Fine, soft and naturally thermoregulating, merino wool adapts to temperature changes without adding bulk to the silhouette. Here is what sets this fibre apart, how to choose the right knit thickness and how to care for a merino sweater.
What is merino wool?
Merino wool comes from merino sheep, selected for the fineness of their fleece. Fibre diameter plays an essential role in how the wool feels against the skin: the finer it is, the more easily it bends and the less coarse it feels.
The extra-fine merino wool used by PELOT has a diameter of less than 18.5 microns. This fineness gives it a soft, supple feel, making it suitable for knitwear worn close to the body or layered over a shirt.
A fibre that adapts to temperature changes
The natural structure of the fibre traps air within the knit. This insulating layer helps retain warmth in cool weather without making the fabric feel heavy. Depending on the thickness selected, merino wool is therefore comfortable to wear both in mid-season and in winter.
The fibre can also absorb some water vapour before it turns into moisture on the surface of the garment. This ability helps maintain a more comfortable feel when activity levels or temperatures change.
2-ply or 3-ply knit: what is the difference?
The number of yarns knitted together affects the sweater’s density and warmth. A 2-ply merino knit is fine and lightweight: it is particularly suitable for mild temperatures, mid-season wear and layering.
A 3-ply knit is denser. It traps more air and provides greater warmth when temperatures fall. In both cases, the fineness of merino wool keeps the knit supple with a clean drape.
How should you care for a merino wool sweater?
It is important to follow the instructions on the garment’s care label. For PELOT sweaters, a wool cycle, suitable detergent and gentle spin help protect the fibre. Tumble drying should be avoided.
After washing, the sweater should be reshaped and then dried flat, away from direct heat. Between washes, simply airing it is often enough to refresh the knit. Finally, storing it folded prevents the garment’s weight from stretching the shoulders on a hanger.
Where are PELOT merino wool sweaters made?
PELOT sweaters are knitted in Vire Normandie, in the Calvados department (14500). The town is located in Normandy, in north-western France.
On a European scale, Vire is in Western Europe, in the north-western part of France. This two-part map makes it easy to locate the workshop within both France and Europe.
Merino wool at PELOT
PELOT knits extra-fine merino wool in its workshop in Vire, Normandy (14500). It is used for the Marceau, Alma, Nino and Romy sweaters, available with crew necks or V-necks. Whole-garment knitting creates each sweater in a single piece, without cutting separate panels.
The consistency of the knit, the fineness of the fibre and the choice between 2 or 3 plies make it possible to adapt the sweater to the season while retaining merino wool’s natural qualities. Details of the materials and process are provided on the PELOT French manufacturing page.
PELOT sweaters
Discover extra-fine merino wool
Explore PELOT merino wool sweaters knitted in our Normandy workshop.