Short answer: buy cashmere when you want the softest, warmest jumper for its weight, and merino when you want an easy, breathable knit for the office and travel. Whichever you choose, check the fibre content on the label, the weight of the knit and how it is finished at the cuffs and neck. This guide explains each point, then shows where to start in the WARDLEY London range.
Cashmere vs merino: the quick comparison
- Softness: cashmere fibres are finer and loftier, so cashmere feels softer and more luxurious against the skin. Fine merino is soft too, and most people can wear it next to the skin.
- Warmth for weight: cashmere traps more air, so a cashmere jumper is usually warmer than a merino jumper of the same weight.
- Everyday wear: merino is more hard-wearing, breathes well and copes better with a busy week at the office or a long day of travel.
- Care: both need a cool wash and drying flat. Cashmere needs a little more patience, especially in its first few wears.
Pure cashmere or a cashmere blend?
"Cashmere" on a title can mean 100% cashmere or a blend of cashmere with wool or other fibres. A blend can be warmer and tougher than you might expect and is often easier to look after, while pure cashmere is the softest option. Always read the composition line on the product page, not just the name, so you know exactly what you are buying.
What makes a good cashmere jumper
- A dense knit: hold it up to the light. A knit you can barely see through will keep its shape and warmth for longer than a loose, thin one.
- Weight to suit how you wear it: a heavy cable knit is a jumper you can wear on its own on cold days; a finer knit layers under a coat or over a shirt.
- Firm ribbing: the cuffs, hem and neck should spring back when stretched, so the jumper does not sag after a few wears.
- The right fit: knitwear should sit close without pulling across the chest. Check the garment measurements on each product page against a jumper you already own.
Which neckline should you choose?
- Crew neck: the most versatile, on its own or over a T-shirt.
- V-neck: the classic choice over a shirt and tie or an open collar.
- Roll neck: the smartest way to wear knitwear under a coat or blazer without a shirt.
- Zip neck and cardigans: easy to open and close as the temperature changes through the day.
Where to start at WARDLEY London
- Faringdon Heavy Cashmere Cable Crew Jumper: a heavy cable crew for the coldest days.
- Hungerford Thick Cashmere-Wool V-Neck Jumper: a thick V-neck to wear over a shirt.
- Marlborough Cashmere Knitted Hoodie: relaxed weekend knitwear.
- Lacock Merino Wool Roll Neck: a fine roll neck for under a coat or blazer.
- Bradford Merino Wool Crew Neck: an everyday crew neck for the office.
- Malvern Merino Wool Shawl Collar Cardigan: a layer to open or close through the day.
- Woodstock Pure Cashmere Knit Scarf: an easy gift for him.
See the full men's cashmere and merino knitwear collection, or all men's jumpers and knitwear.
How to wash and store cashmere and merino
- Hand wash in cool water or use your machine's wool cycle, with a wool detergent.
- Do not wring. Roll the jumper in a towel to press the water out.
- Dry flat, away from radiators and direct sun.
- Fold rather than hang, so the shoulders do not stretch.
- Small bobbles are normal in the first few wears; remove them gently with a fabric comb.
- Always follow the care label on your garment.
Frequently asked questions
Is cashmere warmer than merino?
For the same weight, usually yes. Cashmere fibres trap more air, so cashmere feels warmer without extra bulk.
Does cashmere bobble?
Some bobbling is normal, especially where the jumper rubs against a bag strap or under the arms. It settles after the first few wears and is easy to remove with a fabric comb.
Can I wear merino next to the skin?
Most people can. Fine merino is much softer than traditional wool and is a good choice for a jumper you will wear all day.
How should a cashmere jumper fit?
Close to the body without pulling across the chest, with the shoulder seam at the edge of your shoulder and cuffs that reach the wrist bone. Compare the garment measurements on the product page with a jumper you own.
What is your delivery and returns policy?
UK delivery is free and tracked, and UK returns are free within 30 days. Full details are on each product page.
