PROPERTIES OF THE YARN FIBRES THAT I HAVE USED IN MY SOCKS
WOOL
Insulation: Wool is known for its excellent insulation properties. It can provide warmth in cold weather and will breathe in warmer conditions.
Moisture-wicking: Wool can absorb and release moisture, staying dry and comfortable.
Odour resistance: Wool has natural antimicrobial properties, reducing the buildup of odour.
Durability: Wool fibres are resilient and can with-stand stretching and bending.
Bio-degradable: Wool is a natural fibre, so it is 100% bio-degradable.
Colour Options: Wool can have a limited colour range and it can be difficult to find vibrant coloured yarn.
Pilling: Wool does have a tendency to pill so is often mixed with other fibres to reduce this.
MERINO
Softness: Merino wool is exceptionally soft and comfortable against the skin.
Temperature regulation: Like regular wool, Merino regulates body temperature effectively.
Odour resistance: Merino has natural antibacterial properties, minimising odours.
Bio-degradable: Merino is a natural fibre, so it is 100% bio-degradable.
ALPACA
Softness: Alpaca fibres are soft and luxurious.
Warmth: Alpaca is warmer than wool and has excellent thermal insulation properties.
Hypoallergenic: Alpaca fibres are hypoallergenic, so ideal for anyone with allergies.
Bio-degradable: Alpaca is a natural fibre, so it is 100% bio-degradable.
HEMP
Breathability: Hemp is highly breathable, making it very suitable for warm weather.
Durable: Hemp fibres are strong and durable, with the ability to withstand wear and tear.
Bio-degradable: Hemp is a natural fibre, so it is 100% bio-degradable.
Softness: Hemp isn't as soft as other fibres so it is best blended with other softer fibres like Merino and Alpaca.
LINEN
Breathability: Linen is highly breathable and keeps the wearer cool in hot weather.
Absorbency: Linen can absorb a significant amount of moisture without feeling damp.
Durable: Linen fibres are strong and become softer with each wash.
Bio-degradable: Linen is a natural fibre, so it is 100% bio-degradable.
ACRYLIC
Easy care: Acrylic is machine washable and is generally very low-maintenance.
Colour retention: Acrylic fibres hold colour well and is resistant to fading, so you have many more vibrant colour options, than with many other fibres.
Hypoallergenic: Acrylic fibres are hypoallergenic, so ideal for anyone with allergies.
Lightweight: Acrylic is a lightweight fibre.
Durable: Acrylic fibres are strong and durable, so is very hard wearing.
Stability: Often combined with other fibres like wool and cotton to stabilise a blend, which means less deterioration.
Softness: Acrylic is a really soft fibre so when blended with wool, linen and cotton, it will improve it from feeling synthetic.
MOHAIR
Luster: Mohair has a natural sheen or lustre.
Insulation: Mohair provides good insulation while remaining lightweight.
Bio-degradable: Mohair is a natural fibre, so it is 100% bio-degradable.
Durable: Mohair fibres are considered to be one of the world's most durable.
Flame Retardant: Mohair is extremely fire resistant.
Dye-ability: Mohair yarn dyes easily and brilliantly.
POSSUM
Softness: Possum fibre is known for its exceptional softness and the yarn is almost furry in appearance.
Warmth: Possum fur has excellent insulating properties, providing warmth without the weight. It is often blended with other fibers like merino wool to enhance its insulation capabilities.
Lightweight: Possum fibre is lightweight, making it comfortable to wear.
Moisture-wicking: Possum fibres have natural moisture-wicking properties.
Odour resistance: Possum fur has natural antimicrobial properties that reduce the growth of bacteria and minimise odours.
Durability: Possum fibres are durable and resistant to pilling.
Hypoallergenic: Possum fur is hypoallergenic, making it suitable for individuals with sensitivities to other fibres.
Bio-degradable: Possum is a natural fibre, so it is 100% bio-degradable.
Availability: Sadly, Possum is a NZ fibre and is becoming more difficult to find, especially in thicker yarn options.
COTTON
Breathability: Cotton is highly breathable and suitable for warm climates.
Softness: Cotton is soft and comfortable against the skin.
Absorbency: Cotton fibres absorb moisture.
Durable: Cotton fibres are durable and resistant to pilling.
Bio-degradable: Cotton is a natural fibre, so it is 100% bio-degradable.
NYLON
Abrasion resistance: Nylon has abrasion resistant properties.
Elasticity: Nylon is very elastic, so is often blended with other fibres like Mohair and Wool.
Durable: Nylon fibres are durable and resistant to pilling.
POLYAMIDE
Comfort: Polyamide is soft and has a silky feel, making it ideal for garments worn close to the skin.
Moisture management and breathability: Polyamide offers superior sweat management, enabling fabrics to keep the skin dry and is also breathable.
Strength and durability: Resistant to wear, tension and abrasion. Extremely durable, even after many washes.
VISCOSE (Rayon)
Softness: Viscose is known for its soft, luxurious appearance, and has a natural lustre.
Colour: Viscose yarn absorbs and holds dye well, therefore it has the ability to reflect vibrant, bold colours. Viscose is susceptible to fading in direct sunlight and can discolour if left wet for too long or spot cleaned.
Absorbency: Viscose is an absorbent fibre, however it is less durable when wet.
Warmth: Viscose does not retain heat well