Wool is a natural insulating material that is grown by many animals, but the wool, which is normally used in clothes production, is that of sheep, more rarely, that of camel, rabbit, apaca or musk ox. Wool consists of a great multitude of overlapping fibers made of protein. The protein component in wool has a capability of absorbing a great amount of moisture and still remaining comparatively dry. The scales, that wool fibers consist of, are hard, elastic and water resistant. Another regular component of wool is natural grease, called lanolin. It is efficiently protects animals from cold, as it significantly reduces the heat flow, and it also serves as a water repellant. The fact that wool fibers are so elastic prevents the air spaces between them from being broken, and the insulating effect is perpetually retained.

The range of wool clothing offered by manufacturers today is amazing indeed, but its peculiar qualities make it especially indispensable for the production of outdoor garments. Wool clothing is known for the ability to keep skin warm and dry. The warmth is brought about by the insulating effect produced by air gaps within the wool texture. The dryness is preserved due to the fact that the wool fiber absorbs perspiration and, thus, producing a cooling effect and leaving the skin warm to the desirable degree. An amazing property of wool is that of being able to adjust the degree of insulation corresponding to the type of activity and to suit the temperature on the outside.

The wool of the same species of animals may be very different depending on the type of nature conditions in the area of the animal inhabits. It is true with sheep, while domestic ones are selectively bred to produce a special variety of wool, that would be ultimately suitable for some specific purpose. For example, finer types are desirable for wool clothing production, while coarse wools are great for carpets. Textile manufacturers have a possibility to select the exact type of wool that is needed.

One of the most renowned types of wool is produced by Merino sheep bred in Australia. They are the source of very fine wool, which can be further treated in a special way to make wool clothing tolerant to being washed and tumble dried with no detrimental effect of its wonderful qualities. Wool clothing made of fine material is very warm and at the same time smooth and gentle to the skin, causing no unpleasant itching or irritation.

People have used wool for a very long time now both as fleece and as a source of material for textiles. This natural substance is also fire-resistant, it does not support flame and will not melt if it is heated to even a great degree, which is a very significant factor for the production of wool clothing for people who are exposed to high temperatures.

Wool processing methods are very versatile, depending on whether the yarn is produced of finer wool fibers or of those more thick and stiff. The processes of knitting and weaving can also be different, but, nevertheless, the result (whether it is a wool coat or a wool sweater) is sure to make use of the wool's beneficial qualities.