When it comes to luxury menswear, few fabrics epitomise sophistication and comfort quite like cashmere and merino wool. Both are revered for their exceptional quality, yet each boasts distinct characteristics. Our comprehensive range includes garments made from cashmere, and from merino wool, so no matter what your requirement we can provide what you’re looking for.
Origins and Fibre Quality
Cashmere:
Our cashmere, sourced from the soft undercoat of Hircus goats in Mongolia, is prized for its unparalleled fineness. With fibres measuring just 14-16 microns, cashmere delivers an extraordinary softness that feels indulgent to the touch. Its rarity is underscored by the fact that each goat produces a mere 150-200 grams of usable fibre annually, making cashmere one of the most coveted materials in luxury menswear.
Merino Wool:
Merino wool, harvested from the resilient Merino sheep of Australia and New Zealand, offers a similarly refined texture with fibres ranging between 18-24 microns. Renowned for its durability and versatility, merino wool strikes the perfect balance between performance and luxury, making it a staple for any gentleman’s wardrobe.
Softness and Comfort
Cashmere:
The hallmark of cashmere is its cloud-like softness. Lightweight and gentle against the skin, it’s an excellent choice for garments designed to envelop you in comfort. Ideal for sweaters, scarves, and other close-contact pieces, cashmere exudes a luxurious feel unmatched by other fibres.
Merino Wool:
While slightly less delicate than cashmere, merino wool offers an impressive level of comfort with added elasticity. Its natural stretch and resistance to pilling make it ideal for versatile wear, from casual layering to high-performance activewear.
Warmth and Insulation
Cashmere:
Cashmere excels in insulation, providing up to eight times the warmth of conventional wool. This superior heat retention, coupled with its lightweight properties, makes it a favourite for winter layering, as you won’t find the bulk associated with standard knitwear. We recommend our Rothesay cable crew sweater as an addition to your winter layers.
Merino Wool:
Merino wool stands out for its breathability and temperature-regulating qualities. It also wicks moisture away from the skin, ensuring you stay comfortable whether in cooler climates or during transitional weather. The Robert Old Merino 1/4 Zip is an excellent choice if you’re anticipating an active day at work where layering is essential, particularly if you are travelling for work or in and out of the office.
Durability and Care
Cashmere:
Luxurious yet delicate, cashmere demands careful handling. While Robert Old cashmere is of the highest quality, ensuring it retains a fine finish long into the lifetime of the garment, lower-cost cashmere has a tendency to pill and lose its shape over time. This necessitates gentle care, including hand washing in cold water. We have produced a guide that outlines the steps needed to keep your cashmere in top condition, which you can find here.
Merino Wool:
Merino wool is celebrated for its resilience and ease of care. Many merino garments are machine washable, retaining their shape and quality even after frequent use. This makes merino an excellent choice for those seeking durability without compromising on style.
Which Should You Choose?
Your choice between cashmere and merino wool ultimately hinges on your reason for purchase:
- Opt for Cashmere if: You desire unrivalled softness, lightweight warmth, and a sense of indulgence for special occasions.
- Opt for Merino Wool if: You need a robust, breathable, and versatile fabric that adapts effortlessly to both casual and active pursuits.
Both cashmere and merino wool embody the essence of luxury menswear, offering distinct benefits tailored to different preferences. Whether you’re drawn to the sumptuous feel of cashmere or the practicality of merino wool, investing in these premium fibres ensures elegance and comfort for years to come. Explore the Robert Old collection to find the perfect addition to your wardrobe, crafted with the modern gentleman in mind.
