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July 13, 2026 2 min read
If you've spent any time browsing our scarf collection, you've probably noticed we offer both cashmere and merino wool pieces, sometimes even blended together. They can look similar at a glance, but they behave quite differently once you're wearing them. Here's what actually sets them apart, so you can choose the one that suits you best.
Cashmere comes from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats, combed out by hand once a year as the goats naturally shed their winter coat. It takes the fleece of several goats to produce enough fibre for a single scarf, which is part of why genuine cashmere carries a higher price. Merino wool comes from merino sheep, prized for producing wool that is exceptionally fine and soft compared to standard sheep's wool, without losing the natural elasticity and durability that wool is known for.
Cashmere is famous for being extraordinarily soft and lightweight against the skin, almost weightless despite how warm it is. Merino wool is also soft, noticeably softer than ordinary wool, but it retains a touch more texture and body. Some people find that texture reassuring, giving the scarf a bit more presence and structure when worn.
Both fibres are excellent insulators, but they achieve warmth differently. Cashmere traps air within its fine hollow fibres, giving remarkable warmth for such a light material. Merino wool is naturally moisture wicking and temperature regulating, meaning it keeps you warm in the cold while also managing dampness better, which makes it a strong choice if you're often moving between indoor and outdoor environments in a single day.
Merino wool tends to be the hardier of the two, standing up well to regular use, travel, and the odd accidental crush at the bottom of a bag. Cashmere is more delicate and benefits from being treated a little more gently, though with proper care it will last for years and often becomes softer with age.
If you want the ultimate in lightweight luxury for special occasions or milder days, reach for cashmere. If you want something equally soft but more suited to daily wear, travel, and unpredictable weather, merino wool is the practical choice. Many of our customers end up with both, choosing between them the way they'd choose between a smart coat and an everyday jacket.
Browse our full range of cashmere and merino wool scarves to feel the difference for yourself.
