What is Wool?
BAABUK is:
Wool is as special textile fiber that is produced mostly from sheep. In a broader sense of the term, it also includes cashmere (from goats), mohair (from goats), angora (from rabbits) and qiviut (from muskoxen).
What Makes Wool Special?
Wool is considered as one of the most unique and multipurpose fibers in the known world. Here are some of the characteristics that make it extra special:
It insulates. Wool does not trap heat; instead, it has the ability to keep your body at an even temperature. In simpler terms, it will keep you warm during cold weather and cool during warm weather. How magical is that?
It absorbs water. Now you may ask yourself: why wear something that will absorb water? Won’t that end up ruining a product? To elaborate on this further, wool’s ability to absorb (and release) water prevents moisture from being held at the skin. Simply put, you won’t get the cold feeling you get from wearing wet shoes made from synthetic material.
It is not clingy. Unlike other materials (think nylons, rayons and cottons), wool clothing does not cling to your skin. This is important because the extra space between your skin and the material allows for circulation of air, making the experience more comfortable and insulated.
It is crimped. At first glance, this may not be a very appealing property. But as far as functionality is concerned, the crimped material allows for wool to stretch and return to its natural length. This property makes it one of the most elastic materials there is. The result is a fiber that is both strong and durable.
It is fire resistant. In layman’s terms, it does not easily burn. It can even be used as an insulating material for homes. For that feature alone, wool should be your fabric of choice!
It is adaptable. You want your wool products in various colors? Done! Wool has a natural white raw color that allows it to take dye colors with ease.
It is hypoallergenic. You heard it right, this fiber is not only naturally mildew resistant but also has the ability to be safe even for people who have sensitive skin. Statistically, there are a few people who can have adverse reactions to wool, and it is mostly because of the products used to treat the wool (during manufacturing) and not the wool itself!
Why Wool Shooes and Slippers?
Because of its insulating capabilities, wool has been one of the most popular and readily available fabrics used by people for hundreds of years. For as long as mankind has been trying to keep itself from freezing or hit due to extreme temperatures, wool has been there to help provide comfort. As such, this fiber has proven itself a great material for shoes and slippers.