Wool has an almost magical status in Norway. "Wool at heart" is a well-known mantra and every autumn wool underwear is on the shopping lists of families with children across the country, as natural as milk and bread.
While our European neighbors hardly use wool at all, we have a dear and sentimental relationship with wool, with long traditions. After another derailment of synthetic super underwear in the 80s, we've thankfully come to our senses again, because nothing beats wool. Especially not in our Nordic climate, with freezing temperatures, howling winds and constantly raging weather.
The kindergarten uniform for the past 20 years has been woolen jumpers and jerseys, and merino wool has long since moved from the world of winter sports to fine basic garments for everyday use. Wool is a must-have garment in winter, and thin merino wool can practically be used all year round. Regardless of whether you're a fan or not - everyone should have woolen underwear in their closet. But.. what exactly is so good about wool?
Wool facts
• Wool is 100% renewable and natural. It does not emit microplastics, and although the sheep have a climate footprint, wool does not require the absorption of oil, as synthetic garments do.
• The quality of the wool is determined, among other things, by the breed of sheep, where on the sheep the wool comes from and when it was shorn. Merino wool has longer and thinner fibers than other types of wool, and you will notice that merino wool garments feel light and soft against the skin. The fibers are more elastic than normal wool fibers and hold their shape better.
• Wool can retain a lot of moisture without feeling wet, and transports moisture away from the skin. In winter, it is therefore an advantage to use wool inside and on the feet. If you sweat, the moisture will be moved away from the skin and into the outermost layer, so you don't feel clammy or start to freeze. Wool will also keep you warm even when wet, and can actually warm more. If you stick a thermometer in a wet wad of wool, the temperature will rise, and in the old days, fishermen dipped woolen mittens in the sea to keep warm.
• Wool has temperature-regulating properties, and regulates both cold and heat. In winter, it has a heat-insulating effect, while thin woolen garments can be used all year round.
• Wool is naturally flame retardant. Wool underwear is therefore often used under protective clothing. In contrast to wool, synthetic garments are easily flammable, and we recommend that all children (and adults!) who are going to be in close proximity to fires to dress in wool - not synthetic fleece.
• Wool has antibacterial properties. This prevents the smell of sweat and makes wool, especially merino wool, a great fit for underwear and socks. Bras and inserts in wool are also good for you who are breastfeeding, both to draw moisture away from the skin, but also to prevent infection.