Wool Shirts Ideal for Office in Heat, Says Textile Expert

René Rossi, a textile researcher at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), suggests wool is the optimal choice for office attire during hot weather. Rossi explained that while cotton absorbs moisture, wool's fibers trap it internally, keeping the skin feeling dry and preventing the buildup of odor-causing bacteria.

"For the office, a wool shirt is a good choice," Rossi stated. He noted that wool shirts do not develop odors because bacteria cannot access the trapped sweat within the fibers. However, he cautioned against wearing pure wool during strenuous activities like jogging, as it can become saturated with sweat, hindering the body's evaporative cooling process.

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For the office, a wool shirt is a good choice.

Rossi elaborated on the importance of evaporative cooling, explaining that it helps regulate body temperature. "While we sit here, our body produces about 100 watts of heat. A marathon runner produces around 1000 watts," he said. "His core body temperature rises so much that he risks heatstroke if he cannot dissipate the heat." This dissipation is most effectively achieved through sweat evaporation.

For sports, Rossi recommended a wool-polyester blend for activities such as moderate hiking. This combination balances moisture management with the need for efficient cooling during physical exertion.

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While we sit here, our body produces about 100 watts of heat. A marathon runner produces around 1000 watts. His core body temperature rises so much that he risks heatstroke if he cannot dissipate the heat.