A Guide to Knitwear

Wool: For Winter Layering

Wool is the most traditional knitwear fabric, known for creating jumpers with warmth and durability. This natural fibre is breathable, helping to regulate your body temperature and is a go-to material for winter jumpers, including cable knit jumpers, V-neck jumpers and half zip jumpers, along with winter accessories such as scarves and hats. Wool fibres trap heat, making it ideal for colder climates and there are various types of wool, each with its own unique properties:

Lambswool: Breathable and warm, lambswool is finer than traditional wool and retains its shape well. It generally comes from the first shearing of lambs and is sought after for its softer feel. Our top lambswool jumper picks include the mens Schoffel Lewis Lambswool Quarter Zip Jumper and the Albert and Maurice Eastnor V Neck Jumper

Merino Wool: Merino wool offers high levels of breathability, warmth and comfort against the skin, and is less itchy than traditional wool making it perfect for base layers. Merino wool is lightweight and easy to wear and has an excellent warmth to weight ratio. The Barbour Grangetown Merino Crew Neck Sweater is a great example of a supersoft crew neck jumper made from extra fine merino wool.

Cashmere: Luxuriously soft and lightweight, cashmere is a finer type of wool that offers warmth without the bulk. Cashmere is often blended with other fibres for additional durability and practicality. The Schoffel Calton Cotton Cashmere Quarter Zip Jumper is a popular example of a cashmere blend quarter zip jumper with timeless cable knit design

Care Tips: Wool garments require gentle care. To maintain the shape and softness of a wool jumper, hand wash or use a gentle machine cycle with cold water, and lay flat to dry to prevent stretching.

Cotton: A Year-Round Essential

Cotton jumpers are versatile and comfortable, making it suitable for wear in any season. Cotton is breathable and soft, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin or allergies and it’s perfect for layering in the cooler months or wearing on its own in the summer.

Pima Cotton: Known for its long fibres, Pima cotton is softer and more durable than regular cotton. The men’s Barbour Pima Cotton Crew Neck Jumper is a classic wardrobe staple, perfect for year round wear.

Organic Cotton: Grown without synthetic chemicals, organic cotton is an eco-friendly choice that’s gentle on the skin.

Care Tips: Cotton is generally machine-washable, but it's best to use cold water to prevent shrinkage. Air drying helps maintain the shape and size of the garment.

Synthetic Blends: The Performance Option

Synthetic fibres offer an alternative to wool, especially for those with allergies or sensitivities. These fabrics are often easier to care for and are less prone to shrinking and wrinkling, making them ideal for everyday wear.

Seawool: An innovative eco-friendly fibre made from post-consumer waste, including oyster shells and recycled plastic bottles. Find out more about Seawool with the blog, Introducing Seawool: A New Sustainable Fibre. The Albert & Maurice Bosbury Crew Neck Jumper is a premium jumper made from a Seawool blend, creating a super soft and easy to wear jumper with a smart finish.

Acrylic: Often used as a wool substitute, acrylic is lightweight, warm, and easy to care for. It is often blended with other fibres to increase the durability of a garment. The Seeland Woodcock V Neck Jumper is an acrylic and wool blend jumper that is ideal for layering over a check shirt and can withstand the rigours of countryside life.

Polyester: Durable, wrinkle-resistant, and quick-drying, polyester blends are popular for everyday wear. Polyester is often used to create soft and durable fleece jumpers that add cosy warmth in the colder months. The Hoggs Of Fife Mens Islander Quarter Zip Micro Fleece Jumper is ideal for comfortable and easy to wear warmth.

Care Tips: Synthetic blends are typically machine-washable and can be tumble-dried on low heat. Avoid high temperatures, as they can cause damage to the fabric.

Choosing the Right Knitwear for Your Needs

When selecting knitwear, consider the climate, the occasion, and your personal preferences. For winter warmth, opt for wool, lambswool or cashmere. If you need a lightweight, breathable jumper, cotton or fine merino wool is ideal. Jumpers made from synthetic blends provide durability and ease of care, making them perfect for casual, everyday wear.

Caring for Your Knitwear

Proper care is essential for extending the life of your jumpers and cardigans. Always check the care label of your jumper before washing, and follow the recommended instructions to avoid damaging the fabric. Hand washing or using a gentle machine cycle with cold water is often the safest method. Avoid high heat when drying, and store your jumper folded to prevent stretching and misshaping.

Conclusion

Knitwear is a versatile and essential cornerstone of any wardrobe, offering a diverse range of styles and fabrics to complement every occasion. From timeless cable knit jumpers and V-neck jumpers to contemporary quarter zip jumpers and half zip jumpers, the choices are vast. By understanding the various types of knitwear and following proper care techniques for your jumpers, you can select the perfect piece to meet your needs. Whether you're layering up for winter warmth or opting for a light, breezy knit in summer, there's an ideal jumper for every season and setting.