Merino Wool

With a close connection to nature, AYAQ has chosen natural materials such as virgin merino wool for some of its garments. 

You have certainly heard of this well-known fibre, though you may not be aware of the many technical and environmental benefits that make it so valuable when seeking comfort, performance and respect for nature. 

Merino yarn comes from the virgin wool of merino sheep, a breed that lives in regions with extreme climatic variations. To withstand scorching summers, heavy rain between seasons, periods of drought and intense cold, their wool coats must adapt and offer exceptional versatility. 

This ability to adapt to the harshest weather conditions is due in particular to the wool's very fine fibres: a merino wool fibre is around half the thickness of a “regular” wool fibre! 

Several properties of merino wool make it a highly effective material for technical base layers worn directly against the skin. 

No itching, exceptional softness: The fineness of a fibre determines its softness. At 25 microns and above, wool can feel itchy and prickly. AYAQ uses 17.5-micron yarns that feel exceptionally soft to the touch and against every part of the body. 

--

Warmth and insulation: The fibre's structure traps plenty of air, making wool naturally warm and temperature-regulating. It is therefore particularly well suited to mountain activities. 

Moisture absorption: thanks to its natural properties, merino fibre can absorb up to 35% of its weight in moisture while still feeling dry. During exercise, less sweat remains on the skin as the fibre absorbs this moisture and then releases it. 

Anti-odour: Merino wool has a natural anti-bacterial effect. Bacteria associated with perspiration cause unpleasant odours. Thanks to the structure of merino wool fibres and the lanolin (a natural substance) that coats them, bacteria cannot cling to the fibres, preventing unpleasant odours. 

Its anti-odour properties mean you can wear your garment for several days without unpleasant smells. This means fewer washes, saving energy and water. You can also head out on a multi-day hike without being weighed down by numerous changes of clothing.

Certifications 

The virgin merino wool used by AYAQ comes from responsible, sustainable farms. 

It is certified non-mulesing, ensuring respect for animals and their well-being. Mulesing is an unfortunately common and cruel procedure that involves cutting away a large strip of skin and flesh around the tail without anaesthetic. 

The wool used by AYAQ carries B Corp and ZQ certifications. 

Find out more about these certifications at https://bcorporation.eu/  and  https://www.discoverzq.com/ 

Caring for your merino wool garment 

Wool is considered more delicate to wash and care for. 

Yet a well-cared-for merino wool garment can last a very long time. It need not be complicated: simply follow a few straightforward guidelines and tips. 

You can find all our washing and care advice on our Care page. 

You can also discover our two products made from 100% virgin merino wool fabric: 

The MEFONNA Merino Long Sleeve technical base-layer top and the multi-purpose Lobbia Merino Neck Warmer.