The Characteristics of the Icelandic wool
As
a breed, the Iceland Sheep is unique -the purity of the strain has been
protected by centuries of isolation and a total absence of contact with
others. By the same token, the wool it produces has no counterpart
anywhere.
Evolving over 1,100 years of exposure to the sub-Arctic
climate, Icelandic wool has a distinctive combination of inner and outer
fibers. The outer fibers are long, glossy, tough and water-resistant,
while the inner ones are fine, soft and insulating, providing a high
resistance to cold. A further striking characteristic of the Iceland
Sheep is its natural colors, black, grey and brown as well as the usual
white. Together, these create the distinctive look of Icelandic
knitwear, one of the best-known examples of which is the Lopi.
The Icelandic wool is Unique in its composition as it consists of two types of fibers:
INNER FIBRES - INSULATING: Fine, soft, highly insulating.
OUTER FIBRES - WATER-REPELLENT: Long, glossy, water-repellent.
Together, these two distinctive fibres create a unique characteristic of the Icelandic wool:
Lightweight - lighter than most other wools, keeps you warm and comfortable.
Water-repellent - repels rain and stays feeling dry.
Breathable - moisture passes through the fibers away from the skin, keeping you dry and comfortable.