Why wool keeps you warm even when wet

[Monkey@Arms]

Since the insulating properties of woolen wear are often discussed on this forum, I thought this explanation as to why, was of interest:

http://www.straightdope.com/columns/...m-when-its-wet

Best regards,

Jake

[Galician]

Wow! Who knew? thanks.

[Jordan]

that's really interesting I never knew that
Jordan

[Dr Mac]

Great link! Thanks for the info!

[KFCarter]

Although I'll continue to think of wool as "magic", it's nice to know there's science behind it!

[vmac3205]

Thanks Jake. That was great. In addition, on warm humid days, wool does the same thing, i.e. wicks away moisture, thereby cooling the skin. I once worked for a logging company and the owner (one of the smartest men I have ever known) wore a Pendleton long sleeve wool shirt 365 days a year. His claim was that he stayed as cool in his warm shirt as the rest of us did in a cotton T shirt. Whodda thunk?

[pauljsharp]

Very good explanation!

[ghostlight]

...and knowing is half the battle!

Thank you for the interesting information.

[Pleater]

I used to wear a natural white all wool jersey when sailing - and was usually warmer or cooler than the rest.

I burn very easily in the sun, and as the high factor sun screens were not around in those days I had to stay covered or blister and peel.

Over time the cream colour of the wool darkened to brown, as whenever the sun dried off moisture it also cooked the outside of the wool, but it also made it brittle and washing would lighten it a bit.

There is a trick to being most comfortable, in that the style of the garment needs to be loose enough to ride easily over the body, shaped so it doesn't drag during movemnt and not so oversize that it flaps and displaces the air inside.

Anne the Pleater :ootd:

[pdcorlis]

Here's a tip of the hat to natural fibers - they are amazing!