Wool Jumpers
Men's wool jumpers
Men's wool jumpers form the core of Hackett London's knitwear, built from a fibre that has outperformed synthetic alternatives on warmth and durability since the house's first collection.
Why wool remains the standard
A men's wool jumper relies primarily on lambswool and merino, both taken directly from sheep rather than blended down with synthetic fibre in the outer shell — a standard Hackett London has held since opening on King's Road in 1983. Wool naturally regulates temperature, trapping air within its crimped fibre structure to insulate in cold weather while still allowing moisture to escape, something synthetic yarns manage far less effectively. A mid-weight gauge at 220-260 g/m² is standard across the range, dense enough for standalone wear through a full winter.
A fully fashioned rib at the cuff and hem, knitted to shape rather than cut and sewn, keeps a wool jumper's edges from losing their tension after repeated wear.
Lambswool versus merino
Lambswool comes from a sheep's first shearing and carries a slightly coarser texture, while merino is spun from a finer fibre that feels notably softer against the skin. A wool jumper in merino suits direct wear against a shirt collar, while lambswool holds its shape marginally better over years of regular use.
A navy lambswool crew neck under a stone unstructured jacket with grey trousers, for an office day that stays sharp without a tie.
The same jumper over an open-collar shirt with dark denim for an evening that doesn't need the jacket at all.
Why wool resists odour better than synthetics
Wool's fibre structure absorbs moisture into its core rather than trapping it on the surface, which is why a men's wool jumper can be worn multiple times between washes without developing the odour synthetic fabrics pick up after a single wear.
What's the difference between lambswool and merino wool?
Lambswool comes from a sheep's first shearing and has a coarser, more textured hand-feel, while merino is spun from a finer fibre that feels softer against bare skin. Merino also regulates temperature more precisely across mild and cold days alike. Lambswool tends to be the more durable choice for jumpers worn frequently.
How often should a wool jumper be washed?
Wool can typically be worn several times before washing is needed, since its fibre structure resists odour and shedding far better than cotton or synthetic knits. Airing a jumper on a wide-shouldered hanger between wears often removes the need to wash it at all. Washing too frequently accelerates wear on the fibre unnecessarily.
Does wool keep you warm even when damp?
Wool retains a significant portion of its insulating properties even when damp, unlike cotton, which loses warmth almost entirely once wet. This is because wool fibres trap air within their structure regardless of moisture content. It's part of why wool remains the preferred fibre for outdoor knitwear in variable weather.