As the winter season knocks on the door, you start to wonder about the type of fabric to wear. Among many, wool is one textile fiber that comes to mind.
Although many people relate the word “wool” with sheep, it comes as a surprise that there are multiple types of wool that is obtained from animals other than sheep.
In this blog, we will be explaining about different types of wool, varying from luxurious options to the more common kinds used in daily wear.
How Many Types of Wool Are There?
Although, there are numerous types of wool. We will be discussing about the 20 most popular wool types. Each of these wool types come with unique characteristics and uses. Wool can be sourced from various breeds of sheep/lambs and other animals, such as goats, yak and many more, hence the properties such as warmth, softness and endurance, differ significantly.
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Different Types of Sheep Wool
There are different types of sheep wool used in different types of wool coats, wool sweaters, and wool jackets. Let’s explore the 20 most prevalent ones!
Virgin Wool
Virgin wool refers to the wool that has been taken off from sheep without being used before. Virgin wool comes from the first shearing of a sheep, mostly when it is around 6 to 12 months old. Known for its excellent quality and pure texture, Virgin Wool is mostly used in high-end products. Virgin wool is comparatively softer and retains better heat than recycled wool.
Merino Wool
Merino wool is derived from Merino sheep. It is highly regarded as the superior wool due to its incredibly soft fibers and fine texture, making it a popular choice for wool lovers around the world. Its exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio makes it perfect for a wide range of clothing, from cozy sweaters to lightweight base layers.
Wool from Shetland Sheep
The breed of Shetland sheep comes from the Shetland Islands, located in the northeast of mainland Scotland. The shearing that comes from these sheep is categorized as Shetland wool. This wool is known for its distinctively fine, smooth texture and durable quality. It is highly prized for its scarce supply, comfortable warmth and softness.
17 Other Different Types of Wool
Apart from these above most popular sheep wool varieties, there are several other wool types that have specific qualities suited for particular uses. These kinds of wool are carefully sourced from various different animals including some sheep breeds. These wools are highly valued and have expensive prices due to their softness, insulation, and luxurious texture.
Tropical Wool
Tropical wool also comes from the wool of sheep, most commonly Merino sheep, especially those that are raised in hot climates. Tropical wool is lighter compared to regular wool, which makes it perfect for clothing in warm temperatures. Tropical wool garments are perfect for individuals who are looking for lightweight, breathable, and comfortable options without compromising on insulation.
Cashmere Wool
Cashmere is the ultimate luxury, derived from the fine undercoat of Cashmere goats, known for its exceptional softness and warmth. This exquisite wool type is perfect for luxurious sweaters and indulgent scarves, adding a touch of lavishness to any outfit. Once you feel the smoothness of Cashmere against your skin, you won’t want anything else! Plus, it’s a timeless investment for your wardrobe.
Alpaca Wool
Alpaca wool is highly valued for its ultimate softness and luxurious texture. It originates from the fibers of alpacas, a species of South American camelid mamma in Andes Mountains. Alpaca’s fibers are naturally hypoallergenic, making them perfect for people with sensitive skin. Whether it’s cozy blankets or stylish shawls, Alpaca wool brings a touch of South American elegance to any outfit. Additionally, its insulating properties make it perfect for keeping warm in cold weather.
Camel Hair Wool
Camel wool comes from the soft undercoat of Bactrian camels. Camel wool is highly valued for its outstanding warmth and strength. Camel Hair Wool natural resistance to water and ability to provide insulation in extreme conditions make it a highly useful fabric. Whether it’s tough outerwear or snug blankets, Camel wool embodies the essence of desert fashion. Its unique properties make it a top choice for desert lovers and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Mohair Wool
Mohair wool is sourced from the Angora goat, which are mostly found in the Angora region of modern-day Turkey. This wool is valued for its glowing sheen and durable quality. Mohair wool is often used in high-end fashion and as covers for sofas or couches due to its silky texture and radiant color retention. Mohair wool is very lightweight, highly stretchable, and ideal for a luxurious feel.
Llama Wool
Llama wool refers to the fiber produced by llamas, mostly found in the Andes mountains of South America known for its comfortable warmth. Llama Wool is hypoallergenic, which makes it a great alternative for people with wool allergies. Llama Wool is used in shawls, knitwear, and blankets. It is highly valued for its natural insulation, keeping wearers comfortable and cozy during cold season.
Vicuña Wool
Vicuña wool is among some of the luxurious natural fibers. Vicuña wool comes from the animal Vicuña, a wild animal but close relative of the alpaca and llama found in the South American mountains. It is one of the most expensive and rarest types of wool because of its warmth, softness, and fineness. Vicuña wool is very lightweight with high insulation properties, making it the ideal choice for luxurious clothing, textiles, and blankets.
Qiviut Wool
Qiviut wool comes from the fine undercoat of the muskox, found primarily in the Alaska and Canada regions. It is considered as one of the warmest and softest wools in the world. Moreover, Qiviut Wool is also among some of the rarest and most luxurious natural fibers because of its superior insulation despite being lightweight and soft. It offers 8 times more warmth than normal sheep wool, making it an ideal choice for arctic climates. Qiviut Wool is often used in high-end knitwear like sweaters and scarves.
Angora Wool
The wonderful Angora wool comes from the soft fur of Angora rabbits and is highly valued for its incredibly soft and light texture. Whether it’s used to make warm socks or luxurious sweaters, Angora wool brings a classy touch to any outfit. Additionally, its natural fluffiness provides excellent insulation during the frostiest days. Moreover, Angora wool is also known for its hypoallergenic properties, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.
Goat Wool
Goat wool is produced by various breeds of goats such as from cashmere goats, mohair goats and pashmina goats. The specialty of goat wool lies in its natural sheen, glossy/shiny surface, that adds a touch of elegance and coziness. Goat Wool is used in high-end fashion products such as shawls, sweaters, and gloves. Goat wool is incredibly soft and lightweight and yet provides high insulation.
Melton Wool
Melton wool is made from wool that comes from the fleece of sheep. The wool fibers are processed through a technique called felting to make a dense, thick, and tightly woven wool fabric. The Melton wool is highly durable and offers water resistance. It is commonly used in structured outerwear like jackets and coats because of its ability to maintains its original form without sagging, stretching, or deforming over time and resist wrinkling. Melton Wool is highly insulating due to dense fibers.
Yak Wool
As the name denotes, Yak wool is produced by yaks which are primarily found in the Trans-Himalayas region of the Indian subcontinent. It is known for its similarities with Cashmere in terms of softness, and excellent insulating properties. These similarities have made Yak wool to be recognized as one of the finest natural fibers. Yak wool garments are stretchable and moisture-wicking making it the perfect choice for high-end outdoor fashion and cold weather gear.
Recycled Wool
Recycled wool is obtained from wool garments that are repurposed, either leftover fabrics from the textile factory or discarded clothes makes it an eco-friendly option. Recycled Wool has much of the insulating properties and texture like a new wool, but with very little environmental footprint. Recycled wool is utilized in sustainable fashion i.e. repurposed old products while maintaining quality.
Woolen Wool
Woolen wool comes from the category of wool fabric that is created by short wool fibers and characterized by loose, thicker texture. It is processed through spinning and weaving to make it fluffy and soft. Woolen Wool is often used in cold-weather garments like shawls and blankets. Woolen wool is known for its natural insulating properties as the bulkiness of the fabric traps heat and keeps you warm.
Lamb’s Wool
Lamb’s wool is the perfect choice for those seeking a wool type that offers a great balance of softness and durability. It comes from the first shearing of young sheep, giving it a fine texture and fantastic elasticity. This makes it an excellent option for creating knitwear such as cardigans and blankets, providing both comfort and long-lasting quality. The natural insulating properties provide warmth during chilly temperatures.
Worsted Wool
Worsted wool is a type of wool fabric that is created by long, fine wool fibers. These fibers are spun and carded to create a smooth, sleek fabric. Worsted Wool strength and ability to hold its shape well makes it one of the finest types of wool. It is used in customized garments like business suits and blazers, and it is also found in other high-quality fabrics. Worsted Wool can be worn in both warm and cold conditions.
Raw Wool
Raw wool is wool that has been sheared from sheep but has not yet been processed or cleaned. Raw wool retains natural oils and lanolin, which gives it insulating properties. Raw wool is often used in felting, spanning, weaving and stuffing, and it requires cleaning before it turned into garments or fabrics.
Different Types of Wool Fabric
Other than wool types, there are different types of wool fabrics as well. These come in a range of forms, each catering specific needs addressing the texture and warmth quality, and durability. Let’s delve into the wool fabric types and how they are ideal in particular situations.
Boiled Wool
Boiled wool comes from the wool fibers that are intentionally felted and shrunk, through a process known as boiling. The process results in a durable, thick, and dense fabric. Typically, high-quality wool like merino, is used for boiled wool fabric which is naturally warm and hence used in coats and cardigans.
Felted Wool
Felted wool is produced by the process of matting wool fibers together through pressure and heat. Felted Wool used in hats, and gloves offering a steady yet soft texture. The special felting process makes a thick, durable fabric that is really strong and naturally water-resistant. Felted Wool is perfect for both fashion and functional items.
Wool Fleece
Wool fleece is a type of wool fabric that is made from the soft curly wool taken directly from a sheep, by shearing it. Due to its softness and warmth, it is often used in cozy winter garments and insulation materials. The fleece has a natural elasticity that allows it to retain shape and natural elasticity of fleece allows it to trap air, providing excellent heat while remaining stretchable. Wool fleece is an eco-friendly choice for sustainable fashion as it is biodegradable.
Loden Fleece
Loden fleece is originally found in the Alps, a European mountain region known for its cold and snowy conditions. It is a heavy type of wool fabric due to its dense nature. Loden fleece is often a popular choice for coats and jackets. It is prized for its comfortable insulation and water-resistant properties. It is crafted from sheep’s wool and has a thick, sturdy texture which offers protection against extremely cold conditions.
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