Why Merino wool is
your best riding gear.
When you’re out on the bike, the last thing you want is gear that holds you back. You need clothing that works with you, not against you. That’s exactly why we chose Merino wool for our base layers, necktubes, balaclavas, and other Merino products. It’s a natural material that’s built for the road, no matter the conditions.
Our Merino wool is a true game changer because of its incredible ability to regulate temperature. It’s a natural fiber that keeps you cool when it’s hot and warm when it’s not. In the heat, it wicks moisture away to keep you dry and comfortable. When the temperature drops, it traps warmth close to your body. This single layer handles all seasons with ease.
cool when
it’s hot,
warm when
it’s not
This stuff is seriously smart.
Merino wool fibers can absorb a lot of moisture without feeling damp to the touch, which is key for staying comfortable on a long ride. Plus, it’s naturally odor-resistant, so you only need one item for a multiday road trip.
For us, the choice was simple. We believe in quality and durability. Merino wool is lightweight, soft, and itch-free, which is a huge bonus. You get all the performance benefits of a modern fabric with the classic feel of a natural material. This gear is made to be worn and loved for years to come.
Ultimately, our Merino wool collection is about a simple idea: the best gear is the kind you forget you’re even wearing. It just becomes a natural part of your ride, letting you focus on the road ahead.
we think our rusty monkey mascot is a genius, but even he
has to admit merino wool beats monkey hair any day.
A Conscious Choice
As riders, we’re more connected to the elements than most. While our bikes run on combustion, that doesn’t mean we can’t make smart choices where we can. That’s where wool is a game-changer. It’s a simple, circular process: sheep graze, grow their fleece, and we use that natural material to create gear. It’s a world away from synthetics made with petroleum. So, instead of fighting tradition, we’re embracing it. This isn’t your grandfather’s scratchy sweater; it’s a soft, conscious choice for the future of riding.
100% Merino
We’re all about authenticity, and that extends to our gear. Everything in our collection that uses Merino wool is 100% pure. Our products are certified by Woolmark, a sign that the quality and production chain are checked by an independent organization. It’s an extra guarantee that what you’re getting is the real deal.
Merino Wool Benefits Natural
• Hygroscopic fiber
• Soft on the skin
• Temperature regulation
• Breathable
• Odor resistant
• Antibacterial properties
• Quick-dry
• UV protection
• Flame resistant
Sustainable
• Natural material
• Renewable
• Biodegradable
• Recyclable
• Circular
All Merino products
The Production Process
Want the best wool? You need Merino sheep. Their fleece is among the finest nature has to offer. These sheep thrive on space, grass, fresh water, and sunlight. Each year, they grow a new fleece. The Merino wool used in Rusty Stitches clothing comes from happy, healthy sheep raised in Australia.
Merino sheep are sheared by professional shearers. Shearing is essential for their wellbeing and must be done at least once a year—helping prevent issues like myiasis (skin infections caused by fly larvae). Proper airflow to the skin reduces health risks.
The raw wool is first graded based on fiber length. Long fibers go through the worsted process, while short ones go through the woollen process. The wool is then cleaned in hot water, dried, and softened by combing.
Once ready, the Merino wool is spun into yarn via either the worsted or woollen spinning process. The fibers are drawn, combed again, and stretched to reach optimal length. The spun yarn is then wound and prepared for fabric production.
From high-tech 3D knitting to traditional looms—fabric construction plays a crucial role in how the final garment feels and performs. Not just softness or thickness, but also breathability and itch-free wearability depend on this stage.
Though dyeing can occur at different stages, it’s often done after knitting. The Merino wool is naturally dyed using water-based, eco-friendly dyes that are absorbed into the fiber for long-lasting, vibrant color.
Once the fabric has been dyed, it’s crafted into the final garment—washed, pressed, and cut to size. Whether it’s a shirt or a pair of socks, it’s now ready to be worn on all your everyday adventures.
