Wool is self-cleaning and rarely needs to be washed—air the garment instead after wearing it. If necessary, wash it gently by hand or on a wool cycle with a mild wool detergent.

A thin layer closest to the body is usually sufficient—a T-shirt, thin sweater, or shirt in cotton or wool. Wool’s natural temperature-regulating properties mean you rarely need thick base layers, even when it’s cold outside.

A wool jacket is shorter and more casual, making it perfect as a comfortable layer for active days. A wool coat is longer and provides extra warmth and protection, making it a good choice for a more formal or winter-oriented option. Both share wool’s natural benefits—the choice mainly comes down to length and style.

Wool has a unique ability to retain warmth even in damp weather, unlike down, which loses much of its insulating ability when it gets wet. A wool jacket is also more breathable, making it comfortable to wear during activity without causing you to sweat as much. In really severe cold, wool works excellently as a functional mid-layer together with a lightweight outer jacket.