Why you should run in wool

Haven’t started running in wool yet? Here are 5 reasons why you should.

When people think of wool, many typically think of an itchy wool sweater — definitely not the type of material you want to be wearing when you’re going for a run. But hear us out because merino wool is soft, comfortable, and lightweight, making it the perfect go-to material for winter and summer running. Here are five reasons why you as a runner should consider wearing merino wool on your next run:

1.      Odour-resistant

Merino wool absorbs odours caused by bacteria, the structure of the fibre traps their smells and keeps them from building up. This makes merino gear great for multi-day trail runs and races. In fact, our brand manager rarely ever packs a second top when she heads out for multi-stage trail runs.  The other added bonus is just simply cutting back on laundry as you can air out and re-wear the same shirt to run in all week and save water and energy in the process!

2.       Body temperature regulating

Merino wool is great at helping keep your body temperature stable. In the heat, the fibres wick the sweat away from your skin to keep you cool. In the cold, the natural crimp of the wool fibre trap air which ultimately insulates you and keeps you warm.

3.      UPF protection

Merino wool fibres can block out harmful rays from the sun. As a natural fibre, evolved over millions of years to protect sheep against the elements, Merino wool absorbs UV radiation providing protection from the sun. This makes it an excellent choice for running in.

4.      Soft and comfortable

It’s hard to run well when your clothes are uncomfortable. Merino wool fibres are extremely fine, enabling them to bend far more than traditional, coarser wool fibres. This makes Merino wool feel soft and luxuriously gentle next to your skin.

5.      Great for layering

Not sure what the weather is going to throw at you on your run? Not a problem, our base- and mid-layer styles will have your back! Wearing multiple layers of merino allows for more efficient wicking of sweat moisture to keep your body drier and more comfortable on your run. Whether it is allowing excess heat a quicker escape route or getting rid of sweat vapour to keep you warmer in cold weather an extra merino layer will have your back in volatile weather conditions.