Although it features in the majority of men’s wardrobes, many have no real idea about the different types and styles of men’s knitwear available. In fact, the choice of material and the way it is worn can say a lot about the wearer’s personality. The functionality and care of men’s knitwear will also vary depending upon the material used.

When considering men’s knitwear, wool is usually the first material that springs to mind. Wool is very durable but requires some care to ensure it remains in good condition. Wool should be hand-washed and rack-dried, or dry-cleaned. Wool garments should be folded rather than hung. Depending upon the animal that it is from, wool offers varying levels of quality and feel:

Lambswool – Perhaps the most popular choice of wool for men’s knitwear, lambswool comes from the first shearing of a sheep, at about seven months old. The fibre is shorter than the wool from an adult sheep and is renowned for its incredible softness.  Lambswool also has excellent insulating properties; it is breathable and regulates heat, to provide exceptional warmth in the winter while remaining cool in the summer.

Merino Wool – Merino wool is one of the softest types of wool available, due to the finer fibres.  As a result Merino wool has an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio compared to other wools, which makes it an excellent yarn for smarter, lighter knitwear. It provides some warmth, without overheating the wearer and without creating unnecessary bulk.

Shetland Wool –Shetlands are celebrated for the range of beautiful natural shades of wool they produce.  It is this characteristic that gives Shetland knitwear its unique almost flecked appearance, even when dyed.  Shetland wool is soft, strong and very warm, making it an ideal choice of men’s knitwear for the colder months.

Cashmere

The ultimate in luxury, cashmere is beautifully light, soft and warm. Purchasing cashmere should be considered a long-term investment, and as such it is important to choose carefully. Make sure the colour is timeless and that the garment fits perfectly. In terms of care, cashmere is very similar to wool. It should be dry-cleaned or hand-washed in warm water only.

Cotton – Cotton is a very versatile fabric for men’s knitwear. It can be worn directly against the skin and is much cooler and more breathable than both cashmere and wool. Cotton knitwear can also be machine-washed quite safely. In terms of cost, cotton is generally cheaper than alternative fabrics such as wool and cashmere but is unlikely to last quite as long.

Take a look at the extensive choice of natural materials available in our knitwear range. Please feel free to contact the team if you have any queries.

The post A Guide to Men’s Knitwear – The Choice of Natural Materials appeared first on Joseph Turner News.