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Wool vs lambswool

Heiko

Familiar Face
Messages
95
Location
UK
Hi guys,

I was trying to figure out more about wool in outerwear, in particular wool vs lambswool.

I haven't been able to find much about lambswool but have the impression that it is not as durable as regular wool. Is this the case, anyone know more about lambswool?
 

Heiko

Familiar Face
Messages
95
Location
UK
Oh, I am asking about this because there is a handsome overcoat for sale but it is in lambswool. I am curious whether that is a good material choice.
 

rocketeer

Call Me a Cab
Messages
2,605
Location
England
Ok, here is my view.
Wool comes mainly from sheep, lambs are baby sheep. I can only think that Lambs wool is from baby sheep and has a softer texture as opposed to ordinary wool that comes from a mature animal.
J
 

RM Bantista

New in Town
Messages
30
Location
Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
Hi guys,

I was trying to figure out more about wool in outerwear, in particular wool vs lambswool.

I haven't been able to find much about lambswool but have the impression that it is not as durable as regular wool. Is this the case, anyone know more about lambswool?
Heiko,
A link that may be of some utility to you:
http://www.sierratradingpost.com/lp2/wool-guide/
The page has some information about the qualities of different wool.
As to the overcoat, who may say. Cashmere, camel, and other wool are all used to good effect in topcoats. Much depends on the purposes for which the item is to serve. There are many elements to consider in your decision that are not part of your question.
Regards, and good fortune to you.
rudy
 

Smithy

I'll Lock Up
Messages
5,139
Location
Norway
Lambswool is softer than the wool from a full grown sheep and is taken from the first shearing. It will not be as hardy as that from an adult sheep but as I said it is softer.

My family farm sheep back home in NZ so my opinion is based on personal observation.
 
Last edited:

Doctor Strange

I'll Lock Up
Messages
5,248
Location
Hudson Valley, NY
For what it's worth, since I've recently pulled them all out for the mega-cold weather, I've noticed that ALL three of my around five- to nine-year-old LL Bean lambswool sweaters have developed holes. This observation is versus several even older shetland and ragg wool - and lots of cotton - sweaters, none of which have developed any holes. Lambswool is very soft and comfortable, but it's just not hard-wearing. (Kind of similar to lambskin leather vs. cowhide, horsehide, or goatskin. Hmmm...)
 

Heiko

Familiar Face
Messages
95
Location
UK
Thank you Smithy and Doctor Strange, just what I was wondering about.

You guys are great.
 

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