Woollen fabrics are warm to wear primarily due to the natural properties of wool fibres, specifically the presence of keratin and the way the fibres trap air.
Here are the key factors contributing to the warmth of woollen fabrics:
The Role of Keratin
Wool fibres contain a natural layer of keratin. Keratin is a protein found in all animal hair. This protein layer plays a crucial role in helping the animal, and subsequently the wearer of wool fabric, maintain body temperature.
- Natural Protein Layer: Wool has a natural layer of keratin, a protein all animal hair contains.
- Temperature Regulation: This keratin layer helps maintain body temperature.
Fibre Structure and Air Trapping
The physical structure of wool fibres is inherently insulating. The fibres are crimped and create a complex network when woven into fabric. This structure allows the fabric to trap significant amounts of air within the spaces between the fibres.
- Insulating Fibres: Wool hair fibres act as an insulator.
- Air Pockets: They trap air inside the cloth.
- Temperature Stabilisation: Trapping air helps stabilise your body temperature by creating a barrier against the cold external environment and preventing body heat from escaping rapidly.
In summary, the combination of the natural keratin layer and the unique structure of the fibres that allows for effective air trapping makes wool an excellent insulator, keeping the wearer warm.
