5 Reasons to Wear Merino Wool in Winter and Summer

If you’ve ever wondered, “Is merino wool good for winter? Can I wear it in summer?” you’re not alone!

Many Kiwis think of wool as a winter-only fabric, but merino is anything but ordinary. Its unique properties make it perfect for both freezing mornings and sunny afternoons, adapting effortlessly to your body’s needs no matter the season. And we all know how unpredictable New Zealand’s weather can be!

Whether you’re layering up for a crisp morning hike in Queenstown or staying cool at a backyard BBQ in summer, merino wool offers unmatched versatility.

Let’s uncover what makes this wonder fibre the perfect choice, no matter the weather.

1. Merino Wool Excels in Cold Weather

Merino wool is a game-changer for cold climates, offering unparalleled warmth and comfort. Its finely crimped fibres create tiny pockets of air that trap heat close to your body, acting as a natural insulating layer.

This makes merino wool incredibly effective at keeping you warm without adding unnecessary bulk - a must for layering during winter.

Unlike cotton or synthetics, merino wool retains its insulating properties even when damp, which is especially important for outdoor adventures or unpredictable weather. Its breathability also prevents overheating, keeping you comfortable throughout the day, no matter how active you are.

For those extra-cold days, The Wool Company’s merino possum range takes warmth to the next level. By blending merino wool with possum fur, these garments provide exceptional insulation while remaining lightweight and luxuriously soft.

Whether you’re braving frosty mornings or heading to the mountains, a merino possum jumper or jacket is the ultimate winter companion.

Add to that merino’s moisture-wicking abilities, which draw sweat away from your skin, and you’ve got a fabric that ensures you stay dry and warm - key to maintaining body heat in cold conditions.

2. Merino Wool Keeps You Cool in Summer

Merino wool might not be the first fabric you think of for summer, but it should be!

Its natural temperature-regulating properties mean that it doesn’t just keep you warm in winter - it actively helps you stay cool when the weather heats up.

The secret lies in its ability to wick moisture away from your skin. When you sweat, merino wool absorbs the moisture and releases it into the air, leaving you feeling dry and comfortable, even on humid days.

This breathability is what sets merino apart from heavier or synthetic fabrics that trap heat and moisture, making you feel clammy.

Another reason merino is perfect for summer is its lightweight, soft texture. Unlike traditional wool, superfine merino fibres are incredibly fine (often under 18.5 microns) and bend easily, ensuring a silky feel against your skin without any itchiness. This makes it ideal for lightweight tees and tops designed for summer wear.

What’s more, merino wool’s natural odour resistance makes it a great choice for summer activities like hiking or travelling. You can wear it multiple times between washes without worrying about unpleasant smells - a bonus for both convenience and sustainability.

At The Wool Company, our bamboo-merino tees take summer comfort to the next level. With a 70% merino and 30% bamboo blend, these tops combine merino’s natural performance with bamboo’s silky softness and extra breathability.

They’re perfect for casual days out, warm evening strolls, or layering when the temperature dips slightly at night.

3. No More Itch!

One of the biggest concerns with wool is itchiness, especially in summer when warm weather can already make you feel sticky and uncomfortable.

Traditional wool fibres are thicker and coarser, which is why they can irritate the skin. Merino wool, on the other hand, usually comprises superfine fibres that measure 18.5 microns or less, thinner than a human hair.

This fineness gives merino a silky-smooth texture that feels soft and gentle against your skin. At 18.5 microns or less, even those with sensitive skin or allergies typically experience no irritation, making superfine merino an ideal choice for year-round wear.

Compared to heavier or coarser wools, it’s far more comfortable, especially during warmer months - like in summer, when this softness matters even more.

The last thing you want is clothing that aggravates your skin or clings uncomfortably in the heat. Merino’s natural breathability and moisture-wicking properties help prevent chafing, keeping your skin cool and dry no matter how warm it gets.

At The Wool Company, our tees, baby clothing, and lingerie are crafted from superfine merino, ensuring unmatched softness and comfort.

While some of our outerwear and throws are made from mid-micron merino (ranging from 25–30 microns), which provides durability and warmth, the majority of our range falls within the 14–24 micron range, ensuring a balance of performance and comfort.

Keep Reading: Is Merino Wool Itchy?

4. Say Goodbye to Seasonal Wardrobe Changes

Seasonal wardrobe changes often lead to waste, with old items being discarded as we move from winter to summer. Merino wool garments, however, are designed to transcend seasons.

Lightweight and breathable in summer yet insulating in winter, they help reduce the need for frequent wardrobe overhauls, saving money and minimising waste.

Merino wool isn’t just great for your wardrobe - it’s a win for the planet too. As a renewable and biodegradable fibre, merino has a significantly smaller environmental footprint compared to synthetic materials, which are often petroleum-based and non-biodegradable.

The Wool Company is committed to ethical practices, sourcing merino wool from trusted suppliers who prioritise animal welfare and environmental stewardship.

By choosing high-quality merino garments, you’re investing in pieces that are made to last, reducing the cycle of fast fashion and wasteful consumption.

And when your merino garment does eventually reach the end of its lifecycle, it will biodegrade naturally, returning to the earth without harming the environment.

5. Merino Wool is Adaptable & Versatile

Merino wool is more than just practical - it’s effortlessly stylish and adaptable to New Zealand’s famously unpredictable weather.

A merino tee, for example, is perfect on its own during a warm, sunny day but can just as easily be layered under a light jumper or cardigan when the temperature dips.

New Zealanders know all too well how quickly the weather can change - you might start the day with clear skies and 29-degree heat, only to face a cool 13-degree breeze by the afternoon. This makes having adaptable clothing like merino an invaluable addition to your wardrobe.

The Wool Company’s merino collection offers versatile pieces that transition seamlessly between seasons. Whether you’re planning a casual summer outing, layering for a winter hike, or simply navigating the unpredictable Kiwi climate, merino wool ensures you’re prepared for whatever the day brings!

The ability to mix and match these pieces means you can create stylish, functional outfits without compromising on comfort or practicality.

Choose Merino All Year Round!

Merino wool isn’t just for winter - it’s the ultimate fabric for all seasons. Its natural ability to regulate temperature, wick away moisture, and provide unparalleled softness makes it an essential part of any wardrobe.

Whether you’re layering up for a crisp winter morning, staying cool in the summer heat, or navigating New Zealand’s famously unpredictable weather, merino wool has you covered.

Explore The Wool Company’s range today and experience the unmatched versatility of merino wool for yourself. Whatever the season, merino ensures you’re ready for anything!