Fabric TreatmentsUpdated 2 months ago
Superwash Process (all garments):
All of our merino wool is treated in a process known as superwashing which is used on all performance wool fabrics to make them machine washable, resistant to shrinking, and extend their lifespan.
First, the wool is washed to remove the lanolin from the wool, which is necessary for the fiber to be able to wick moisture from our bodies, and for it to absorb water during the washing process. Next, a chlorine solution is used to strip the keratin plates from the fibers, which prevents felting and makes the fibers softer to the touch. Last, a resin coating is applied to the wool, which further stabilizes the fiber, enabling it to be washed in a machine, while retaining all the benefits inherent to wool fiber and extending the lifespan of the garment considerably.
Our factories employ a closed-loop process for superwashing, wherein the solutions are used as many times as possible and disposed of properly, reducing the negative environmental impacts. Our resins also do not contribute to microplastics in the environment and have been tested to show decomposition and biodegradability rates better than untreated wool. We also use a 5-stage water treatment plant to ensure no impacts from dyes or mordants on local waterways.
Merino Edge Cool Steam Treatment (24 hour collection):
Our 24 Hour fabric is finished using a 100% natural proprietary steaming process also known as ‘decatizing’ or ‘mercerizing’. This type of treatment gives the fabric a smooth, lustrous finish, making it smooth and cool to the touch, almost like a synthetic fabric, while still retaining all of the amazing properties of the wool fiber. Most commonly used steaming processes utilize chemicals and solvents that have harmful impacts on the environment and the technicians who employ them, whereas ours does not. This process also further stabilizes the wool to reduce pilling and shrinking.
Durable Water Repellant (DWR) water resistant treatment (Wool Aire):
The face fabric on our Wool Aire collection is treated with a PFC/PFA free DWR treatment in order to improve water repellency.