Strong Wool vs Synthetics: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Mar 19

Should you choose strong wool or synthetic fibres? This easy-to-read guide breaks down the key differences in durability, breathability, sustainability, and comfort.

“Synthetics place is in cheap, budget uses. Strong wool’s place is in high end and premium applications where value is more than just low costs”
- Angus Hansen

Key Takeaways:

Sustainability: Wool is 100% biodegradable, while synthetics contribute to off-gassing and plastic pollution, including microplastics.
Breathability: Wool naturally regulates temperature and moisture, while synthetics trap heat
Durability: Wool is elastic and long-lasting, and synthetics resist moisture and heavy wear.
Odour Resistance: Wool naturally neutralises odours, while synthetics tend to retain smells.
Best Uses: Wool is ideal for bedding and clothing, while synthetics excel in outdoor activewear.

Strong Wool vs Synthetic Fibres: An Easy Comparison

Choosing between strong wool and synthetics depends on factors like sustainability, durability, and comfort. Below is a checklist-style comparison for quick reference.

 
    
        Feature
        Strong Wool
        Synthetic Fibres
    

         100% Biodegradable 
         ✅ Yes 
        ❌ No 
    

         Made from Natural Materials 
        ✅ Yes 
        ❌ No (Petroleum-based)
    

        Breathable & Temperature Regulating 
        ✅ Yes 
        ❌ No (Traps Heat)
    

        Moisture Wicking 
        ✅ Excellent 
        ❌ Can Trap Sweat 
    

        Odour Resistance 
        ✅ Natural
        ❌ Retains Smell 
    

        Durability
        ✅ Strong & Elastic 
         ✅ Long Lasting but Prone to Pulling (
    

        Free of Microplastics
        ✅ Yes
        ❌ No (Sheds Mircoplastics)
    

        Soft & Comfortable
        ✅ Yes, Especially over Time
        ❌ Can Feel Synthetic & Stiff
    

        Hypoallergenic
        ✅ Yes (low Irritants)
        ❌ Some May Cause Irritation
    

        Fire Resistant
        ✅ Naturall Fire-Retardant
        ❌ Can Melt and Release Toxins
    

        Free of Microplastics
        ✅ Yes
        ❌ No
    

        Machine Washable
        ❌ Needs Gentle Care
         ✅  Easy-Care, Machine Waashable 
    

        Best Use Cases
         Bedding, Apparel, Upholstery
         Activewear, Outdoor Gear
    

Why is Strong Wool More Sustainable Than Synthetics?

Strong wool is a renewable, biodegradable material that decomposes naturally without harming the planet. Synthetic fibres, on the other hand, are petroleum-based and contribute to plastic pollution.

Additionally, when washed, synthetic fabrics shed microplastics into waterways, affecting marine ecosystems and recent studies have found an alarming increase of microplastics found in humans. Wool, however, breaks down naturally into organic matter.

If sustainability is your priority, wool is the clear winner.

Which Material Offers Better Comfort: Wool or Synthetics?

For comfort and breathability, strong wool outperforms synthetic fibres. Wool naturally wicks moisture away from the skin, helping regulate body temperature in both warm and cool conditions.

Synthetics, however, can trap heat and moisture, leading to discomfort, especially in warm weather. This is why wool is often the preferred choice for bedding, upholstery, and natural clothing.

Which is most impacted by static charge and why it matters?

Synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic are highly prone to static electricity buildup due to their low moisture absorption.

Static charge occurs when friction causes electrons to accumulate on the fabric's surface. Since synthetics are hydrophobic (repelling moisture), they lack the ability to dissipate this static charge effectively.

This static buildup acts like a magnet for dust, lint, and small particles, causing synthetic furnishings, carpets, toys and apparel to attract airborne debris more readily than natural fibers like wool. Studies have shown that synthetic fibers can generate up to 10 times more static electricity than natural fibers in dry environments.

In contrast, wool’s natural ability to absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling damp significantly reduces static buildup, making it far less prone to attracting dust.

Which is better for allergy sufferers?

Wool is naturally resistant to bacteria, mold, and mildew due to its unique fiber structure and lanolin content.

Wool fibers have a irregular outer layer that creates a dry, inhospitable environment for dust mites and other allergens. This property makes wool an excellent choice for bedding, carpets, and furnishings in homes where allergy control is a priority.

Research published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology highlights wool’s effectiveness in resisting bacterial growth compared to synthetic materials. Additionally, wool’s ability to regulate moisture levels further deters microbial growth, creating a cleaner indoor environment with fewer allergens.

By choosing wool over synthetics, you reduce both dust buildup and allergen exposure, improving air quality in your home.

Is Strong Wool Worth the Investment?

While wool is more expensive than synthetic alternatives, it provides superior comfort, breathability, and sustainability. Synthetics may cost less initially, but they often need replacing sooner, increasing their long-term environmental and financial cost.

If you’re looking for a natural, long-lasting, and breathable material, strong wool is a smart investment.