Merino Wool Vs Cashmere – Which is Warmer?

Wool is one of the top-performing materials available today. Due to its strong qualities, wool is most frequently used within outdoor clothing to enable explorers and sports enthusiasts to perform at the best of their ability. When comparing merino wool vs cashmere, which type of wool is warmer? Is one more durable than the other? Is one more prone to pilling?

When you’re shopping for outdoor gear, these are some of the questions you need to know the answer to. This will help you to find the most appropriate clothing materials for your chosen activity. Continue to read our guide as we explore the properties of merino wool and cashmere.

What is Wool?

Wool is a natural fibre that covers the skin of a range of animals, including sheep, goats, and alpacas. Its most commonly used in woven and knitted textiles. Wool fibres are gathered during the animals' annual shearing process.

For many years, wool has been used to manufacture warm clothes, blankets, and many other soft furnishings. This is because wool is a naturally good heat insulator due to the crimped quality of its fibres. It doesn’t matter what animal the fibres have come from, wool will always keep you warm in cold conditions. It is important to note, this does not apply to all the characteristics of wool as they can greatly differ depending on the animal source.

Wool is unique in that, although being an insulator, it can also help keep you cool in hot weather depending on fibre structure and thickness. It's a breathable material that has the ability to wick moisture away - keeping you dry and controlling body odour. So, what's the difference between merino and cashmere?

Merino Wool Vs Cashmere

Firstly, the most predominant difference between these two types of wool is where the fibres are sourced. Merino wool comes from merino sheep throughout Australia. Whereas, most cashmere comes from goats in the Gobi Desert. They could be anywhere from Northern China to Mongolia. Cashmere is rare and complex to manufacture - it has to be done by hand in spring making it expensive to purchase.

Warmness

Cashmere is the warmest wool out of the two. It can be seven to eight times warmer than merino wool. However, don’t let this put you off merino wool if you spend a lot of time in the outdoors. They will both keep you warm during extreme conditions if worn correctly, making them great for sports like skiing. Read our layering guide for more information! And, they both have body temperature controlling and naturally absorbent qualities that will make sure you stay dry.

Softness
Cashmere is softer than merino wool as it has a higher loft. Loft refers to a fibres structural ratio of fibre to air. A high-loft means more air which gives the material a soft and fluffy feel. Plus, more insulation. Cashmere is also immensely soft because it comes from a specific type of goat that grows an undercoat of superfine fibres concentrated on their underbelly. One cashmere fibre is less than 18.5 microns in diameter whereas merino wool is around 22 microns.

Durability

Merino wool is more elastic and durable than cashmere. Its strong structure is sturdy and will last longer than cashmere if care instructions are followed correctly. You’ll get years of use out of our merino garments, plus it's less prone to pilling compared to cashmere keeping it in top form, making it great for all kinds of sports.

Comfort

Merino is extremely comfortable due to its fine fibres making it flexible and adaptable to movement, making it especially great clothes for climbers. The flexibility makes it perfect for sportswear as you move around freely with no restrictions. Although, as cashmere is softer, you could argue it is more comfortable. 

Care and Maintenance

Merino wool requires less care and maintenance due to its durability. It is easier to wash and keep in good condition. As cashmere is such a delicate material it is much harder to care for. Due to the fine fibres, it is only recommended to have it professionally washed or hand wash it at home.

The Best Wool for the Outdoors

Merino and Cashmere are both used in outdoor gear, including our men and women's Artilect base layer options and small accessories like our moisture-wicking hats, balaclavas and gloves. Whilst cashmere is the warmest of the two types of wool, merino is preferred in performance wear due to its versatility and strength. As cashmere is extremely soft and rare, you more commonly find it in high-end fashion garments.