What is “wicking” and does Merino do it?
“Wicking” is a term used by manufacturers of synthetic clothes to persuade people that they’re as good as Merino. They’re not. Polypropylene is the most “hyped” product in the world. People actually believe that it “wicks” water away from the skin and keeps you dry. It doesn’t. It’s a petrochemical derivative developed to try and mimic the properties of Merino. In fact these synthetics have to be treated with hydrophilic/hydrophobic chemicals to boost their performance. Merino has tiny overlapping scales that encase the fibre. These are hydrophobic (water resistant), like tiles on a roof. The inside of the fibre however, is highly absorbent – hydrophilic, which means it can absorb and release moisture, 10x more in fact that synthetics. Each fibre can absorb up to one third of its own weight in moisture without feeling clammy or wet to the touch. Your Merino garment can then release this moisture into the atmosphere to keep you feeling warm and dry. More myths about “wicking”. • How can
