Comparing our types of wool

Discover which material suits you perfectly and why quality can be felt at every step.

13.01.2026

Not all wool is the same. Anyone who has ever paid close attention to it will quickly notice that every type of wool feels different, behaves differently – and makes a difference in everyday life. At GIESSWEIN, we have been relying on high-quality natural materials for generations, which perfectly combine comfort, function and sustainability.
In this article, we take you on a journey through the world of our wool types and show you which wool is ideal for what – so you can find exactly the right product for your lifestyle.

Two merino sheep with cream-coloured wool fleece stand on green pasture.


Merino wool – the all-rounder for everyday wear

Merino wool is a true wonder of nature – and one of GIESSWEIN's most popular raw materials. The exceptionally fine fibres come from Merino sheep and are significantly thinner than conventional virgin wool. The result? An incredibly soft feel, without any itchiness.

What makes Merino wool so special:

  • Regulates temperature – warm in winter, cool in summer
  • absorbs up to 33% of its own weight in moisture
  • is odourless and antibacterial
  • extremely breathable and elastic thanks to GIESSWEIN 3D knitting technology

Merino wool acts like natural air conditioning for your feet – perfect for long days, travelling or simply for maximum comfort in everyday life.


Virgin wool – robust, proven and versatile

Virgin wool is the classic among wool types. It comes from the first shearing of live sheep and is particularly impressive due to its resistance and durability. It is processed into high-quality fulled fabric – in a complex process involving knitting, fulling and mechanical finishing.

Typical properties of virgin wool:

  • Excellent thermal insulation
  • Hard-wearing and dimensionally stable
  • Naturally breathable
  • Ideal for street shoes, slippers and robust everyday companions

If you are looking for a product that will last for many years and keep you reliably warm, virgin wool is the right choice.


Cashmere & alpaca wool – luxury you can feel

Cashmere and alpaca wool stand for gentle elegance and maximum comfort. Both fibres are exceptionally fine, feather-light and surprisingly warm. No wonder they are considered true luxury materials.

Why we love cashmere and alpaca:

  • Extremely soft and skin-friendly – ideal for sensitive skin
  • Warm without being heavy
  • Breathable and temperature-regulating
  • Durable, elastic and dimensionally stable

Whether it's a hat or an accessory, cashmere and alpaca wool give you a feeling of cosiness – perfect for cold days and anyone who likes to be particularly comfortable.


Crossbred wool – the best of both worlds

Crossbred wool is produced by crossing different breeds of sheep, combining their specific advantages. It combines the softness of merino wool with the robustness of coarser new wool – a perfect balance of comfort and durability.

This is what makes crossbred wool so special:

  • pleasantly soft, yet sturdy
  • durable and retains its shape
  • flexible and versatile

Crossbred wool really comes into its own in our slippers: comfortable, cosy and made for everyday use.


Grey Giesswein Merino Wool Sneaker with white sole next to a wooden stick wrapped in natural-coloured sheep's wool on a fluffy white background.


Whether it's temperature-regulating merino wool, robust virgin wool, luxurious cashmere & alpaca or versatile crossbred wool – every type of wool has its own character. At GIESSWEIN, we select our materials with the utmost care so that you not only see the difference, but above all feel it.

Find the wool that suits your everyday life, your style, and your comfort requirements.

Because true quality begins with the materials – and ends with your sense of well-being.

Discover now: Our materials

Related articles:

Woman wearing a grey knitted hat in a snowy winter landscape

5 looks that keep your ears warm

Merino sheep with thick brown wool fleece stands at the front of a flock of sheep in the snow.

No to mulesing

Man in beige slippers sitting relaxed on a beige sofa

The 5 best slippers for winter

← Previous article / Next article →