Why Wool for the Base Layers?

Children’s bodies grow rapidly inside and out, especially in the first six or seven years of their lives. Their parents form Their physical body, and then over time, they begin to create their own body out of a substance called warmth.  All through our lives, heat weaves unseen within us, maintaining our bodies’ health. Warmth is the foundation for health and physical well being.  A babies’ thermostat is new and not yet able to maintain a stable core temperature. When babies get too hot or too cold, it is much harder for them to cool down or warm-up.  Maintaining core body temperatures is where Warmth and Weather can be of support. There are three primary fibres used to make clothing; plant, mineral and animal fibres. 

Plant fibres such as cotton, linen, rayon all create a layer of protection from the elements. Cotton cloth is absorbent and will hold a great deal of moisture for a long time. When the weather is cold or damp, it can be challenging to get cotton to dry.  Absorbancy is what makes these fibres excellent for making diapers, dishcloths and mops. They can also do an excellent job of protecting us from scrapes, injuries and insect bites because of their strength. These fibres are cool, in temperature, by their nature and do not promote warmth, which makes it an unfavourable choice as a base layer.

Mineral-based fibres such as polyester, nylon, vinyl is created from the earth.  They are durable, protective and take a long time to break down and return to the planet and thus create a more substantial impact on the environment.  They do make great shoes, rainwear and snow gear, which protects us from the elements. These fibres are invaluable to those wanting to get outside.  As a base layer, they are not breathable, trapping excess heat and interfering with a healthy sense of being in one’s own body.

Animal fibres such as silk, wool, alpaca and mohair are fibres, that in their composition, are closest to the structure of the skin and carry great wisdom.  They are the most effective fibre for providing gentle warmth. Wool and silk keep us warm and yet can keep us cool in the summer because of its natural breathability.  Being breathable, it offers gentle warmth indoors without heat build-up and cozy warmth for outside fun.  These fibres move or wick away moisture from the skin to the outside of the clothing, helping to prevent clamminess, which leads to being wet and cold.  You can tell when your core temperature is enough when your hands and feet are as warm as your heart. Wool and silk also can clean and deodorize themselves if aired.  Early generations of wool were scratchy or picky.  Today’s merino wool is quite soft and comfortable. Our manufacturers use the longest fibres for making clothing as it makes it more delicate to the touch.  For those with sensitive skin, eczema and other skin allergies, organic wool/silk clothing is recommended. Silk soothes the skin like no other fabric.  It is soft and gentle, and as it’s an animal fibre, it provides vital warmth.