Sierra Blogging Post Archives

Ever wondered what the difference is between wool and virgin wool? Between lambswool and cashmere? Cashmere and angora?

We thought so. That's why we created the Guide to Wool --- to address those very questions (and more). At Sierra Trading Post, we sell many different types of wool and we know firsthand how hard it is to keep them all straight. We even learned a few things while writing this guide!

In the Guide to Wool we take a look at the different kinds of wool and the characteristics that set them apart. Here's an excerpt from the guide...

What's So Great About Wool?

Wool is water resistant. The quality that distinguishes wool fibers from hair or fur is the presence of a hard, water-repellent outer layer that surrounds each hollow fiber, overlapping like shingles on a roof. The fiber's core absorbs up to 30% of its weight in moisture vapor without becoming damp or clammy, while the hard outer layer protects against outside liquid moisture. Water is repelled, but humidity is absorbed, and that helps with thermal regulation.

Wool is moisture wicking. Besides keeping outside moisture away from the skin, wool also wicks away perspiration. When you sweat, that sweat cools your skin—which is not what you want when it's cold outside. Wool fibers absorb perspiration and wick it away from your body, thus keeping you warm and dry.

Wool is a wonderful insulator. The crimp of the wool produces insulating air spaces that retain body heat. These warm air pockets next to the skin are kept dry while the hollow wool fibers absorb moisture vapors and the hard outer surface moves liquid moisture away from the body.

Wool regulates temperature and is breathable. Wool has a very wide comfort range, essential for adapting to changing weather conditions. This unique property makes wool the perfect fiber to be used in the production of outerwear, because it has the versatile ability to warm in colder conditions and cool in warmer conditions.

Wool blends well. Wool can be blended with many different natural and synthetic fibers to create a multitude of fabric options.
Keep reading...