>>2289834Because it's
-fireproof
-doesn't immediately dry (and flash-chill you) when damp
- blocks wind (tweed, Loden, felted wool)
- durable af, handles thorns and briar like a champ, lighter synthetics would be rags
- exothermic - actually heats up as it moistens
- no smell (even damp wool smell can be treated by washing and re-lanolising)
- no sound
- breathes when working, insulates and blocks wind when still
- comfortable over wider temp range
- will never compress and lose loft
- doesn't get wrecked by your body's natural oils
- bonus: aesthetic and feels nice
The downside is drying time when soaked, but unlike a fleece, you can hang a wool garment by a fire. Proper water management ie ponchos, impermeable shells etc will stop the wool from soaking, and mist and sweat is handled very well by the hollow hydrophilic fibres which will then dry from your body heat.
>scratchyWear a merino base layer, sew in softer fabric at skin contact points (neck, sleeves etc) lanolise the wool or desensitise your skin by repeat wear. The itchiness is also a benefit - lanolin is good for your skin, fibres clean your skin, and the stimulation of the fine hairs enhance blood flow far more than slippery smooth synthetics, keeping you warmer
