History and Benefits of Merino Wool Hunting Clothes
Interested in a hunting clothing fabric that lasts? Merino wool has a long history as the ideal base layer for hunters.
Merino wool garments have long been favored by those who know that quality clothing counts. The Merino sheep produces a finer, tougher wool that protects you from the cold. As a result, hunters have turned to merino garments as a base layer, underlayer, and even for body warming and fleeces.
Merino wool is accepted as the number one choice in freezing weather hunting gear – but what is it that makes it so special? We wanted to take a moment and reflect on the history and benefits of this ergonomic natural fiber, to help those young hunters understand why it’s so sought after.
The History of Merino Wool
Merino wool first came from Spain, where the breed of sheep was perfected for the good qualities of their wool. Through selective breeding and careful management, these Royally kept flocks of sheep developed finer and finer wool. The royal families of Span have bred these sheep ever since the 12th century. Researchers believe that before this, the original flocks were imported by the Moors.
Although originally jealously guarded for royal use, the years and years of breeding has seen the merino sheep exported all over the world. The Merino sheep is the base breed for many a cross-bred flock. You can read a study on how extensive Merino flocks have become that was conducted over in New Zealand.
The sheep itself is a large animal, made larger by many folds in its skin. When you shave the sheep, it looks rather like a pug’s skin. This means the fleece is always crimped when you remove it, adding to the interlocking system of the fine fibers.
The Merino wool garment is perfect for the hunter because it is made of those interlocking fibers. They are so fine that they instinctively tangle. This material won’t tug or tear or rip when you are moving through undergrowth. Things will get stuck in it, sure, but they will break, not the garment. That’s only one of the many reasons hunters regard merinos as the best in show.
How to Care for your Merino Wool Hunting Clothes?
Whether you do take our advice and use merino for hunting clothing, or whether you just use it as a soft, fleecy fabric for everyday wear, you will need to know how to look after it. This type of wool requires specific care to extend the life of the garments. You can see this guide on caring for merino wool for further information.
The Benefits of Merino Wool Hunting Clothing
So, now we know the history behind it and how to take care of it, let’s reflect on the benefits of wearing merino wool as hunting clothing. We have listed the best benefits for the hunter out in the field, below.
It Doesn’t Rip
As we discussed above, Merino wool doesn’t rip or tear as easily as other materials. This adds to the durability it is famous for.
It’s Long Lasting
You will only ever have to buy one or two superior quality merino wool base layers in your life. One or two wool vests will last you for decades if you take proper care of them. Those interlocking fine fibers are strong long lasting and can endure multiple hand washes.
It’s Odor Resistant
Merino wool repels moisture, keeping your skin free of perspiration in a way that doesn’t cause a stink [i]. You only need to hand wash it every three or four wears because of this, and because of its natural anti-microbial features.
It’s Bacteria Resistant
Merino wool will keep the bacteria off your skin. Sheep have natural resistances to bacteria because of the oils in their fleece. Using Merino gives you the benefit of this resistance.
It’s Warm
Lastly, when you are out in the mountains in the snow, you will be glad you’re wearing Merino Wool.
Take our advice and follow up with some superior quality gear. You will only need to buy a merino vest once.