Aussies come up with yet another way of mixing wool and polyester

They didn't use to call them cycling jerseys for nothing and, until the advent of Lycra and other synthetic materials, wool was what every stylish rider always wore, it's been on the way back for last few years particularly with the advent of such things as Sportwool that mix wool and polyester.

The lastest such wool mix is the result of cooperation between Australian Wool Innovation, and the Japanese cycle clothing company Pearl Izumi.

Their new range includes MerinoPerform Advantage technology, which Pearl Izumi has used to create high performance garments that enable athletes to perform at their best in hot and cold conditions.

Developed using up to 19.5 micron Merino wool with a “99% comfort factor”, the MerinoPerform technology has unique natural temperature regulation and vapour management properties that keep athletes cooler, drier and more comfortable when exercising, AWI says.

“The modern and lightweight fabric has a bi-component fabric structure. Fine Merino wool next to the skin has natural breathability and wicks away moisture during exercise, while providing the rider with wind and UPF 50+ sun protection”, they say.

“The partnership between AWI and Pearl Izumi is an important milestone for Merino in sportswear. Given Merino’s high performance advantages, it aligns well with the meticulously high standards for which Pearl Izumi is famous.”

AWI’s global manager sports/outdoor Lars Ulvesund said the expanding sports and activewear market is an area of market growth for Australian Merino wool.

“AWI is working with many of the leading global sports brands such as Pearl Izumi. Marketing, networks, education and of course product development are all areas where we can add value and make a difference,” he said.