Hello, I'm Hiroki, a new employee at OLENO.
I have studied wool several times in the past, but this time I would like to summarize lamb's wool, which is said to be a high-quality wool on par with merino wool.
(By the way, there are about 3,000 types of sheep in the world.)
Like merino wool, lamb's wool is widely used in socks and clothing, but each has different characteristics and benefits. Different materials are more suitable depending on how you choose your socks and what you use them for , so understanding these differences will help you make the best choice!
And here's the conclusion first!
| Features | Lambswool | Merino wool |
| Fiber softness | Very soft and pleasant to the touch | Smooth and less tingly |
| Thermal insulation | Very high | High temperature regulation function |
| Durability | Slightly low | Excellent |
|
Applications |
Winter socks for protection against the cold | Socks for sports, outdoors, and all year round use |
|
Odor Resistant |
None | Has a natural deodorizing effect |
Characteristics of Lamb's Wool
1.What is lamb's wool?
Lamb's wool is the first wool shorn from lambs within about 7 months of age. This wool is very soft and made up of fine fibers, and because it is harvested before the sheep grow, there is little damage to the fibers and they have natural elasticity and suppleness.
2. Feel and softness
Lambswool is extremely soft and gentle on the skin. Therefore, it is suitable for people with sensitive skin and for items that come into direct contact with the skin. When used in socks, it provides a comfortable fit and keeps your feet comfortable all day long.
3. Thermal insulation
Lambswool has very fine fibers and contains a lot of air, so it has very high heat retention. It is especially suitable for cold seasons and people who have cold hands and feet, and keeps your feet warm.
4. Durability
Because lamb's wool is soft, it may be less durable than regular wool. Therefore, you need to be a little careful when using it for long periods of time on a daily basis. It may not be suitable for uses that are prone to wear and tear.
Merino wool characteristics
The characteristics of merino wool are explained in detail in a previous article, so please take a look if you are interested!
A thorough investigation into the pros and cons of merino wool
Here is a simple explanation,
1.What is Merino wool?
Merino wool is wool obtained from Merino sheep. This wool has very fine and long fibers and is considered to be of particularly high quality among wools. Australia and New Zealand are the main producing areas.
2. Feel and comfort
Merino wool is the second softest after lamb's wool, but its fibers are smoother and less itchy. When used in socks, it has the advantage of being comfortable to wear for long periods of time and not easily becoming stuffy.
3. Temperature control function
The biggest feature of merino wool is its excellent temperature regulation. It keeps you warm when it's cold, and absorbs sweat and dries quickly when it's hot, making it comfortable to wear all year round. This feature is particularly suitable for sports and outdoor socks, and is used in many of our OLENO brand socks.
4.Durability and ease of handling
Merino wool has long, thin fibres that make it very durable, and it has a natural anti-odour effect, meaning it doesn't smell bad even when you sweat, making it an excellent choice for athletic or travel socks.
・The record-breaking crowdfunded "Merino wool neck sleeve "
・These superb wool socks are made from the finest wool.
・Wool in summer?! Wool and mesh socks made with thorough research
Points to consider when choosing socks
- For cold weather or when you want to keep warm : Lamb's wool is a great choice. It keeps your feet warm, and is especially suitable for indoor use or as winter socks.
- For sports and outdoor activities : Merino wool is a great choice as it is durable, thermoregulates and resists odour, making it comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
- For sensitive skin : Both are soft, but merino wool is less itchy and more comfortable.
- Consider your budget : Merino wool is generally more expensive, but its durability can make it a good value for the money.
Above, we have summarized the differences between lamb's wool and merino wool, as well as the points to consider when choosing.
Lambswool and merino wool each have different characteristics, so I think it's important to choose according to your purpose and needs. Lambswool is soft and warm, making it suitable for cold seasons, while merino wool has temperature regulating and odor resistant properties, making it a versatile material that can be used for a wide range of purposes. Consider your lifestyle and the purpose of your socks and choose the best material. By the way, I only choose merino wool.
