Opinions on Possum Merino Clothing

Lpaenne on 20/06/2023 - 12:53

I'm looking for a new zip jacket and have come across a bunch of possum merino blend clothing. It's not very Cheapie so was was wondering if anyone had recommendations or opinions on the material before I go try stuff on.

I see of lot of marketing fluff on how possum fur is lighter and warmer than merino but I'm pretty dubious on whether it amounts to much, especially as it seems it's mainly bought by tourists.

From what I can tell, the materials' properties are (or are claimed to be) :
- merino: odorless, warm, light, somewhat fragile, slow drying, pills
- possum: warmer, lighter, more fragile, more water resistant, softer, doesn't pill
- silk: added in as a natural alternative to nylon - stronger to improve durability, not very breathable

Any advice or validation that I wouldn't be wasting $400+ on a marketing gimmick would be appreciated.
Cheers

General Discussion

Comments

  • Alan6984 on 20/06/2023 - 14:11
    +1

    You could contact Merino (there might be a marketing body or similar) and ask them whether they agree that Possum beats Merino by being:

    warmer, lighter, more fragile, more water resistant, softer, and not pilling as much

    and if they disagree, whether they have any objective research they can point you to that proves / disproves it.

    • paenne on 27/06/2023 - 14:31

      Pretty interesting idea to contact Merino, didn't think of that, cheers

  • CheapAzChips on 20/06/2023 - 22:01
    +1

    Can't say I've tried anything man-made with possum fur, but I've shot a fair number of possums in and around our native bush and their fur is extremely soft and warm.

    I do have a couple of merino items and while they are softer than regular wool, I still find them just ever so slightly scratchy against the skin, so instinct says yes, a possum blend can only be a good thing. Are they $400 good? That's for you to decide.

  • Drcspy on 21/06/2023 - 07:46

    Years ago I had a pair of possum/merino Sox. They very quickly clumped up and lost all elasticity. Never again thanks too much cost and too easy to turn to Sh*t for my liking.

  • Wakrak on 21/06/2023 - 08:05
    +1

    I've got some clothing that is a mixture of wool and possum. Nice to wear.

    https://shop.farmlands.co.nz/mkm-tasman-half-zip-pullover/56…

    No clue on how it compares to merino though.

  • kiwical on 21/06/2023 - 08:20
    +2

    I have a possum merino hat. Without doubt the best I've ever owned. So light but luxurious and warm. It's easy to forget you are wearing it. Don't get that sweatiness that you do with man-made fibre and not scratchy or irritating like pure wool. It really does breath amazingly.

    For a jacket or other outer layer clothing I don't think you would be out in all weathers milking the cows or repairing a tractor. It's not a tough fabric. Unless you want it as an under layer it's more for a gentle cold winter stroll in the park.

    I recommend trying a beanie first, then you will want to get other clothing of the same fabric.

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