Imagine stepping out into a crisp summer day. It’s a comfortable 25°C, the sun is shining, and everything feels just right. But by late afternoon, the wind picks up and the temperature suddenly drops to 15°C. The change feels sharp, and without the right layers, it’s easy to catch a chill or worse, fall ill.
For people living in or traveling to places near the Arctic Circle — from Oslo to Ulaanbaatar — this isn’t just a seasonal concern. Even in the heart of summer, temperatures can swing dramatically throughout the day. And the story is much the same in high-altitude regions or coastal cities around the world where wind and weather can turn on a dime.
That’s where merino wool makes a difference, and where Deepwear comes in. As a global consultancy that supports fashion brands with sourcing and strategy, we help ensure that materials like merino wool are used meaningfully in products that are both functional and future-ready.
What Makes Merino Wool So Special?
Merino wool is not your average fiber — it’s a powerhouse of performance, comfort, and sustainability. Unlike traditional wool, merino fibers are much finer and softer, making them gentle against the skin while delivering serious warmth.
Here’s what sets it apart:
- Breathable and lightweight, yet surprisingly warm – Ideal for layering without the bulk.
- Temperature-regulating – It keeps you cool when it’s warm, and warm when it’s cold, reducing your need to constantly change outfits or add layers.
- Naturally sustainable and biodegradable – Sourced from merino sheep and requiring less frequent washing, merino supports both people and planet.
- Odor-resistant and moisture-wicking – Perfect for travelers, commuters, and anyone who lives in their clothes for more than a few hours at a time.
It’s no wonder merino wool is beloved by outdoor brands and urban labels alike. Whether you’re dressing for style, practicality, or both – merino wool simply delivers.
Deepwear’s Global Wool Sourcing Powerhouses
Recent figures from Volza’s Global Export data reveal a surge in global demand for merino wool. Between November 2023 and October 2024, the world recorded 26,028 shipments of merino wool — a 45% increase from the previous year. October 2024 alone saw 2,173 shipments, up 52% year-on-year. The top destinations include the United States, South Korea, and Vietnam, while leading exporters are Vietnam, Peru, and India.
Although Deepwear does not currently operate in those top three exporting countries, our offices are strategically located in key wool-producing and processing regions that play critical roles in the supply chain. Here’s how each contributes:
China
While not among the top exporters of merino wool itself, China remains the global leader in wool processing and textile manufacturing. Raw merino is frequently shipped here for scouring, carding, spinning, and knitting. Deepwear’s presence in China gives brands access to reliable partners across the production chain, from high-volume mills to boutique knitwear specialists.
Australia
Australia is the birthplace of fine merino. Though not leading in shipment count, it remains the largest producer of high-quality merino fleece, especially sought after by premium brands. Deepwear’s network here connects clients with ethical farms and certified wool brokers, ensuring traceability and sustainability from the source.
Turkey
Turkey combines wool importation with its strength in manufacturing. Its textile infrastructure is among the most advanced in the region, making it a valuable hub for nearshoring production into Europe. With Deepwear’s support, brands can develop high-quality wool garments with competitive timelines and costs.
Morocco
Though a smaller player in volume, Morocco offers craftsmanship-driven wool solutions. It is especially suited to artisan blends and handmade finishes, with growing interest from European buyers seeking regionally crafted goods. Our office bridges traditional know-how with contemporary design goals.
Not Just Wool — Deepwear’s Expertise Across Fibers and Seasons
Expanding cold-weather or transitional-season collections requires a thoughtful approach to fiber selection. While merino wool offers unmatched durability, breathability, and moisture management—perfect for activewear and base layers—luxury fibers like cashmere provide softness and lightness for premium pieces. Both fibers excel as natural insulators, but merino’s versatility makes it a reliable choice across many product categories. For brands seeking deeper insights into premium fibers and how to balance quality with cost, our blog on cashmere is a valuable resource.
Our services span the entire product development cycle, guided by local expertise from offices in key sourcing regions. From design consultation to sustainable material sourcing, supplier matching, sampling, and quality control, we provide hands-on support that ensures your collections meet both commercial and ethical standards.
By combining sustainability with strategic sourcing, we help brands build garments that are adaptable to changing climates and consumer expectations. Whether you’re developing base layers for active lifestyles or elegant outerwear, our expertise ensures your products are functional, responsible, and market-ready.
Discover how merino wool can transform your next collection and deliver real-world comfort and performance for your customers.
Send us a message today.