Different Wool Fabrics: What They Are and Best For
Wool has? been used for centuries because it’s warm, strong, and naturally beautiful. But here’s the catch: “wool” is not just one fabric. It’s a big family of fibers, and each type feels and behaves differently. Some wools are super soft and smooth, while others are tougher and better for outdoor wear. In this guide, you’ll learn the most common types of wool fabric, what makes each one special, and what they’re best used for so you don’t buy the wrong “wool” and regret it later.
Merino Wool
Merino wool is famous for being very soft with fine fibers, so it usually feels comfortable on the skin. It comes from Merino sheep, which are widely raised in Australia and New Zealand. Merino is also known for strong warmth without feeling heavy, making it a favorite in fashion. Merino wool is often used for sweaters, scarves, base layers, and suits. Many people choose it when they want wool that feels less itchy and looks polished.
- Best for: soft everyday wear, layering, premium knitwear, Softer doesn’t always mean “no itch” if the fabric is low-quality or poorly finished.
- Typical items: sweaters, scarves, suits
- Main sources: Australia + New Zealand.
Cashmere (from Cashmere goats)
Cashmere is one of the most luxurious wool types in the world. It comes from the soft undercoat of Cashmere goats, mainly found in places like India, Nepal, and Mongolia. What makes cashmere special is its lightweight warmth and buttery softness. Cashmere is used for high-end pieces like sweaters, shawls, pashminas, and scarves. It’s often expensive, but many people see it as an “investment fabric” for comfort and style.
- Best for: luxury softness + warmth without heavy weight. Cashmere can pill (form little fuzz balls), especially if the fiber quality is lower.
- Typical items: sweaters, shawls, pashminas
- Main sources: India, Nepal, Mongolia
Lambswool
Lambswool comes from the first shearing of a young sheep, usually when it’s under seven months old. Because it’s the first coat, the fibers are often finer and softer than regular wool. Lambswool is a popular choice for sweaters, cardigans, blankets, and winter accessories. It provides cozy warmth and a classic wool look that suits many styles.
- Best for: warm knitwear, cozy winter basics. Lambswool is softer than many wools, but some people may still feel mild itch.
- Typical items: sweaters, cardigans, blankets
- Main sources: Lambs first shearing under 7 months
Alpaca Wool
Alpaca wool comes from alpacas native to South America. It’s loved for its soft feel and strong warmth, and many people with wool sensitivities prefer it because alpaca fiber is often gentler. Alpaca wool is used for sweaters, scarves, coats, and blankets. Another cool feature is that alpaca often comes in many natural shades, from cream to brown to black, which makes it great for earthy, natural-looking designs.
- Best for: warm and soft pieces, people sensitive to typical wool. “hypoallergenic” is a common claim, but comfort can still vary by person and fabric finish.
- Typical items: Sweaters, scarves, blankets
- Main sources: Hypoallergenic + many natural colors
Mohair (Angora goat)
Mohair comes from the Angora goat, mainly bred in Turkey and South Africa. Mohair fibers are known for being long, silky, and shiny, giving fabrics a beautiful sheen and strong structure. Mohair is often used for coats, suits, knitwear, and upholstery, and it’s commonly blended with other fibers to improve durability and shape.
- Best for: shiny, stylish fabrics; structured garments; blends
- Typical items: coats, suits (often blended), upholstery
- Main sources: Turkey + South Africa.
Shetland wool
hetland wool comes from Shetland sheep in the Shetland Islands of Scotland. This wool is well known for being hardwearing and rugged, which makes it great for clothing meant to handle cold weather and outdoor use. Shetland wool is popular for sweaters, hats, and other winter essentials. It also has a unique charm because it often appears in earthy natural tones, giving it a classic heritage look.
- Best for: outdoor warmth, durable knitwear, classic rustic style. Shetland is usually more textured than Merino, so it may not feel as soft on bare skin.
- Typical items: sweaters, hats
