Wool vs. Polyester

The classic natural fiber Wool and the modern synthetic hero Polyester. Both are present in the world of fashion and technical apparel, but what they bring to the table in terms of performance is very different. We see great variation between the two in terms of warmth, water resistance, breathability, and durability.

Understanding the basic which natural and synthetic fabrics have to offer is key to a smart purchase. Does the price difference of a wool essentials coat really add up to that much better comfort? Also is it true that man made fibers like polyester are in fact a better, more practical choice today?

Round 1: Warmth and Insulation (Does Polyester Outperform Wool)?

When it gets cold out the focus is on insulation. What each fabric does to keep you warm varies greatly:.

• Wool’s Warmth Mechanism: Wool is a great insulator because of the natural crimp and structure of the fiber. It has millions of little air pockets which in turn trap body heat next to the skin and also slow down the heat transfer.
• The Key Advantage: Wool is known for its quality of keeping in heat which it does even when wet. What we have is internal hydrophilic (water loving) structure of the fibers but a hydrophobic (water hating) exterior which puts off water intake thus at the same time producing heat via a process called “heat of sorption.
• Polyester’s Warmth Mechanism: Polyester as a synthetic plastic fiber does not have the same complex structure as wool. In terms of warmth it depends on the fabric weave, thickness, and also what is put inside it like fleece or synthetic fill.
• The Key Disadvantage: Polyester which is light in weight to wear does the same thing upon coming into contact with water loses most of its insulating value.
• Verdict on Warmth: Wool is the choice for natural and dependable warmth which also does well in wet weather. In polyester you do get out very warm (as in puffer jackets) but it is through the design and extra fill that this is achieved.

Round 2: Water Repellent and Moisture Wicking

How fabrics perform in rain, snow, and sweat is key to comfort and keeping dry.
Also it does a good job of repelling a light mist or rain but is not so good when it comes to heavy rain which in the long run will over time make the coat very heavy.

• Polyester: Polyester has a hydrophobic quality which means it repels water upon contact. This is which is very useful for rain gear when used in association with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finishes. But once that which is moisture or sweat gets through the fabric, polyester does a poor job of wicking it out thus you get that wet feel inside the jacket.
• Verdict on Water Resistance: Polyester does better in the rain and for quick drying, also when treated. Wool does better at managing sweat and keeping you warm in wet internal conditions.

Round 3: Airiness and Ease

A breathable coat which will not cause you to overheat and which also in the case of sweat not evaporating out leaves you dry.

• Wool: Wool has a natural open structure which allows air and water vapor (sweat) to pass right through it thus it does a great job of调节 body temperature in a wide range of conditions. That is the reason you will find a wool coat to be comfortable whether you are inside or out.
• Polyester: In general not as breathable as wool. Out of which polyester fabrics that don’t have special weaves or vents will trap heat and moisture against the skin which in turn causes quick over heating during physical activity. But fleece and mesh polyester are exceptions.
• Verdict on Breathability: Wool does it. It’s natural fiber structure which in turn provides better, great temperature regulation.

Round 4: Durance, Care, and Longevity

The investment for a jacket includes its care and wear which out.

Polyester:

• Durability: Very durable and resists to wear, tear and stretch. It maintains its shape well and is also natural at fighting wrinkles.
• Care: Very low maintenance. It goes in the wash and dry cycle and dries fast. Also it is moth proof.
• Longevity: Can go for many years, but at the same time excessive pilling (formation of small fabric balls) may happen which in turn may cause your garment to wear out looking.
• Durability: Superb elasticity which in turn gives great durability. It resists creasing and springs back into place. High quality wool which can last for decades.

Wool:

• Care: Requires attention in care. Most wool coats should be dry cleaned or hand washed gently and they are at risk of moth damage and shrinkage which is brought on by high heat and agitation.
• Longevity: With proper maintenance a high quality wool coat will out do any piece of polyester in terms of life span and age which see to improve giving you a classic piece that you treasure.
• Verdict on Durability & Care: Polyester takes the lead in terms of ease of care and durability. Wool does in terms of that classic look which improves with age and also as a piece which is an investment over time (if cared for properly).

Round 5: Sustainable and Environmental Issues

The issue of what is the source and fate of this fabric is of great import to buyers.

• Wool (Natural): Wool is a natural and renewable resource which is sheared from sheep each year. It breaks down over time and returns nutrients to the soil at the end of its use. But also it has environmental issues related to methane production from the livestock and land use.
• Polyester (Synthetic): Polyester is out of petroleum based plastic (Polyethylene Terephthalate, or PET). What we have is a material which is not biodegradable which in turn causes it to stay in landfills for hundreds of years. Also the production process is intensive in terms of energy and resources. While we have recycle polyester we still see the base issue of biodegradability and microplastic emission.

Verdict on Sustainability: Wool is it out. A natural, renewable, and biodegradable option.

Conclusion: Selecting the Perfect Coat for You

When it comes to choosing the best material for a coat, that which you select should reflect your climate and lifestyle:.

• Choose Wool if: You have a dynamic climate (as in the UK), you go for natural fabrics, you want the best in terms of breathability, also see your coat as a piece that will stand the test of time. We recommend dry cleaning.
• Choose Polyester if: For heavy rain or high activity sports you will want a jacket which also has great quick drying properties. Also if you are into low cost and easy care products the jacket which can be put in the machine to wash is what you should get.

Polyester has its practical benefits and is a cheaper option but in that which is classic and durable when it comes to outerwear high quality wool still stands unbeatable in terms of time worn warmth and comfort as well as sustainability.

FAQS for UK Customers

Q1: Is 100 polyester good for cold weather?

A: Yes, we have that — 100% polyester is a great material for cold weather because it does a fantastic job at trapping in heat which in turn keeps you warm. Also, it works very well in insulated and padded jackets.

Q2: Is 60% wool warm enough?

A: Yes we see that 60% wool does a great job in cold weather it is very effective for insulation which also improves when the wool is mixed with materials like polyester or nylon.

Q3: Which coat material is best to prevent overheating and sweating?

A: A natural fiber coat in cotton or wool is what you want for protection against over heating and sweating as these materials do a better job at air flow and temperature regulation than synthetics like polyester.

Q4: What setting to wash polyester in washing machine?

A: Wash your polyesters on a cool or hot gentle cycle (30-40 degrees) to care for the fabric and also to prevent shrinkage and damage.

Q5: How does Express Jackets UK balance quality in wool/synthetic blends?

A: Express in the UK we see to it that we balance quality in wool and synthetic blends which we put together for their warmth and breathability from the wool and the durability, water resistance and easy care from the synthetics we present our customers with coats which do well in the UK climate as well as being economic and very long wearing.