Natural sheepskin has been used for centuries to make clothes, boots, slippers, blankets, rugs and other accessories. But why is it still so popular? What are its benefits and advantages? Why choose natural sheepskin over any other synthetic material? Here are just a few reasons behind this timeless material's reputation.
Thermal insulation
Sheepskin is renowned for its excellent thermal insulation properties. It is composed of two layers: leather and wool. Leather is the inner part of the skin, which is supple and resistant. Wool is the outer part of the skin, made of natural fibres.
These fibres form air pockets, trapping heat and creating an insulating barrier to maintain a pleasant, constant temperature, preventing heat loss or excess.
This ability to protect against the cold is why merino or lambswool is chosen for clothing, socks and blankets. Sheepskin slippers and rugs are also ideal for keeping feet warm on cold ceramic or concrete floors.
Comfort and softness
Generally appreciated for its soft texture and comfort, sheepskin contains lanolin. Lanolin is a fatty substance that protects sheep’s skin. It is also great for human skin. Lanolin has moisturizing, healing, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It helps prevent skin dryness, irritation, infections and allergies. These natural properties are advantages not found in synthetic materials.
The comfort of a pair of sheepskin slippers is because they take on the shape of a person’s foot and their ability to regulate foot temperature. It reduces heat when it's too hot and increases heat when it's too cold. This is why sheepskin products such as slippers benefit blood circulation.
Moisture regulation and breathability
Thanks to its structure, sheepskin can absorb moisture without getting wet, helping to maintain a dry, comfortable environment. In fact, wool fibres are coated with a thin layer of wax that makes them waterproof. Moisture is thus evacuated to the outside without penetrating the material.
Unlike some synthetic materials, sheepskin is also breathable. This means it allows air to circulate and helps regulate body temperature to prevent excessive perspiration. This is one more reason to opt for a natural sheepskin garment, boot or slipper to keep warm.
Durability and strength
Natural sheepskin is durable and resistant, making it the perfect material selected
by our craftspeople. Sheepskin products are long-lasting, reducing the need for frequent replacement. They retain their shape and qualities over time, making them a long-term investment.
Sheep’s wool is a strong material, resistant to tearing, rubbing and staining. It's also easy to maintain, with a minimum of care. Simply brush regularly and dust with a damp cloth. To find out how to care for your slippers according to their material, consult our care guide for slippers.
Various uses
In addition to clothing and accessories, sheepskin is also used for interior decor. From rugs to cushions to throws, it offers a variety of options to enhance interior spaces. It adds a touch of warmth, softness and comfort, creating a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
There are also medicalized sheepskins with multiple benefits for the elderly, paraplegics, wheelchair users, babies, seated workers, the injured, the immobilized and those suffering from sprains or fractures. These medicalized skins undergo a very specific tanning process called Relugan, which guarantees their suitability for medical use. This type of hide can be recognized by its golden yellow colour and strands that are around 3 cm long.
Hypoallergenic properties
Sheepskin is often considered hypoallergenic, making it less likely to cause allergic reactions. It is also naturally antibacterial and antifungal thanks to the lanolin it contains. It prevents the growth of bacteria and fungi responsible for infections and odours. It is also resistant to dust mites, which are common allergens that cause various symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, cough or asthma. A product made from wool is the perfect choice for people with skin or respiratory issues.
An eco-friendly material
If sheepskin production is carried out sustainably, it can be considered a more
environmentally friendly option than some synthetic materials. This is because sheepskin is a natural, biodegradable and renewable product, requiring fewer resources and less energy than artificial products. Sheepskins are also derived from animals that are primarily raised for meat, milk or wool. That's why we take care to choose quality sheepskins from the world's most reputable brands.
For all these reasons, for over 40 years, we've been using this rich material to create and manufacture our famous slippers. For more specific product information, please refer to our frequently asked questions. You can also browse our sheepskin slipper collections for women, men and children to find the perfect pair to keep your feet warm and healthy this winter.
Sources:
https://www.la-canadienne.com/le-mag/5-raisons-dadopter-une-peau-lainee/
https://universplaid.fr/blogs/infos-plaid/les-5-avantages-de-la-laine-de-mouton
https://www.peaudevache.com/fr/blog/la-peau-de-mouton-medicalisee-de-multiples-bienfaits-b36.htm