So, what is merino wool actually made of? (besides the fact that it comes from sheep)

Merino wool is made of proteins composed of amino acids and natural compounds. Merino is a natural and renewable fibre – meaning that one sheep can provide one to two kilograms of  wool annually. An added benefit to merino being a natural fibre, is that sheep have undergone harsh environmental conditions and have evolved to survive, allowing them to be comfortable in temperatures that range from -15 to 35 degrees celsius, allowing garments made from their wool to do the same.

THE BENEFITS OF MERINO WOOL

Temperature control

It is a multi-functional material which assists with keeping your body constantly regulated – no matter the temperature. When it’s cold, the natural fibres trap the air and insulate – keeping your body warm. When it’s warm outside, it transports sweat away from your skin, this assists with keeping you cool and dry. Therefore, giving you a thermo-regulating effect.

Stay dry and sweat-free

Merino fibre can absorb up to one third of its weight in moisture while still feeling comfortable and keeping you dry. How does this happen? The fibres are naturally porous. They are made up of little plates that moisture vapour can get in between, this means you are not feeling wet or cold after a workout.

It doesn’t stink!

Wear it again and again. This wool is unique in the sense that it absorbs odour. Yes, you read that correctly. It traps the bacteria, trapping their smell and stops them from building up – which essentially, causes the smell to occur.

Wear it, again, again and…again.

Merino is soooo soft!

This variation of wool is super fine and soft. A single merino wool fibre is ⅓ the diameter of a human hair. When it moves against your skin, it actually bends out of the way. It cannot be ‘bristly’ like other wool fibres as it cannot stand up to the weight of itself.

Hide from the sun

The association of “wool” and “sheep” – makes one automatically have connotations of warmth and heat. Merino wool naturally absorbs UV radiation and provides UPF protection. The natural fibres actually help with blocking out the harmful rays from the sun. So when you are out on your next summer ride, your ultimate go-to will be a merino jersey or tee, to keep you protected from the harmful UV rays.

SO, WHAT DOES ALL OF THIS MEAN? 

Merino is a super versatile fabric and products made with it are designed to perform. Our range is here to assist you with combating harsh conditions and training to your peak performance, all while looking and feeling good.

The world of cycling is dominated by synthetic fabrics designed for athletic performance, but as fabric technologies have advanced, we are seeing more and more how natural fabrics can be incorporated to create the next generation of high performance cycle wear. Merino wool is one such fabric that is taking the cycling world by storm.  It’s time you discover the joys of Merino wool fabric for yourself. Shop Ciovita’s Merino Capsule Collection here.