Natural wool has a number of unique properties that make it indispensable for the production of clothing both for everyday wear and for sports. Among all possible types of wool, merino wool, or, as it is also called, merino wool, stands out.
History of the breed
Merino wool is obtained from a special breed of fine-wool sheep. The name of the breed is derived from the Spanish word "merino". The largest population of this breed is in Australia.
The breed is of Spanish origin and its history dates back to the 12th century. Until the 18th century, the export of merino sheep from Spain was punishable by death. Only in 1723, several sheep were first exported outside the country.
In Russia, merino dogs appeared much later, and their breeding began only in the 19th century. Then several types of merino were bred: electoral, infantado, negretti, rambouille. These breeds were brought from other countries. And local sheep breeders bred such breeds as Russian Infantado, Mazayevsky and New Caucasian merino.
Characteristics of merino wool
The climate of Australia is unique, which favorably affects the quality of the merino wool bred on this continent.
Australian merino wool is distinguished by high quality combed wool, the fiber thickness of which is only 15-25 microns. Despite such a small indicator of thread thickness, the yarn from this wool is particularly durable. In addition, it has a number of unique properties.
Firstly, merino wool is hygroscopic, that is, it has high moisture absorption. It is able to absorb so much moisture that its amount will be 30% of its own weight. At the same time, the product made of merino wool not only remains dry, but also continues to warm its owner.
Secondly, merino wool is surprisingly dirt-resistant. The structure of the fiber is so springy that it repels foreign substances and is cleaned with an elementary shaking.
Thirdly, the merino wool is incredibly warm. This is due to the fact that in structure it is twisted fibers, between which an air space is formed.
In addition, merino wool has the ability to build up protection against unpleasant odors. The creatine contained in its fibers has a destructive effect on bacteria, and in addition creates an unfavorable environment for the survival of microscopic insects and bacteria.
Merino wool types
Merino wool is usually distinguished by the thickness of the fiber. The cost of raw materials also varies from this indicator.
The thinnest merino thread is called “summer” and is marked as “Golden Bale”, which means “golden bale”. This is the most elite type of filament, its thickness is only 14, 5-16 microns.
In second place is the wool of the line "Extra Fine", the so-called "graceful". It is also extra thin, but its thickness is 16-17 microns.
Closes the line with wool of the "Super Fine" brand, that is, "the thinnest" - its thickness is 18-19 microns.
