Wool Isn’t What It Used to Be—And That’s a Good Thing

If you’ve ever thought wool was itchy, you’re not alone. For years, wool had a reputation for being rough and uncomfortable. I still have my old Woolrich unlined wool coat—the classic black and red buffalo check that never goes out of style. But as much as I love the look, I rarely wear it. The tiny barbs of fiber stick out like little needles, poking my skin. It did the job, but comfort? Not so much.

Fast forward to today, and the difference is startling. Wool has undergone a transformation thanks to thoughtful care and improved processing. Modern wool can be as smooth and soft as fine cotton—nothing like the itchy clothing of decades past or my iconic coat. If you haven’t tried high-quality, modern wool, you’re in for a surprise.

So, what’s changed? For starters, sheep are now raised with greater attention to fleece quality, resulting in softer, finer fibers. Proper shearing techniques and selective care ensure the wool maintains a smooth texture from the start. The finer the fibers, the softer the wool—and today’s wool is designed with comfort in mind.

Beyond that, processing techniques have advanced dramatically. Modern milling removes coarse fibers and smooths the surface, preventing the tiny scales on wool fibers from sticking out and causing irritation. Some wool, like Tartan Chickadee’s® silky wool tartan, undergoes special treatments to make it exceptionally smooth while retaining all the warmth and durability that makes wool so beloved.

The difference between my old Woolrich coat and a piece of freshly milled tartan cloth is night and day. One pokes and scratches, the other glides over the skin like a dream. If you’ve been avoiding wool because you remember it being itchy, it’s time to give it another try. You might just find that modern wool is your new favorite fabric.