Our approach to wool
The natural crimp of wool fiber creates insulating air spaces that make wool feel warm. Because wool can absorb perspiration/moisture, lightweight wool fabrics can help keep you cool, as well as warm. Wool is also naturally resistant to bacteria.
Thought to be the oldest breed of sheep in the world, Merino are known to thrive in extreme climates, like the high country of New Zealand. Their wool is hygroscopic; it can absorb 30% of its weight in sweat and moisture, making it a smart choice for all outdoor activities. The natural crimp of Merino wool fiber creates insulating air spaces, which enables excess heat to escape. It’s lightweight, natural and best of all, durable when taken care of properly.
At Helly Hansen, the main application of wool is in our base layer collections. Each individual sheep’s fleece is hand-selected. A highly skilled ‘classer’ inspects the fiber quality and assesses whether it meets the grade. That way, you know you’re only getting the best quality in your Helly Hansen base layers.
We work with ZQ and RWS certifications. See individual product pages for more details
Wool is a natural fiber that has excellent thermal properties, but these fibers can felt (tangle) under mechanical friction, pressure, and heat when humid. Extra attention needs to be given to your wool products during the washing and drying cycles in order to keep the garments in their best condition.
Always check the care label and follow the instructions. However, here are some general guidelines on how to wash woollen products. These should not replace the instructions on the care label.
We recommend that you always use the ‘wool’ program on your washing machine if the care label instructions mention it. Use wool detergent and avoid standard washing detergents. To help keep the original shape of the garment, lay the garment flat when drying. Do not twist the garment to remove excess water.
If hand-wash instructions are mentioned in the care label, make sure not to rub or agitate the garment when wet and handle with care. Use wool detergent and avoid standard washing detergents.
Do not use heat to dry your wool products.
Always check the care label and follow the instructions. However, here are some general guidelines on how to wash Lifa® products. These should not replace the instructions on the care label.
– Lifa® products are machine washable; follow the care instructions for temperature and cycle. We recommend using the wool program for these products.
– Do not tumble or heat dry. Only air/hang to dry.
– Always use the least amount of detergent as possible and if the base layer contains wool (Lifa® Merino), please use wool detergents.
Due to the nature of these products, we can recommend to hand wash directly after each use in lukewarm water to avoid bacteria and odor build up.
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Bringing Regenerative Farming Standards to Wool Base Layers with ZQRX
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