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Science Confirms: Merino Wool Is Best for Athletes

An ancestral material turned into a sporting innovation

Merino wool has been a part of our lives for centuries. Originally, it was mainly used to keep warm in cold climates, but modern science has shown that this natural fibre goes far beyond simple protection against the cold.

Today, in the 21st century, we are discussing a material capable of competing with the most advanced synthetic fibres, offering unique properties of thermal regulation, comfort, and sustainability.

At Hilaturas Jesús Rubio, we believe that merino wool symbolises what we value most: spinning tradition, scientific research and innovation at the service of industries, designers and brands seeking a technical, versatile and environmentally friendly textile.

What science says…

Evidence on merino wool

Over the last two decades, multiple studies have confirmed what many athletes already suspected: merino wool improves sporting performance.

A study by North Carolina State University showed that runners wearing merino wool maintained a more stable body temperature during mountain races than those wearing polyester shirts.

Another report, published in the Textile Research Journal, compared moisture accumulation in cotton, polyester and merino garments, concluding that the latter offered more efficient evaporation and less moisture sensation after intense workouts.

Science also supports wool’s natural ability to resist odours. Its molecular structure creates an environment unfavourable for the development of bacteria responsible for bad smells.

This means that a merino wool shirt can be worn for several sessions before needing a wash, something especially useful on expeditions, long competitions or daily training.

But the most interesting aspect is the combination of these properties in a single garment: elasticity, thermal regulation, moisture management, bacterial resistance and natural UV protection. Few fibres achieve such a complete balance.

How it translates into an athlete’s daily life

The scientific benefits do not remain theoretical; they are directly reflected in athletes’ experience.

An ultra-distance runner training in extreme climates may go from the cold of dawn to the midday heat within hours. With merino wool garments, the body maintains a stable temperature without the need to wear several heavy layers.

In cycling, moisture management makes the difference: a merino jersey absorbs sweat and evaporates it, preventing the wet-skin sensation that limits performance.

Even in yoga or fitness, where direct contact with the floor and skin is constant, merino’s softness provides comfort and prevents chafing.

It is no coincidence that international brands such as Icebreaker, Smartwool or Adidas Terrex already include it in their collections. Nor is it a coincidence that more and more amateur athletes choose it for training or competition. Merino wool offers a competitive advantage that can be felt from the very first use.

Comparison with synthetic fibres and technical cotton

To better understand the uniqueness of merino wool, it is worth comparing it with other commonly used materials in sportswear:

Material	Advantages	Disadvantages
Merino wool	Regulates temperature (cold and heat). Absorbs and evaporates moisture. Prevents bad odours thanks to its antibacterial properties. Soft and lightweight.	Higher price than synthetic fibres. Requires specific washing care.
Technical cotton	Soft, natural, breathable.	Retains moisture, dries slowly, risk of cooling after exercise.
Polyester	Very lightweight. Dries quickly. Affordable.	Tends to generate bad odours, becomes static easily, does not regulate temperature.
Polyamide	High mechanical strength. Provides elasticity.	Builds up heat. Also generates bad odours.
Bamboo / artificial plant fibres	Good moisture absorption. Soft and fresh feel.	Less thermal regulation than merino wool. Limited durability.

Merino combines the best of all these materials: it absorbs moisture like cotton, dries as quickly as a synthetic, regulates temperature like no other fibre, and is biodegradable and renewable. A unique balance that explains its growing popularity in sport.

Sustainability: performance with responsibility

The sports sector is transforming sustainability, and consumers are demanding it more and more. Merino wool is 100% natural, renewable and biodegradable.

A merino sheep produces wool every year, ensuring a continuous supply without depleting resources. At the end of its useful life, a merino garment biodegrades in the soil within months, returning nutrients to the ecosystem.

In contrast, petroleum-derived synthetics take decades to break down and generate microplastics that pollute oceans and soils. That is why choosing merino wool is not only a technical decision but also an ethical one.

At Hilaturas Jesús Rubio, we promote this approach because we believe the future of textiles must be circular, conscious and responsible. We are committed to natural fibres such as merino and to certified recycled yarns, helping brands and manufacturers reduce their environmental footprint without sacrificing innovation.

The fibre of the future was already here

Science has spoken and sporting practice supports it: merino wool is the best option for athletes seeking performance, comfort and sustainability. It is not a new material, but thanks to innovation and research, it has regained a central place in technical textiles.

At Hilaturas Jesús Rubio, we believe that the future of sport depends on fibres such as merino: natural, versatile and responsible.

Our mission is clear: to offer tailor-made yarns, with specialised advice, traceability and certifications that make every project an example of conscious innovation.

If you are thinking of launching a sports line, creating technical uniforms or experimenting with new merino wool applications, we invite you to contact us. Asking today can make the difference in the success of your next project.

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