Evolving over 1,100 years of exposure to the sub-Arctic climate, Icelandic wool has a distinctive combination of inner and outer fibres. The outer fibres are long, glossy, tough and water-resistant, while the inner ones are fine, soft and insulating, providing a high resistance to cold. Together these two distinctive fibres create a wool that is:

Lightweight - lighter than most other wools, keeping you warm and comfortable.

Water-repellent - repels rain and stays feeling dry.

Breathable - moisture passes through the fibres away from the skin, keeping you dry and comfortable.

A further striking characteristic of the Icelandic sheep is its natural colours: black, grey and brown as well as the usual white. Together, these create the distinctive look of Icelandic knitwear, one of the best-known examples of which is the Lopi sweater.