ZQ and UPW.
By partnering with UPW, we’re able to ensure our Merino Wool is sustainable as they hold many sustainaibilty certifications including RWS, ICCAW (International Cooperation Committee of Animal Welfare) and Oekotex standard 100. Most excitingly, UPW have achieved their Carbon Neutral Certification for the yarn we source from them, meaning all Merino yarn we use from them going forward will be completely carbon neutral.
Our reputation is built upon our unwavering commitment to excellence and environmental responsibility, evident in our meticulous choice of materials and trusted suppliers. We proudly set a benchmark in the industry with our commitment to a transparent supply chain and the sourcing of ethically produced Merino Wool. Opting for our knitwear allows you to wear and embrace your values and actively contribute to a more responsible fashion industry.
What is Merino wool?
Merino Wool comes from merino sheep, a breed that is famed for having super soft and fine wool, making it comfortable to wear against the skin.
Merino sheep have wool that naturally has a longer fibre length which makes it stronger and more durable. Having a natural crimp to it, Merino Wool stretches easily, trapping the air and making the garments knitted with it loftier.
The Unique Qualities of Merino Wool
Merino Wool has many qualities making it a superior material for knitwear clothing, its benefits include:
- Keeping you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot
- Moves moisture away from the body
- It has natural fire resistance
- It doesn’t have an odour when worn multiple times in a row, it can be aired to keep it fresh instead of frequent washing
- It has a natural UV of SPF40+
- It takes colour really well
- It’s organic and relatively biodegradable, making it a more sustainable clothing material
Merino Wool vs Regular Wool
Softer and finer than regular wool, Merino Wool can be made into more lightweight and intimate garments.
FAQs
How is Merino Wool farmed?
Ensuring that our Merino Wool is cruelty-free and sustainable, it comes from non-mulesed sheep and from farms that have been closely vetted for the five freedoms of the animals:
- Freedom from hunger and thirst
- Freedom from discomfort
- Freedom from pain, injury, and disease
- Freedom from fear and distress
Where is Merino Wool farmed?
Merino Wool comes from Australia mainly but also New Zealand, South Africa, Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay.
How is Merino Wool sourced?
We make sure we use suppliers who have the appropriate sustainability certifications like RWS and ICCAW and have a track record of sustainable practices. We work hard to build and maintain personal relationships with our quality suppliers, who are at the forefront of environmental and animal welfare initiatives.
Is Merino Wool comfortable on sensitive skin?
The softest of wools, Merino Wool is suited to sensitive skin and shouldn’t cause irritation.
Does Merino Wool shrink in the wash?
Merino Wool can easily shrink when washed. This can be avoided by properly washing and caring for your Merino Wool clothing. Although specially treated to avoid shrinking, we recommend avoiding machine washing and instead hand wash your Merino Wool pieces, preserving the feel and softness of the wool.
Each of our Merino products have been individually tested by INTERTEK, an independent and international testing service which provides optimum care instructions for each Merino product.
How can I recognise genuine Merino Wool products?
Our Merino Wool products will be labelled MERINO, EXTRAFINE MERINO and SUPERFINE MERINO, depending on the fibre thickness. This is called the micron.
How do I care for Merino Wool items?
We recommend hand washing your Merino Wool items to preserve their quality. Take a look at our care guide by Ayten for more information on caring for Merino Wool.
Is Merino Wool hypoallergenic?
Yes, Merino Wool is famed for its suitability for sensitive skin, and it’s often used in babywear.