Is Merino Wool Itchy?

When most people think of wool, they often imagine heavy, scratchy jumpers that irritate the skin. And with traditional wool, that reputation isn’t entirely unfair. But Merino wool is a different story.

Whatever your activity, from hiking to relaxing, comfort matters. At Isobaa, we specialise in Merino wool and understand how important it is to clear up common myths — starting with the question: Is Merino wool itchy?

Let’s look at the facts.

 

What makes wool itchy?

Understanding why some wool itches helps explain why Merino doesn’t. Here are the key factors:

• Fibre diameter

  Wool fibres over 30 microns are thick and rigid enough to poke the skin — causing irritation.

• Cuticle scales

  All wool fibres have surface scales. In coarser wool, these are more pronounced, making the fabric feel rough.

• Sensitive skin

  If you have eczema or sensitive skin, you’re naturally more reactive to coarse fibres.

• Processing quality

  Low-grade wool can contain chemical residues, lanolin, or debris, which may also cause itching.

So, is Merino wool itchy?

No, not when it’s high quality. Merino wool is famously soft, and here’s why:

• Finer fibres

  Merino fibres range from 15 to 24 microns. These bend easily against the skin rather than prickle it.

• Smooth texture

  The structure of superfine Merino gives it a naturally soft, silk-like feel — nothing like that old-school itchy jumper.

• Skin-friendly processing

  At Isobaa, we primarily use 18.5 micron superfine Merino wool, processed without harsh chemicals and designed for next-to-skin comfort.

You can learn more about Merino wool grades any why they matter in our guide below.

Understanding Merino grades

Is Merino wool good for sensitive skin?

Yes. In fact, superfine Merino wool is recommended for sensitive skin, including in babies and people with eczema.

A study in the British Journal of Dermatology found that superfine Merino actually improved symptoms in children with eczema.

This makes Merino a great choice for those who usually avoid wool due to irritation.

Key benefits of Merino wool

Here’s why Merino belongs in your wardrobe:

• Breathable

  Keeps you cool in summer, warm in winter.

• Moisture-wicking

  Pulls sweat away from the skin — no clammy feeling

• Odour-resistant

  Naturally resists bacteria, making it ideal for activewear and travel.

• Ultra-soft

  Finer than human hair. Seriously.

• Sustainable

  Renewable, biodegradable, and responsibly sourced.

Discover all benefits

How to choose non-itchy Merino wool clothing

Not all Merino is made equal. Follow these tips to avoid irritation:

• Check the micron rating

  Look for 18.5 microns or lower for the softest feel.

• Look for superfine or ultrafine labels

  These indicate better softness and higher quality.

• Avoid synthetic blends

  Mixing Merino with synthetic fibres can reduce softness and breathability.

• Follow care instructions

  Proper washing helps maintain the fabric’s natural softness.

• Buy from trusted brands

  Look for brands that clearly list specs and use ethical production methods.

Can Merino wool ever be itchy?

While rare, some situations can affect comfort:

• Coarser Merino blends or garments above 24 microns.

• Improper processing or leftover residues.

• Highly sensitive skin (though this is rare with superfine Merino).

But if you choose 18.5 micron Merino, like the majority of our range at Isobaa, you’re almost guaranteed an itch-free experience.

FAQs

 

Final verdict: is Merino wool itchy?

No — when it's high-quality, like the superfine 18.5 micron Merino used at Isobaa, it’s anything but.

You get the natural performance of wool — warmth, breathability, odour-resistance — without the scratch.