The RWS (Responsible Wool Standard) certification is a globally recognized standard that ensures wool comes from farms that meet strict animal welfare and land management requirements. It is designed to promote responsible wool production by ensuring ethical treatment of sheep and sustainable farming practices.

Why is RWS certification beneficial?

1. Animal Welfare: It guarantees that sheep are treated humanely, with no unnecessary harm or suffering (e.g., no mulesing).
2. Sustainability: Encourages environmentally responsible land management to protect biodiversity and prevent overgrazing.
3. Traceability: Ensures transparency by tracking wool from farm to final product, reducing the risk of unethical sourcing.
4. Consumer Trust: Gives brands and consumers confidence that the wool they purchase aligns with high ethical and sustainability standards.

RWS certification is valuable for both businesses and consumers who want to support more ethical and sustainable wool production.

When talking about Merino wool, micron refers to the diameter of the wool fiber, measured in micrometers (µm). It is the key factor in determining the softness, quality, and use of the wool.

Why is Micron Important?

• Finer wool (lower micron count) → Softer and more luxurious (e.g., next-to-skin clothing).
• Thicker wool (higher micron count) → More durable and insulating (e.g., outerwear, blankets).

Micron Ranges for Merino Wool

• Ultrafine: < 15.5 µm (very rare, extremely soft, luxury garments)
• Superfine: 15.6 – 18.5 µm (high-end base layers, soft sweaters)
• Fine: 18.6 – 20.5 µm (everyday clothing, activewear)
• Medium: 20.6 – 22.5 µm (mid-layers, general apparel)
• Strong: > 22.6 µm (outerwear, blankets, upholstery)

Micron & Softness

The lower the micron count, the softer and less itchy the wool feels. High-quality Merino wool used in premium base layers is often 17-19 microns, making it exceptionally comfortable against the skin.

Choosing Merino wool over polyester as a baselayer depends on your priorities, but Merino often comes out on top for comfort, performance, and sustainability. Here’s why:

1. Breathability & Moisture Management

✅ Merino Wool: Naturally wicks moisture away from the skin and absorbs up to 30% of its weight in water before feeling damp. This helps regulate body temperature and keeps you dry.
❌ Polyester: Wicks moisture quickly but does not absorb it, which can lead to a clammy, sticky feeling.

2. Odor Resistance

✅ Merino Wool: Naturally antibacterial due to lanolin, preventing odor buildup—even after multiple wears without washing.
❌ Polyester: Retains odors, often requiring antimicrobial treatments that wear off over time.

3. Temperature Regulation

✅ Merino Wool: Provides natural thermoregulation, keeping you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot.
❌ Polyester: Primarily designed to wick sweat, but it doesn’t regulate temperature as effectively.

4. Comfort & Softness

✅ Merino Wool: Fine fibers (usually 17-19 microns) make it incredibly soft, reducing itchiness.
❌ Polyester: Can feel rough or synthetic against the skin, especially in cheaper versions.

5. Sustainability & Environmental Impact

✅ Merino Wool: Biodegradable & renewable, with a smaller long-term environmental footprint.
❌ Polyester: Made from petroleum-based plastics, contributing to microplastic pollution when washed.

When to Choose Polyester?

• If cost is a major factor (polyester is generally cheaper).
• For high-intensity activities where quick-dry properties are more important than odor resistance.
• If you prefer a durable, abrasion-resistant option for rough conditions.

Verdict: Merino Wool Wins for Comfort & Versatility

For a comfortable, odor-resistant, and temperature-regulating baselayer—especially for hiking, travel, or multi-day use—Merino wool is the superior choice.