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The Health Benefits of Wearing Merino Wool vs. Synthetics

  • Writer: Carolina Hough
    Carolina Hough
  • Nov 29
  • 3 min read

Why choosing natural fibers matters for your comfort, skin, and overall well-being

As consumers become more mindful about what they wear, the conversation around fabric health is growing louder—and for good reason. The materials we put against our skin every day can influence everything from body temperature to skin sensitivity, odor control, and overall comfort.

And when it comes to choosing between natural merino wool and synthetic fabrics, the difference is remarkable.


A serene flock of sheep grazing in a sunlit field, embodying the natural source of the world's finest wool garments.
A serene flock of sheep grazing in a sunlit field, embodying the natural source of the world's finest wool garments.

Merino Wool: Nature’s High-Performance Fiber

Merino wool isn’t just soft and luxurious—it’s a natural powerhouse packed with benefits that enhance comfort and support your body’s well-being throughout the day. Unlike old perceptions of wool being scratchy or heavy, modern merino is ultrafine, silky, breathable, and ideal even for sensitive skin.


1. Superior Temperature Regulation

Your body works hard to maintain a stable temperature. Merino wool helps it do exactly that.

  • Keeps you warm in the cold by trapping warm air in its natural crimp.

  • Keeps you cool indoors because it breathes and releases excess heat.

Synthetics, on the other hand, often trap heat and moisture, making you feel clammy or overheated—especially during winter when indoor heating fluctuates.



2. Naturally Moisture-Wicking and Quick-Drying

Merino absorbs up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling wet, pulling sweat away from your skin and releasing it into the air.Synthetics can wick moisture, but they don’t absorb it, causing sweat to sit on the skin, contributing to odor, friction, and discomfort.



3. Odor Resistant (Without Chemicals!)

One of merino’s signature benefits is its natural odor resistance.The fiber’s structure prevents bacteria from multiplying, meaning your clothing stays fresher, longer—without relying on chemical treatments.

Many synthetic materials require added antimicrobial chemicals to reduce odor, which can wash out over time or cause irritation for sensitive skin.



4. Hypoallergenic & Gentle on Skin

Merino is naturally hypoallergenic and ideal for people with:✔ Eczema✔ Sensitive skin✔ Contact allergies✔ Itching or irritation from synthetics

Its ultrafine fibers bend softly against the skin rather than poking or creating friction. Synthetics often cause overheating and trapped moisture, which can aggravate skin conditions or lead to rashes.



5. Breathability That Supports Your Body’s Natural Balance

Merino fibers are active—they react to temperature changes, helping your body maintain comfort without relying on bulky layers.Synthetics lack this natural “intelligence,” often feeling suffocating during movement or changes in environment.



6. Natural, Renewable, and Biodegradable

While not a direct “health” benefit, what you put on your body affects the environment around you. Merino wool is:

  • 100% natural

  • Annually renewable

  • Biodegradable

  • Free from plastic microfibers


Synthetic garments shed microplastics with every wash, contributing to environmental pollution—and those microplastics eventually make their way back into our waterways and food systems.


Woman posing wearing the Marlowe cowl neck merino dress, paired with signature powder pink wrap.


Why Your Body Loves Merino

Simply put, merino wool works with your body, not against it.It keeps your temperature regulated, your skin dry, your body odor-controlled, and your comfort level high—all day, every day.

Whether you're dressing for travel, work, the holidays, or cozy winter days, choosing merino wool is choosing:✨ Comfort✨ Breathability✨ Skin health✨ Natural performance



Product shout of merino wool Jesse cardigan in rosewood color.


A Healthy Choice for You—and the Planet

When you slip into a merino wool top, dress, cardigan, or wrap, you're not just wearing a piece of clothing. You're choosing a fabric that honors your body’s natural rhythms, keeps you comfortable in every season, and leaves a lighter footprint on the planet.

This season—and every season—your skin deserves the softness, breathability, and wellness benefits of pure, natural merino wool.




Compilation image of merino wool tops, scarves, wraps, and cardigans - a perfect and sustainable alternative to wearing synthetic clothing.

 
 
 

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