Merino vs cashmere – which should I choose?
The merino vs cashmere debate is one that comes up time and again among those who appreciate quality knitwear, and for good reason. Both fibres are a great choice, they’re both natural fibres and exceptionally soft, but they’re not the same and choosing between them isn’t always straightforward.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know, from what merino wool actually is, to the key differences between cashmere vs merino, and which one might be the right choice for you.
What is merino wool?
Merino wool comes from the Merino sheep, a breed originally from Spain that is now most commonly farmed in Australia and New Zealand. These sheep have been bred to produce a really fine wool, much finer than standard wool, making it far softer and more comfortable to wear next to the skin.
What makes merino wool so popular is its combination of properties – it’s breathable, temperature-regulating, and naturally odour-resistant, making it very similar in nature to cashmere wool.
A premium merino wool has a low micron count, typically between 15 and 24 microns, meaning a softer fibre that won’t cause your skin to itch.
Merino is widely used across a range of garments, from base layers and socks to jumpers, scarves, and coats. It's durable, widely available, and sits at a more accessible price point than many luxury fibres, which is a big part of its appeal.
What are the downsides of merino wool?
Whilst it has many strengths, merino wool isn’t without its drawbacks. One of the most common complaints is that it can be prone to pilling, which is particularly noticeable on areas like underarms or where a bag strap rubs against the fabric.
Pilling doesn’t necessarily mean a garment is poor quality, but it does affect the appearance of a piece over time, which can eventually result in the garment not being worn any longer, meaning it may not be the most sustainable choice.
Merino can also be very delicate, meaning it requires careful handling, especially when it comes to washing. Garments can lose their shape if they’re not washed correctly, which leads us nicely onto our next question…
Why can’t you wash merino wool?
Strictly speaking, you can wash merino wool, but it has to be done carefully. The wool fibres are covered in tiny scales which, when exposed to heat, agitation or harsh detergents, interlock and shrink. This results in a garment becoming noticeably smaller and stiffer and is irreversible.
To wash merino wool safely, always use cold water, a gentle wool-specific detergent and either hand wash or choose a delicate cycle on your machine. Instead of wringing or tumble drying, press out excess water and lay the garment flat to dry.
Many merino pieces are labelled as machine washable, but it's always worth checking the care label first. The good news is that because merino is naturally odour-resistant, you won't need to wash it as frequently as other fabrics.
Merino vs cashmere – what are the differences?
Now that we understand merino wool, let's look at how it stacks up against cashmere. The cashmere vs merino comparison is one that reveals two quite different fibres, each with their own distinct strengths.
Cashmere comes from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats, primarily farmed in regions such as Mongolia, China, and parts of the Middle East. It's one of the rarest and most luxurious natural fibres in the world, and it's prized above all for its extraordinary softness and insulating warmth. Good quality cashmere fibres are incredibly fine, typically between 14 and 19 microns, and the hair is combed (not sheared) by hand, meaning it will never feel itchy on your skin.
In terms of warmth, cashmere wins. Despite being lightweight, it provides exceptional insulation, trapping warmth without bulk. Merino is also warm, but it doesn't quite match the cocoon-like warmth of a quality cashmere piece.
When it comes to durability, merino has a slight edge. Its fibres are naturally more resilient and better able to withstand repeated wear and washing. Cashmere, while undeniably luxurious, is more delicate and requires careful handling to maintain its softness and shape over time. Having said this, certain high-quality cashmeres will be able to withstand the same amount of wear and washing as merino wool.
At Brodie, all our pieces are made from 100% Grade-A Mongolian cashmere. This means the cashmere fibres are 20% longer than that found in other regions, meaning we’re able to twist the yarn, enhancing its strength and durability. Our cashmere is machine washable and is made to last for decades, not just a few wears.
Is cashmere more expensive than merino?
Yes, typically cashmere is more expensive than merino wool, and for good reason. The yield of usable cashmere from a single goat is very small, usually around 150 to 200 grams per year, which makes the raw material inherently scarce. When you factor in the hand-combing process, the sorting of fibres by fineness, and the skilled craftsmanship involved in turning that fleece into a finished garment, the cost quickly mounts.
Merino, by contrast, is more abundantly produced. Merino sheep are shorn annually, and a single sheep can yield several kilograms of fleece. This makes the raw material more readily available, and the resulting garments more accessible in price. That said, there's still a wide spectrum of quality within both fibres, both budget merino and budget cashmere can disappoint, while premium versions can be exceptional.
Something we’re excited to be working on at Brodie Cashmere for our Autumn Winter 26 collection is a cashmere and merino blend. Keep your eyes peeled on our website, socials and sign up to our newsletter to be the first to shop this collection when it launches.
Which is itchier, merino or cashmere?
This is a question many people have, particularly those who've had bad experiences with scratchy standard wool. The good news is that both merino and cashmere sit at the softer end of the natural fibre spectrum.
Cashmere is generally considered the softer of the two. Its ultra-fine fibres lie close to the skin without causing irritation, making it a popular choice for those who find even fine wool uncomfortable. A high-quality cashmere piece worn directly against the skin will feel genuinely smooth and luxurious.
Merino is also far softer than conventional wool, and fine merino (under 18 microns) is generally considered non-itchy for most people. However, sensitivity varies and those with particularly reactive skin may still find that merino causes mild irritation, while cashmere rarely does. If softness is your primary concern, cashmere is the safer bet.
Merino vs cashmere – which should I choose?
So, when it comes to the merino vs cashmere question, which fibre should you choose? The honest answer is it depends on what you're looking for. Merino wool is an excellent choice for its versatility and durability and delivers impressive comfort for its price.
But if you're looking for something truly special, a piece that you'll reach for everyday and when you want to feel more luxurious, cashmere is hard to beat. There's a reason it has been treasured for centuries. For those who are ready to invest in cashmere, quality matters enormously. Cheap cashmere, often from lower-grade fleece, can pill quickly and lose its softness after just a few wears. That's why it pays to choose a maker who takes the craft seriously.
At Brodie, cashmere isn't just a product, it's our passion. With decades of expertise and a deep commitment to sourcing the finest fibres, our knitwear is built to last and designed to be cherished. From classic jumpers to elegant wraps, every piece reflects the care and craftsmanship that goes into working with this extraordinary material.
If you're ready to add a truly special piece to your collection, we may be biased but we think Brodie is the place to start – check out our products for yourself! And don’t forget, as we mentioned earlier, we’re so excited to be creating knitwear that’s a beautiful cashmere and merino wool blend for the Autumn Winter season, so there’s no need to decide merino vs cashmere, you can have both!
