Sheep wool is a noble fiber and the most important fiber of animal origin. It has advantages over synthetic fibers because it is natural, produced from renewable resources and in environmentally sustainable ways.
Wool is elastic and has a high hygroscopic or "breathing" capacity, which means that when it is cold and wet, wool absorbs moisture and provides warmth to the body; and when the day is hot and dry, wool releases moisture and absorbs body heat, providing a feeling of freshness. It is also an effective thermal insulator, fire resistant and antimicrobial. In addition, it is an environmentally friendly product, as it is biodegradable and its production does not require the consumption of fossil fuels.
In Chile, Patagonia is the main geographical area where the sheep that produce wool are raised. This area has privileged conditions for the free rearing of sheep in the pastures, through the extensive livestock farming method, which contributes to animal welfare and favors the production of superior quality wool.
The cold, dry climate of Patagonia allows the wool to obtain whiter colors than is possible in temperate climates. In addition, the short pastures provide minimal plant matter in the fleeces.
All this combination of virtues makes Patagonian wool stand out in international markets, where its main attractions shine: length of wick, whiteness, resistance, brightness and low vegetable matter content.
Over time, wool has gone from being a "commodity" to a "speciality", basically because consumers have changed and today are more aware of the processes of the products they buy, seeking better quality and responsibly produced products.
For example, in clothing, they look for softness and lightness. Clothing that can be worn directly on the skin and that does not itch, and also that can be worn in different seasons of the year. Sheep wool, thanks to its natural properties, is very effective in resisting bacterial build-up compared to other textiles.
In addition to apparel, wool is an excellent choice for interior applications, such as rugs and upholstery, because it offers durability, comfort and safety, while helping to improve indoor atmospheric conditions.
