Wool fleece is made from the hair of sheep and other animals shorn for use in clothing. It is a natural insulator and can be dyed to match your taste.
This fabric is very lightweight and warm but can be a little bulky when compared to a synthetic fleece. This is due to the process that goes into creating it. It is also a man-made fabric so it is not as eco friendly as a wool product would be.
It can be used in winter clothing, like a winter jacket or pullover and is great for hiking and camping because it is very breathable.
The fibers of the fleece are woven and brushed to create this fabric. Fleece is usually made from a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) type of synthetic material but it can also be made with cotton, hemp or other natural fibers.
Synthetic fleece does not shrink in the washing machine but it can be damaged when dried on high heat, especially if it is made from polyethylene terephthalate. It is a good idea to follow the directions on the manufacturer’s label for your specific fleece.
This does not mean that it is not a good option for cold warmth and weather clothing, but it is worth considering when choosing your base or mid layer. It can be a very economical choice if you are looking for a lightweight, breathable insulator.
If you are planning on spending a lot of time outdoors, then it would be best to choose a wool base or mid layer because this will prevent odors from developing and will dry very quickly on your skin when exposed to the elements. If you are going to be in the woods for a long period of time, then it would be best to choose merino wool for this reason as it will keep you warmer longer and will be more comfortable.
It is also very breathable so air can pass through and evaporate away the moisture in your body when you are perspiring.
Another advantage of wool is that it can trap your body heat in small air pockets that can be very beneficial to keep you warm. This is due to a chemical process called adsorption that occurs when water is absorbed into the fibers of the wool. This process causes the hydrogen bonds of the water to break down. The result is that the wool can trap your body’s own heat and keeps you warm even when it is wet.
The breathability of this fabric makes it a great option for summer clothes as well because the moisture will be able to escape and evaporate without getting trapped inside the fleece. It can be a bit more expensive than a synthetic fleece but the extra insulation and breathability of the wool makes it a great alternative to a cotton or down-based fabric.
The only downside to this fabric is that it can attract static electricity and make you feel a little uncomfortable if you are not careful with it. This is mostly an issue when you are wearing it around metal objects as you will find it more likely to build up a charge and attract dust, lint or hair that will cling to it. It is not a bad thing, but it can be annoying to those who are sensitive to this effect.