Why settle for artificial fiber when nature can offer naturally durable socks? Over the years, merino wool socks have never failed to give you the benefits of their moisture-wicking capacity, regulated body temperature, and deodorization. You might think twice since you may say that this wool is a little expensive, but rest assured that each penny counts and is worth the price.
The production process of merino wool socks involves a high-density knitting process, with ultimate field test processes, making them long-lasting and durable. It has natural elastic components, preventing it from bagging and sagging, and can survive extreme weather conditions.
The durability of merino wool socks can even withstand temperatures ranging from -20 C° up to +35 C°. Merino wool is the natural temperature regulating coverings of merino sheep, and the same applies when humans are using merino wool.
Merino wool can bend back onto itself 20,000 times without breaking. With the modern-day spinning process, there is no comparison between merino wool's natural fibre compared to modern-day synthetic materials.
Merino wool is very durable because it has high tensile strength allowing it to withstand more pressure before it breaks or ruptures. Multiple weaving and knitting processes during production add to its strength and durability. When wet, merino wool has low tensile strength, therefore never ring out or pull when wet.
Moreover, the finishing stages of merino wool production include immersing the wool in a water solution to prevent it from shrinking. To fully know and understand what makes merino wool durable, consider reading more pieces of information below.
The excellent wool fibers of merino wool are what make it durable. Merino wool is shredded from merino sheep; if you study its purpose, it is naturally used by merino sheep to protect them. It is used to protect them from UV rays, abrasions, weather, and antibacterial, and if a human uses merino wool, the same protection and benefits apply.
In addition, some merino wool is blended with other synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester to add synthetic durability to the wool. The blend of synthetic materials added to merino wool depends.
Some would add 20% of synthetic material to add durability to merino while keeping it breathable. However, some manufacturers would add 50% synthetic material to merino wool to add more durability, though it will destroy its breathability component.
Blending merino wool with synthetic garments can add durability to merino wool. However, it destroys the natural wicking capacity and breathability of merino wool. You may be questioning if what's the point of ruining the natural ability of merino wool.
Well, various companies have different goals and purposes; they may want to produce durable merino wool garments and not breathable merino wool that offers comfort on your feet. You can still choose your preference since the components can be seen in tags when purchasing.
Like other types of wool, merino wool has natural lanolin in its wool fiber. Lanolin is a wax-like coating that covers every strand of merino wool. Lanolin protects the skin of merino sheep against abrasions, harsh weather conditions and helps repel the water. These properties of merino wool make it durable and long-lasting.
The natural properties of lanolin that the merino sheep are producing are ideal for lubricating, polishing, and waterproofing. Suppose the merino wool is naturally polished and is waterproof.
In that case, water is less likely to attach to it making it durable because when a fabric absorbs more water, it is easily destroyed. Due to the natural properties of merino wool, we humans enjoy naturally made durable products.
After shredding the merino wool from the merino sheep, it will undergo various production processes before becoming the merino fabric. This process includes multiple steps to strengthen and lengthen the merino wool, making it durable.
The production process series includes drawing out, twisting, and binding the fibers to add strength and length to them. Moreover, weaving and knitting are performed using a mechanical loom to get a smooth and consistent fabric.
In addition to that, the production also includes soaking the merino wool fabric into the water to interlock the fibers to avoid shrinking. The set of multiple processes gives added strength to the material, making it last long, durable, and can perform at its extreme performance.
There are various ways of knitting merino wool; it varies in densities; it can be done thinner or thicker. The thicker the density, the more durable it is. Garments that are thicker are more durable than lightweight materials.
Though lightweight and thick merino wool can last long, the thicker one has an edge. Moreover, you prefer what to choose, since you need to worry about its insulation capacity since it can adapt to the changing of weather conditions, though you may use the thin or thick one.
Merino wool socks can last up to three to five years. However, that usage requires care. It is best to purchase a good brand that manufactures merino socks since the lifespan varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Unfortunately, merino wool socks may be worn out in days, depending on how it is manufactured. Though, the quality of merino wool is durable. The way it is manufactured will indeed affect how long it will last because if the knitting and weaving process is taken for granted, its stitches may be worn out easily.
Merino wool socks can last long but note that the user requires moderate use. Though socks are durable, they will be worn out eventually if you use them every day. Moreover, the life span of socks depends on how you use them or where you use them.
If you are using your socks just for feet protection if you go to work, then it will last long. However, if you use your socks in extreme adventures, you need to add more care. Though merino wool can endure harsh conditions, over time, it may be worn out.
Merino wool is indeed naturally durable because of its natural components. Merino sheep use merino wool to withstand harsh conditions and ever-changing weather, which proves its durability.
Other than that, the process of merino wool production includes a lot of processes that strengthen it more. Moreover, it can be blended with synthetic fabrics that will add to its durability.