Merino Wool Natural Flame Resistance

Why Woolery Chooses Naturally Flame-Resistant Wool

At Armadillo Woolery, we rely on the natural performance power of Merino wool—particularly its built-in flame resistance. As awareness grows around firefighter health and the dangers of toxic station wear, more people are asking the right questions: What’s in the gear we wear? And what is it doing to our bodies?

The Hidden Danger in Chemically Treated Fabrics

To make fabrics flame-resistant, many companies add a long list of synthetic chemicals—some of which release harmful gases when exposed to heat or flames. These gases, absorbed through the skin or inhaled, have been linked to endocrine disruption, chronic illness, and cancer. In a profession where exposure to extreme environments is unavoidable, adding another layer of chemical risk is a compromise we’re not willing to make.

That’s why our co-founders, driven by both science and personal experience, launched Armadillo Woolery—to provide the healthiest, safest station wear possible by using one of nature’s smartest fibers: Merino wool.

Why Merino Wool Is Naturally Flame-Resistant

The flame resistance of Merino wool comes from its unique physical structure and chemical makeup. It contains about 14% nitrogen and holds a relatively high amount of moisture—two key traits that give it superior performance:

• High ignition temperature (570–600°C)

• Will not melt or stick to skin

• Forms a protective char and self-extinguishes

• High Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) of 20–25%, meaning it requires a higher oxygen level than normal air to sustain combustion

• Burns slowly with low heat release

What This Means for First Responders

In real-world conditions, Merino wool doesn’t support flame spread. While it may smolder if exposed to an open flame, it will self-extinguish once the flame is removed—without releasing toxic fumes. When heated, the wool’s cellular structure swells, forming an insulating char layer that blocks further ignition.

Among common textile fibers—like cotton, rayon, polyester, acrylic, and nylon—Merino wool stands apart for its natural flame resistance.

Key Benefits of Armadillo Woolery Station Wear

• Naturally flame-resistant with no chemical treatments

• Outperforms all conventional fibers in flame resistance

• Doesn’t melt or stick to skin

• Low combustion and heat release rate

• Self-extinguishing once the ignition source is gone

A Safer Choice for Those Who Serve

Too many first responders wear synthetic “moisture-wicking” base layers that melt under heat or release toxic gases. These materials simply don’t belong in environments where safety is non-negotiable.

Merino wool, on the other hand, offers natural protection—without the chemical burden. It’s the safest, healthiest choice for next-to-skin clothing, and it’s the last line of defense for those who run toward danger.

Armadillo Woolery exists to protect the protectors.