Merino wool vs cashmere
Merino is tougher, regulates temperature and suits sport; cashmere is softer and warmer but pills faster.
Choose merino wool
Everyday knits, base layers
Choose cashmere
Luxury knitwear
Merino wool
- Regulates temperature – warm without overheating
- Stays fresh for days
- Pricier
- Shrinks and felts like any wool
Cashmere
- Warmest for its weight
- Exceptionally soft
- Expensive
- Prone to pilling
- Needs gentle care
| Merino wool | Cashmere | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Natural animal fibre | Natural animal fibre |
| Made from | The very fine wool of merino sheep (about 15–24 microns). | The soft undercoat of cashmere goats. |
| Feel | Soft, light, no itch. | Very soft, light and warm. |
| Shrinks? | Yes – merino wool shrinks in hot water and the dryer, especially as a knit. Wash at 30 °C and dry without heat. | Yes – cashmere shrinks in hot water and the dryer, especially as a knit. Wash at 30 °C and dry without heat. |
| Used for | Sweaters, base layers, socks, sportswear. | Sweaters, scarves, coats. |
More comparisons
Questions and answers
Frequently asked
01Which is better, merino wool or cashmere?
Merino is tougher, regulates temperature and suits sport; cashmere is softer and warmer but pills faster.
02Which is more breathable?
Merino wool breathes better.
03Which creases less?
Merino wool creases less.