Is merino wool worth the price for kids?

Merino wool is often more expensive than cotton and fleece, so the question is fair: is it really worth it? The answer is: sometimes — but not for everything.

Merino wool works best when the garment will sit close to the skin and help the child keep an even body temperature. That could be a body, base layer, socks, pyjamas or a thin layer under the snowsuit. The big advantage is that wool handles moisture in a smart way. When the child gets warm, wool can absorb moisture vapour, and when it gets cooler, the garment still feels less cold than a wet cotton one.

Another practical upside is that wool often doesn't need to be washed as often as many other materials. Sometimes airing the garment between uses is enough, which is welcome for tired toddler parents — and can make the garment last longer if cared for properly.

But merino isn't always the best buy. Thin wool can wear out faster at knees, elbows and under snowsuits where there's a lot of friction. For very active kids a wool blend with some synthetic can be more durable than 100% wool. Check the care instructions too: some wool garments need a wool cycle, wool detergent and careful drying.