How warm is my wool?

Two of our wooly Jacob sheep

Our Jacob sheep are a dual-purpose meat and wool breed of sheep.


We shear our sheep each year in the spring. By the time the weather turns cold again, their fleece is thick and warm.


Why do you think the sheep stay warm as they spend the day outside in the winter snow and ice?

One of our sheep’s fleece after shearing

Did you know …? Wool fibers have kinks and bends that trap cold air to keep it away from the sheep’s body (or your body, if you are wearing a wool sweater!)


Wool also absorbs moisture. When the weather outside is damp and cold, the sheep’s fleece holds a layer of warm, dry air next to their skin.

Warm sheep on a cool, fall day.


Did you know …? Wool clothing also keeps a person cool in the summer because the wool fibers absorb humidity and keep a layer of dry air next to the skin.

Fleece after shearing from one of our Jacob sheep


Additional Resources

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