We love the outdoors. That much is evident by how many of us go hunting, fishing, and hiking. We love getting out in nature anywhere in the world and exploring our surroundings. Many of us also work outdoors – be it in farming, construction, conservation, or something else.
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But whether you work outside or play outside, you need outdoor wear and workwear that tick all the boxes for comfort and versatility. Shopping for such clothing can be challenging, but we think natural is the best choice. Read on to find out why.
Layering with Natural and Wool Products
When you think of winter workwear and outdoor clothing, you might picture a woolly sweater to provide you with all the warmth you need. In reality, to achieve optimum warmth and comfort there is a more extensive product range, and layering with natural and wool products is key.
Start with a merino thermal base layer and work your way up. You can also keep your feet, hands, and head warm with socks, gloves, and beanies made with wool or possum merino wool natural fibres.
The Benefits of Natural Fibres
New Zealanders face challenging outdoor environments every day. From searing sunshine to crisp mornings and icy winds, they see it all. To combat those conditions, they make use of natural materials that would see them comfortable in all situations.
So, if workwear and outdoor wear are suitable for New Zealand’s harsh environments, then they will be ideal for almost anywhere in the world. There are some excellent benefits associated with natural fibres.
Breathability
The breathability of natural fibre workwear and outdoor wear will surprise you. Whether you wear it next to your skin or in layers, you can take full advantage of it. Wool can wick away moisture to leave you dry and comfortable year-round.
Multi-Climate
Temperatures can change at the drop of a hat. Very few synthetic materials can react accordingly, but natural fibres can. Wool reacts to your body’s temperature. It can keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. There’s a reason why it’s a natural insulator in homes.
Odour-Resistant
Wool fibres, unlike synthetic ones, have unique properties that make them odour-resistant. They are capable of absorbing 30 times as much moisture as polyester, and twice as much as cotton. As a result, they prevent a build-up of bacteria, sweat, and unpleasant odours.
Stretch Ability
The last thing any outdoor enthusiast wants is to be restricted in their activities by what they are wearing. That’s where natural fibres triumph. Wool has natural elasticity and stretches with your body.
Natural Winter Workwear and Outdoor Wear
Knowing just how beneficial natural fibres can be for working and outdoor activities, what happens next? Well, you can take advantage of natural garments on the market. For example, the 36.6 range is growing in popularity all the time – and for a good reason.
Anyone working or exploring in cold weather may see the value in the Tasman Jersey from the 36.6 range. It has a unique dual layering of a soft merino possum lining and a hard-wearing wool outer layer. This jersey ticks all the boxes for comfort and warmth, but performance, too. It moves with your body, cuts out wind, and retains your optimum body temperature of 36.6°C.
As the mercury rises, you can also opt for single dual-layer options, such as the Endurance sweater. These make use of double knitting techniques consisting of weaving together high-performance yarns into one layer. Possum merino wool forms the internal layer, while polypropylene makes up the outer layer.
Workwear and outdoor wear are not only versatile in their construction but style, too. Ecowool sells an eco-blend vest which suits women working and exploring in various weather conditions. The vests are created using possum fibre, silk, wool, and angora wool that is usually discarded during yarn manufacturing processes. It’s gathered together and respun into a comfortable, versatile garment.
Considerations for Choosing Winter Workwear and Outdoor Wear
Choosing the best winter workwear and outdoor wear for your unique situation can take some time. However, there are four points to consider before you do; warmth, versatility, protection, and durability.
Warmth
Our core body temperature is between 36.5 and 37.5°C. Maintaining this temperature is paramount for our performance in the great outdoors. So, when the time comes to choose natural workwear and outdoor wear, warmth is an essential factor. Natural fibres such as wool have all the features to keep you warm in winter and cool in summer.
Durability
Finding clothing that exceeds your expectations in all environments is a challenge, but it’s not impossible. Wool is breathable, easy-care, biodegradable, safe, thanks to its UV protection, renewable, and natural. All these features ensure that it’s suitable for a wide variety of industries and activities.
Protection
The elements can take their toll on our bodies, which is why having a protective layer can be exceptionally valuable. Wool has a naturally high level of UV protection, while also being fire-retardant. Natural garments also protect your body by maintaining your core body temperature.
Versatility
Life isn’t about all work and no play. It’s crucial to strike a balance, and natural garments are with you every step of the way. A key feature in natural workwear and outdoor wear is being able to use it in a variety of situations. Whether you’re farming or fishing, in construction or recreation, it will adapt with you.
Conclusion
While there are plenty of workwear and outdoor wear options on the market, they don’t all offer the same level of comfort in your everyday life. Why not check out natural fibres and notice how they tick all the boxes for durability, comfort, strength, and more?
FAQs
What are the benefits of layering with natural and wool products?
Layering with natural and wool products provides optimal warmth and comfort by utilising a wider range of clothing options. These layers offer effective temperature regulation, moisture-wicking properties, and insulation, allowing individuals to adapt their clothing to varying weather conditions.
How does wool react to changing temperatures?
Wool reacts to changing temperatures by naturally adjusting to the body’s heat. It keeps individuals warm in colder conditions by trapping air within its fibres, while its breathability prevents overheating in warmer weather. This adaptability makes wool a reliable insulator for both winter and summer activities.