Why Choose Wool: The 12 Benefits of Super Geelong Lambswool
- Helen Deely
- Jul 15
- 5 min read
Updated: Jul 16
Let’s be honest, wool probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when it’s 28°C outside. But with July being Plastic Free Month, now feels like the perfect time to talk about why natural fibres like wool deserve a place in our wardrobes all year round.
At events, I often hear people say, “Ooh, that’s so soft, is it cashmere?” The answer is always “No…” followed by a big BUT and a little explanation. Because while it’s not cashmere, it’s something just as gorgeously soft: Super Geelong lambswool. It’s super soft, breathable, and made from nature....not oil.
So What Is Super Geelong Lambswool?
Super Geelong lambswool is a super fine wool made from the first shearing of Merino lambs raised in the Geelong region of Australia. These ultra-fine fibers are incredibly soft (around 17–19 microns in diameter), making them one of the closest natural rivals to cashmere in both feel and warmth.
Unlike traditional lambswool, Super Geelong is smoother, lighter, and gentler against the skin. It has the comforting warmth of wool, but without the bulk or itchiness that some people associate with coarser yarns.
Super Geelong vs. Merino Lambswool
Merino wool is already a well-respected and widely used fibre, known for its softness, warmth, and breathability. Super Geelong is a finer version of Merino, selected from only the softest, youngest lambs and spun to a higher standard. Here’s a quick comparison to help to visually see the difference between the two fibres:
Feature | Super Geelong | Merino Lambswool |
Softness | Ultra-soft, like cashmere | Soft, slightly firmer |
Fibre Diameter | 17–19 microns | 18–24 microns |
Weight | Light and lofty | Slightly denser |
Feel Against Skin | Silky, no itch | Generally soft |
Uses | Premium knitwear, scarves, accessories | Everyday knits, base layers |
One of the key benefits of Super Geelong is its ability to deliver maximum warmth with minimal weight, perfect for wearing every day without feeling overdressed or bulky.
Why Choose Wool at All?
In a world full of synthetic fabrics (and microplastics), wool is a planet-friendly hero that’s been quietly doing its job for thousands of years.
Wool's natural benefits are often overlooked in favour of cheaper synthetic alternatives. The Campaign for Wool, founded by King Charles, continues to highlight the ecological benefits of wool and the environmental cost of man-made fibres. Microplastic pollution, fossil fuel reliance, and landfill waste are all issues tied to synthetic fabrics. By contrast, wool is:
Planet-friendly
Renewable
Fully biodegradable
Let’s explore just how remarkable wool really is, here are 12 powerful reasons to love and wear it.
The 12 Benefits of Wool (Especially Super Geelong Lambswool)
1. 100% Natural
Wool grows naturally on sheep. No factories, no plastic, just grass, water, and fresh air. Unlike synthetic fibres made from oil, wool is entirely natural and breathable. It’s grown, not made.
2. Renewable
Sheep grow a fresh fleece every year, ready to be shorn in spring or summer. No drilling, no digging, just a haircut and they’re good to go again.
3. Breathable
Wool lets your skin breathe. It cleverly moves moisture away from your body, helping you stay comfortable and not clammy, even when you're wearing a few layers.
4. Biodegradable
When wool eventually reaches the end of its life, it breaks down naturally in soil, adding nutrients back to the earth. No landfill guilt, no microplastics, just nature doing its thing.
5. Temperature Regulating
Wool’s like a built-in thermostat. It keeps you warm when it’s chilly and cool when it’s not, here's how it works:
Moisture Wicking. It moves moisture away from your skin so you don’t feel damp.
It adapts to your body temperature, keeping you comfy in changing weather. Perfect for everything from wintry walks to those ‘four seasons in a day’ kind of days.
6. Soft on Skin
Forget scratchy old school jumpers, Super Geelong lambswool is seriously soft. The fibres are extra fine and bouncy, making it perfect for scarves, hats, and anything close to your skin. Cosy, not itchy.
7. Stain-Resistant
Wool naturally repels stains thanks to a light waxy coating called lanolin. That means minor spills or marks are less likely to soak in and often just brush off. A win for anyone who drinks tea while wearing knitwear!
8. Smell-Resistant
One of the great things about wool is that it doesn’t hold onto smells like synthetic fibres do. You can wear it multiple times without it getting whiffy, which means less washing and more wearing. Ideal for busy days, travelling, or just staying cosy without the laundry pile.
9. Hypoallergenic
Wool naturally resists dust mites and mould, making it a great option for allergy or asthma sufferers. Plus, it breathes, so you’re less likely to overheat or get irritated skin.
10. UV Protection
Wool gives you a bit of extra cover in the sun too. Merino wool, in particular, offers excellent UV protection—often better than cotton or synthetics. Handy for bright winter days or summer layering.
11. Fire-Resistant
Wool doesn’t catch fire easily, and if it does, it won’t melt or release nasty fumes like synthetic fabrics. With its high ignition point, it’s a safer choice for both clothing and around the home.
12. Durable & Long-Lasting
Wool’s springy fibres mean it bounces back, holds its shape, and resists creases. Look after it properly, and a beautiful wool piece will last for years, maybe even decades.
In Summary
Super Geelong lambswool combines the best of nature and comfort: it’s beautifully soft, lightweight, breathable, and a joy to wear. While it shares many of the luxurious qualities of cashmere, it doesn’t come with such a high price tag. Making it a more affordable, long-lasting choice for everyday knitwear. And as a natural fibre, it’s far gentler on the planet than synthetic alternatives, offering a biodegradable, renewable, and responsible option for those who value slow fashion.
Would you like to explore the softness for yourself? Browse our knitwear collection made from Super Geelong lambswool
And if you're curious about where your wool comes from, keep an eye out for my next blog, where I'll be sharing why it's so important to me to use ethical, responsibly sourced wool.
Glossary
Yarn Can be made from any fibre twisted.
Wool A fibre produced from the yarn produced by sheep. Cashmere A luxury fibre obtained from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats. Known for its warmth, softness, and fine texture.
Geelong Lambswool A high-quality wool sourced from the first shearing of Merino lambs, often raised in the Geelong region of Australia. Known for its exceptional softness and lightness.
Lambswool Wool from a lamb’s first shearing, typically softer and finer than wool from older sheep.
Merino Wool A type of wool from the Merino breed of sheep. Finer and softer than regular wool, it’s known for being breathable, temperature regulating, and suitable for next-to-skin wear.
Microns A unit of measurement (one-millionth of a metre) used to describe the diameter of wool fibres. The lower the micron count, the finer—and typically softer—the wool.
For example:
Super Geelong: ~17–19 microns
Standard Merino: ~18–24 microns
Human hair: ~50–100 microns
Moisture Wicking The ability of a fabric to draw moisture away from the skin and allow it to evaporate. Keeps the wearer dry and comfortable.
Odour Resistant The ability of a fabric to prevent the build-up of smells by inhibiting bacterial growth. Wool’s natural antimicrobial properties make it excellent at this.
Temperature Regulating The capacity of a material to help maintain a comfortable body temperature by responding to heat and moisture—cooling you when you’re hot, and warming you when you’re cold.
Biodegradable A material that naturally breaks down in the environment without leaving harmful residues or microplastics.
Hypoallergenic Less likely to cause allergic reactions. Wool is naturally resistant to dust mites and mildew, making it suitable for many people with sensitivities or asthma.
Lanolin A natural wax found in sheep’s wool that helps repel water and dirt. It contributes to wool’s stain resistance and softness.
UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) A rating that indicates how much UV radiation a fabric allows to reach your skin. Higher numbers mean better protection. Wool can naturally offer high UPF ratings (30–50+).
Synthetic Man made fibres from petroleum based chemicals. Not biodegradable.
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