Fabric guide · Updated
What is worsted wool, and why is it used for uniforms?
Worsted vs woollen yarn, why combing matters, and what it means for uniform and suit fabric.
Wool cloth comes in two families: woollen and worsted. The difference starts long before weaving, in how the fibre is prepared and spun.
Combing makes the difference
For worsted yarn, the fibre is combed: the fibres are laid parallel and the short ones are removed. The yarn that results is smooth, strong and fine.
Woollen yarn is only carded, so the fibres point in every direction. It is soft and lofty, good for coats and blankets, but fuzzier and less durable.
What worsted gives a garment
A clean surface
The weave is clearly visible and the cloth resists pilling.
Strength
Long parallel fibres make a strong yarn that survives daily wear.
Shape
Worsted holds a crease and drapes well, which tailoring needs.
Worsted for uniforms
A uniform is worn every day, cleaned often and must look the same on every person. That is why most service uniforms use worsted wool or a worsted wool blend with polyester, which adds abrasion resistance.
All Woolentex fabrics are worsted, and their quality is measured by ISO methods.