So, what are those beneficial properties?
Temperature Regulation
Merino wool adapts to your body’s needs. It provides a degree of warmth when it’s cold and offers breathability when it’s warmer. So, in the case of Whitewater’s Merino Fishing Hoodie, it can perform as a lone outer-layer if it’s warm – or – there’s a bit of a nip in the air. Additionally, the Merino Fishing Hoodie serves as the ultimate mid-layer under raingear, such as Whitewater’s Great Lakes Pro and Tamer jacket.
Sun Protection
Perhaps surprising to some, Merino fibers possess natural pigments that absorb UV light. This inherent UV resistance provides some level of sun protection, but not enough for Whitewater. They jacked up the sun protection on the Merino Fishing Hoodie to 50+ UPF.
Odor Resistance
While Whitewater is famous for its antimicrobial treatments, in the case of the Merino Hoodie, the fabric alone offers native antimicrobial properties. This comes from a sheep’s ability to produce a natural wax (sheep grease) that repels water and prevents the accumulation of bacteria, mold, and fungus.
Moisture Wicking
Specialty fabrics and treatments, including some of those from Whitewater, are purposed for wicking moisture off your skin. Merino wool? It naturally lifts perspiration off and away as it does for sheep. Mother Nature is amazing…
Elasticity
Unlike conventional wool, Merino wool offers a degree of elasticity. Meaning, the fabric holds its shape. For the purposes of the Merino Fishing Hoodie, Whitewater blended in nylon and elastane to add the stretch and motion-promotion required for fishing.
Comfort and Softness
This is the no-brainer. Instantly feel the softness with one touch of the fabric. This softness translates into unrivaled comfort against your skin.
Hypoallergenic
Maybe not a requirement for fishing, but it’s factual, nonetheless. Merino wool is officially recognized as asthma and allergy friendly by the international certification body Allergy Standards Limited (ASL).
Fire-Resistant
Yes, it’s true. Merino wool fibers are difficult to ignite, have limited ability to sustain a flame, and can self-extinguish. Merino wool clothing is worn by firemen, police, soldiers, and rescue teams because of its natural fire protection.