Merino Wool: A History of Innovation

Merino wool is one of nature's most remarkable fibers. Prized for its luxurious softness, unparalleled warmth, and exceptional moisture management, it's easy to see why merino has been a favorite for generations. But this wonder-fiber's story isn't just about how it feels or performs—it's also a fascinating tale of human ingenuity, adaptation, and the relentless drive for improvement.

Ancient Origins

Merino sheep are believed to have originated in North Africa, eventually finding their way to Spain during the 12th century. Spanish farmers quickly recognised the incredible potential of this breed's fine, soft wool, and through careful selective breeding, refined the Merino into a textile superstar. For centuries, Spain held a tight monopoly on Merino sheep, their export strictly forbidden.

A Global Journey

The 18th century saw the beginning of Merino's expansion beyond Spain. Despite export restrictions, small flocks of these prized sheep made their way to other parts of Europe, and later to the colonies—most notably Australia and New Zealand.

Australasian farmers, confronted with a vastly different climate from that of Spain, began their own journey of innovation. They adapted and improved Merino sheep, refining them for the rugged conditions of their new home. The result was a fleece surpassing even its Spanish ancestors in fineness and quality.

Innovation Beyond the Sheep

The innovations surrounding Merino wool haven't been limited to sheep breeding. In the 20th century, especially post-World War II, we saw a surge of advancements in textile processing and garment design.

Merino Today: Sustainable and Responsible

As we face the realities of climate change and the need for more sustainable materials, merino wool stands out as a natural fiber that offers exceptional properties without the environmental drawbacks of many synthetics.

Responsible merino brands are committed to:

Isobaa and the Merino Legacy

We arrived on the scene in 2016 with a simple yet profound belief: that moments spent in the fresh air are the best kind. Our mission was to create clothing that maximises those moments. Each Isobaa garment is thoughtfully crafted, harnessing the power of merino wool and other natural materials. Because we know the weather can be fickle and adventures range from wild to cosy, we create versatile, comfortable styles that keep up – whether you're roaming windswept hills or snuggling on the couch with a cuppa.

We treat our sheep and their precious wool with the respect they deserve. That means meticulous attention to detail at every stage, ensuring you can feel truly good about what you wear. We all leave a footprint on the earth, and we believe even small choices make a difference. By using recycled materials wherever possible and championing natural fibers, we minimise our impact while drawing inspiration from nature itself.

Our merino is sourced from an Australian supplier whose heritage dates back to 1857. Their sheep are never subjected to the cruel practice of mulesing, making our garments not just natural and sustainable, but cruelty-free. All Isobaa garments are also OEKO-TEX certified, guaranteeing that even the dyes and fabric treatments uphold the highest standards.

In innovation, we're always looking to push boundaries. In 2019, we became one of the first outdoor brands to introduce jackets with recovered merino wool insulation. This groundbreaking step combines cutting-edge warmth with a focus on sustainability. Unlike down, our merino insulation stays warm even when wet, offering worry-free weather protection while ensuring wool fibers are repurposed rather than wasted.

The Future of Merino

Merino wool's history of innovation is far from over. Researchers and brands are exploring exciting new possibilities:

Merino wool has come a long way since its humble beginnings. Its future is bound to be even more exciting.