Outdoor Blog

The Benefits (& Drawbacks) of Wearing Merino Wool

Published

3 years ago

May 20, 2021

No one likes wearing wool. It’s uncomfortable, and it’s itchy. However, there’s a difference between traditional wool and merino wool.

Wearing merino wool clothing is odor resistant, moisture-wicking, washable, and temperature regulating. While there are many benefits of merino wool, there are also some drawbacks!

Superfine merino wool is dyed with natural dyes.

What Is Merino Wool?

Merino wool is made from merino sheep that live in the mountains of Australia and New Zealand. These sheep originally lived in Spain, and they were thought to be so precious that it was illegal to export them. Merino sheep are also bred in the United States and some parts of South America.

Merino wool is superfine, which makes its fibers longer, softer, and stronger. There are still many similarities to regular wool, though. However, its main difference is that while it can keep you warm in the winter like traditional wool, it can also keep you cool in the summer.

To give you a reference on how thin merino wool is, human hair is about 75 microns and regular wool is about 40 microns. Merino wool is between 15 and 24 microns. This might sound kind of confusing, but if you think of wearing a sweater made of human hair and it’s thicker than regular wool, you’ll get it.

Odor resistant

Most wools are antibacterial, which means that you don’t have to wear as many layers when hiking a mountain. Merino wool fibers work kind of like insulation in a house because the thickness of it prevents bad bacteria from passing through. Especially the kinds of bacteria that make bad smells.

Also, merino wool absorbs moisture. This means that sweat is absorbed into the fabric instead of hanging out on your body. The keratin in the wool products breaks down the bacteria that create odors, so the wool basically washes itself. Even though the wool is washable, you don’t have to wash it as often as you do your other clothes! Just hang it up to air out, and it’ll be as good as new the next day.

Moisture-Wicking

Wool has hydrophilic fibers, which is what makes them so functional. These fibers can absorb up to 35% of their own weight in moisture and not feel wet at the same time. The moisture moves into the middle of the fibers instead of remaining on the surface of them. They are also what makes wool so warm and insulating.

Breathability is scientifically called moisture buffing. It’s called that because of the way the fibers absorb moisture from the microclimate directly through the skin and release it when it gets dry again. Some people wear wool in the warmer summer months because of how quickly it dries out. When it releases the moisture that it has absorbed, it gives you a fresh feeling that makes the article of clothing feel very lightweight.

Washable

Just because wool doesn’t get smelly often doesn’t mean that you can leave it unwashed. And sometimes you’ll have to wash it because you spilled something on it. Merino wool has a very easy-care system but washing it gives the option that it will shrink or get damaged. Here are some tips on washing merino wool.

Don’t wash it if you don’t have to. Frequent washing ruins the fibers, so carefully scrub stains off or hang them up to air out.
Use the wool or gentle wash cycle, and the water temperature should be between 30 and 40 degrees.
Only use wool detergent. You might have bought an outdoor detergent, but you have to use a wool detergent for regular and merino wool garments.
No fabric softener.
No tumble drying of any temperature or cycle. Lie the garment flat on a towel.
Wash in a laundry bag. This will help prevent holes from getting in the products.
If it’s super dirty, soak it in wool detergent. Under no circumstances should you increase the temperature of the water.
Read the wash instructions for each individual item because each item could require different care.

Each item of clothing could have different care instructions, so don’t blindly follow these steps without checking the item’s tag first. However, these steps are the basics for all wool items. And there are a lot more wool clothes than just sweaters and socks.

Temperature Regulating

Wool has lots of versatility. It’ll keep you warm in the colder months and cool in the warmer months. Everyone knows that wool will keep you warm, but not a lot of people know that it’ll keep you cool. When the fibers absorb body heat, it’s also removing the heat from you and keeping it off you. This explains why merino sheep don’t die from the heat under the Australian sun.

UV radiation is harmful no matter what time of year. The sun doesn’t take breaks during the winter months. If you wear merino wool clothing, you don’t have to worry about getting too hot in long sleeve t-shirts or getting sunburnt in short sleeve t-shirts. Merino wool will keep you cool enough during the hot months so that you don’t need to get sunburnt arms a second thought.

Australia is the most popular place for breeding merino sheep.

Merino Wool vs. Synthetic Fabrics

T-shirts made of synthetic fibers build up odors and stains so easily, you barely have to look at them before it happens. They don’t have good insulation, but they have great durability and elasticity. More expensive synthetics don’t have these same downsides, but they’re about the same price as merino wool products.

Merino Wool vs. Regular Wool

Merino wool is very different from the regular wool that everyone thinks of when you hear the word “wool.” While both kinds of wool are very warm, regular wool is very itchy.

Merino Wool vs. Expensive Furs

Alpaca fur is one of the major furs that could give merino wool a run for its money. It’s very warm, which makes sense considering that alpacas live in the Andes mountains. It’s about as soft as cashmere. It does the same job as merino wool when it comes to smell and dirt.

Merino Wool vs. Cotton

Cotton is not very good for outdoor activities that could lead to sweating. This is because it gets very heavy, stinky, and dirty very quickly. It is by far the cheapest fabric, but is it worth it at the end of the day? It is softer and could be better for very sensitive skin, but it’s not the best if you do not have sensitive skin.

Merino Wool Socks

Wool socks are incredibly popular. They can keep your feet very warm without being super bulky like fleece socks. Smartwool has one of the largest selections of merino wool socks for any and all occasions. Men have 11 different kinds of socks, and women have 11 different kinds as well.

Merino Wool Shirts

When you first think about it, a shirt made of wool sounds awful. But, because merino wool is better than regular wool, it makes lots of sense to wear merino wool shirts when hiking. They have great breathability and provide a really good base layer. Smartwool makes several different kinds of merino wool shirts for men and women.

Merino Wool Sweaters

These aren’t going to be like the wool sweaters your grandma used to make for you. They’re super soft and super warm. Guys have several options over at Smartwool’s website, and girls have some good finds over there too.

Merino Wool Underwear

It sounds gross. If you’re weirded out by the thought of any kind of wool underwear, you don’t have to get any. However, it’s not as uncommon as you might think. Hikes can get cold, especially when you’re doing some extreme mountain climbing. On the other hand, you can sweat in all kinds of places if it’s hot outside. Men’s and women’s merino wool underwear is very resourceful in any climate.

Not The Softest Fabric

Merino wool may be softer than traditional wool, but it’s definitely not the softest fabric out there. It’s without a doubt not as soft as silk, and it’s sometimes not as soft as cotton. Think about it: have you ever seen merino wool be used as bed sheets or towels? You most likely haven’t, and even if you have, you’re probably one in a million when it comes to that. Merino wool towels and sheets aren’t going to catch on anytime soon.

Hiking in merino wool is very easy because you really only need a base layer and an outer layer for cooler climates.

Great Durability, No Invincibility

Merino wool is durable to a very certain extent. Sure, it’s more durable than traditional wool garments. However, you’ll notice that the elbows will develop holes after so many wears. It’s not necessarily a bad thing, but it’s not a great thing when you remember how expensive it is. There aren’t many kinds of merino wool pants because of this reason.

Related to durability, moths love merino wool. Moths are drawn to animal fibers to snack on. Because merino wool is made from merino sheep, you’re probably going to have to defend your clothes from the moths who want to turn them into dinner.

Plain Patterns

Let’s face it: merino wool garments aren’t that stylish. If you want to wow everyone you’re going hiking with or just hanging out with, it’s going to be hard to accomplish that in merino wool clothing. It doesn’t have great versatility, so it’s hard to get the fibers to do something other than plain colors.

You probably won’t see many merino wool products at the next fashion week. However, merino wool isn’t meant to be beautiful; it’s meant to keep your body temperature at a normal level.

Holds Moisture For Too Long

Merino wool has hydrophilic fibers in it. Hydrophilic is Latin for “water-loving.” It has a very hard time letting go of any moisture it has collected. It can hold up to 35% of its weight in moisture and not feel wet, but that doesn’t mean that it won’t feel heavy. Everything is heavier when it’s wet, and merino wool is no exception.

There are some people who have found that certain merino wool shirts can take under an hour to air dry. However, these shirts are the exception. It will most likely take much longer for merino wool clothes to dry. Synthetic fabrics dry a lot faster than merino wool fabrics.

Very Expensive

True merino wool clothes that are of good quality are going to cost you a very pretty penny. While you could get the same kind of shirt made of synthetic fibers for maybe $10, the shirt made with merino wool fibers will cost around $50. And that’s just for one t-shirt. It’s good quality items, but the price tends to drown out the quality aspects of it.

Animal Cruelty

There are so many articles and blog posts online that tell what actually happens to sheep who get sheared for their wool. There’s a particularly bad method of shearing a sheep’s rear end called mulesing. You might want to refrain from searching this word in any search engine if you have a weak stomach because the pictures are very graphic.

Mulesing is when a sheep farmer removes big patches of flesh and skin from the butt area of a sheep to prevent blowfly infestation. This infestation is called “flystrike,” and it is a condition where flies lay eggs on an animal and the maggots each the flesh of the animal they were laid on. It can be fatal in extreme cases and is painful in every case. So, to prevent this disease, some sheep farmers cut off the skin of a lamb.

There are several other methods to prevent flystrike. However, mulesing is still popular all over the world. This technique is used for all types of wool, and merino wool companies are cautious about working with non-ethical farmers.

It’s your decision to figure out if you think it’s wrong or not, so don’t let this pressure you into deciding to never wear wool again. You decide what you put on your body, so you decide if you think this is a downside to wearing merino wool or not.

Final Thoughts

Merino wool can have many benefits. However, it also has many drawbacks. It can definitely be worth the money. But, it can also prove itself not to be. There are lots of different ways to look at this, but you have to make the decision that is best for you and your lifestyle. If you like to hike in both hot and cold climates, investing in some merino wool clothing probably isn’t a bad idea.

If you only like hiking in hot climates, you might want to consider synthetic fabrics to see if you like those first. You don’t want to spend a lot of money on merino wool only to decide that you hate it. If you just like to hike in cold climates, think about your options. You could get merino wool clothes and be extra toasty, or you could get alpaca fur clothes and feel super soft and warm.

Bonus tip: check out this video for more information about merino wool!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter