What is Merino Wool? - FITS®

June 15, 2022

Are you wondering what is merino wool? Merino wool is a popular material found in many articles of clothing, including sweaters, socks, and sweatpants. But what is it exactly? Keep reading to find answers to all your questions, including “what is merino wool?” and how to care for your merino wool products.

What is Merino Wool Made Of?

Merino wool comes from a breed of sheep native to Spain and was initially introduced to Australia in the early 19th century. The breed was brought to New Zealand in the late 19th century, quickly becoming popular for its high-quality wool. Merino wool is now used in various garments, including sweaters, socks, and base layers. The fiber is prized for its softness, moisture-wicking properties, and ability to regulate body temperature. In addition, merino wool is also resistant to wrinkles and static cling. As a result, it is an excellent choice for those looking for a natural fiber that offers both comfort and style.

Does Merino Wool Shrink?

Merino wool is often used in high-end clothing and accessories because it is soft, lightweight, and durable. Merino wool can also be quite expensive, so many are concerned about how well it will hold up over time. One common question about merino wool is whether or not it shrinks. The answer to this question is yes, merino wool does shrink, but it is not as susceptible to shrinking as other types of wool. This is because merino wool fibers are shorter than other types of wool fibers, so they are less likely to contract when exposed to heat or water. Additionally, merino wool garments are often treated with a special finish that helps prevent shrinkage. If you are worried about your merino wool garment shrinking, be sure to follow the care instructions carefully and avoid exposing the garment to high temperatures.

Is Merino Wool Itchy?

In general, merino wool is not super itchy because its fibers are much finer than other wool types. Because of this, merino wool is more soft and comfortable than anything else. However, if you are sensitive to wool or have experienced itchiness from merino wool in the past, you may want to try wearing clothing made from a different type of fabric.

How to Wash Merino Wool?

Merino wool is soft, strong, and versatile. Because of its delicate nature, it requires special care when washing. Here are some tips for how to clean your merino wool garments:


  1. Use cold water and a mild detergent designed for delicates.
  2. Avoid agitating the fabric too much.
  3. Rinse thoroughly in cold water until the water runs clear.
  4. Lay flat to dry in a cool, ventilated area; do not hang as this can cause the fabric to stretch or distort.

If you purchase clothing made with merino wool, check the washing instructions given, as they may differ depending on the type of garment.

Can You Wear Merino Wool in the Summer?

Many people think of merino wool as a winter fabric, but it can be quite comfortable to wear in the summer. The natural fibers are breathable and moisture-wicking, making them ideal for hot weather. In addition, merino wool is lightweight and doesn’t trap heat like some synthetic fabrics. As a result, it’s an excellent fabric for summertime clothing such as t-shirts, tank tops, and shorts.

Where Can You Find the Best Merino Wool Socks?

So, what is merino wool? A soft, comfortable, durable material that feels great on your skin. At FITS, we sell the highest-quality merino wool socks on the market using our FITS socks technology. Whether you’re looking for socks for everyday wear or a durable pair that can keep up with your next adventure, we have options for you. Shop our men's merino wool socks and merino wool socks for women today!

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Sock Sizing
women and men size chart

The Perfect Fit Starts With the Right Size.

Your sock size shouldn’t be a guessing game. Our socks range from small to double XL, but the best way to know the perfect fit for you is to match your shoe size to the chart on the left. That way, you’ll know the size you select will give you the fit and feel you expect.

Between sizes? Go with your gut, but rest assured that your socks will still fit great. If you receive your order and find yourself wishing you’d gone up or down a size, just let us know. We’ll happily send you replacements for your preferred size.

Concerned about laundry mix-ups? All FITS® socks are coordinated by color and size, based on the colors you see on the size chart. So, you won’t have to worry about mixing up your sizes with the other FITS® wearers in your home. (But stray socks mysteriously going missing in the dryer? Unfortunately, we can’t help with that.)

 

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How Do You Determine Sock Size?

Sock sizes are typically measured in inches, not by your shoe size. So, a sock size 6-8 will comfortably fit someone whose feet are between six and eight inches long. However, at FITS®, we make it easy for you to choose the ideal sock size without having to measure your foot. Simply use our sock size conversion chart based on your shoe size to select the right fit for you. 

How Do You Measure Your Foot for Socks?

To measure your foot for socks, measure the length from the heel of your foot to the tip of your longest toe. The measurement in inches correlates to your sock size. For example, if your foot is 10 inches long, a sock size 9-11 should fit you comfortably. At FITS®, you can skip this step and find your sock size based on your shoe size using our conversion chart. 

What Is the Sock Size Conversion?

The sock size conversion refers to sock size compared to shoe size. While all companies may vary slightly on which size socks to purchase based on your shoe size, you can always measure your foot to find the right fit for you. 

What is Sock Size to Shoe Size?

Because sock sizes are determined by the length of your foot in inches vs. your shoe size, shoe and sock sizes differ. The FITS® sock size to shoe size conversion is as follows:

Knowing this makes it easy to choose the ideal sock size based on your shoe size without measuring your foot. 

What Age is Sock Size 9-12?

Sock sizes typically don’t correlate with age. For kids, age can be a general indicator of what size sock they’ll need, but everyone is different. An adult sock size 9-12 fits anyone whose feet are approximately nine to twelve inches long. For kids’ sock sizing, check with the company to find exact details to ensure your little one gets the perfect fit. 

Got more questions about finding the perfect sock size for you? Let’s talk.

 

 

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