Why Use Wool in the Sauna?

What is wool?

Wool is the soft, curly fleece that grows on a sheep’s body. Different breeds of sheep grow different textures and thicknesses of wool. If you have a connotation of wool being scratchy, you are partly right – but depending on the breed, some wool can be silky smooth. Don’t judge all wool based on memories of itchy sweaters! ROSISU uses 100% wool felt that is soft to the touch.

 

Humans began raising sheep for their wool somewhere around 8,000 years ago. Due to millenia of breeding, sheep today do not naturally shed their thick wool fleece, and need to be shaved (or “shorn”) once or twice per year. Shearing does not harm sheep; in fact, it is essential for their health and wellbeing. And shearing leaves us with the phenomenal resource of wool, which has numerous standout qualities that can’t be matched by other fibers:

• Wool is both breathable and a fantastic insulator

• Wool will resist developing odors, even if you sweat in it

• Wool is naturally flame-resistant

• Wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture before it starts to feel damp

• Wool is a renewable resource! When sheep are raised with responsible farming practices, wool production can build soil health and benefit the environment

Why wear wool hats in the sauna?

It may seem counterintuitive to wear a wool hat in a high heat environment like the sauna. But in the sauna, your head will likely become overheated before the rest of your body. When you wear a wool felt sauna hat, you insulate your head, scalp, and ears against the extreme heat of the sauna, allowing you to stay in until the rest of your body is ready to get out. 

Wool sauna hats insulate your head while still allowing airflow, so your head doesn’t feel suffocated, just protected. By shielding your sensitive scalp and head, it can help with the dizziness or sick feeling that comes from overheating. 

Promoting wellness for you and the planet

ROSISU is proud to use wool grown by small farmers who employ responsible farming practices, prioritizing health of their animals and their soil. Our wool is minimally processed from farm to felt, meaning no toxic chemicals are used in the production process. You can sweat out toxins without worrying about what may be seeping in through your hat.