We understand that the origin of Merino wool and the conditions in which sheep are kept raise important questions. We take critical reports about mulesing and animal welfare seriously. We therefore want to explain transparently where our wool comes from and which requirements apply to our partners.
Where does GIESSWEIN source its Merino wool?
GIESSWEIN sources Merino wool from:
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Uruguay
The same binding requirement applies to wool from all countries of origin: we use only mulesing-free wool.
What does “mulesing-free” mean?
Mulesing is a procedure in which sections of skin are removed from around a sheep’s tail. The practice is discussed critically, particularly in connection with sheep farming in Australia.
Mulesing-free means that the wool we use does not come from sheep that have undergone this procedure.
How does GIESSWEIN ensure that its wool is mulesing-free?
Animal welfare is an important consideration when selecting our materials and partners. We therefore have binding agreements with our cooperation partners requiring them to supply only mulesing-free wool.
This requirement applies regardless of whether the wool comes from Australia, New Zealand or Uruguay.
Australian origin does not automatically mean that mulesing has been used. What matters is the specific supply chain and the binding requirement to source only mulesing-free wool.
What does “mulesing-free” say about overall animal welfare?
Mulesing-free refers to one specific practice. Questions about overall animal welfare may also cover other areas, including:
- housing and access to pasture
- access to food and water
- healthcare
- transport
- shearing and the handling of animals
- supply-chain traceability
We do not wish to make general statements that go beyond the information available to us. Our binding and publicly stated requirement is the exclusive use of mulesing-free wool.
If you would like more information about a specific product, please provide its model name and article number. We will be happy to check which additional details are available for the relevant material and supply chain.
Is Merino wool vegan?
No. Merino wool is a natural fibre of animal origin and is therefore not vegan.
Customers who wish to avoid animal-derived materials can also find GIESSWEIN styles made from alternative materials. Please check the material information on the relevant product page before purchasing. Our customer service team will be happy to help you choose a suitable product.
Why does GIESSWEIN use Merino wool? 🌿
Merino wool has natural properties that make it especially comfortable and functional:
- temperature-regulating
- breathable
- moisture-regulating
- naturally odour-resistant
- soft and gentle on the skin
- elastic and shape-retaining
The fibre can absorb up to 33% of its own weight in moisture. This helps provide a pleasantly dry feel. You can find further information in our overview of GIESSWEIN materials.
Where are the products developed and manufactured?
The creative and technical development of our products takes place at our headquarters in Brixlegg, Tyrol.
Our shoes, slippers and accessories are manufactured in cooperation with selected partner factories, including facilities in China, Vietnam and Turkey. Production follows the quality requirements defined by GIESSWEIN.
You can find further information in our article about where GIESSWEIN products are manufactured.
Would you like further information?
Transparency is important to us. If you have questions about the wool used in a particular product, its origin or its material composition, please email us at shop@giesswein.com.
Please include, if possible:
- the product name
- the article number
- the colour
- your specific question about the material’s origin
This will allow us to investigate your enquiry and provide the available information.
You can also find further details in our Help Center article: Where does our Merino wool come from?
We welcome customers taking a conscious interest in materials and their origins. Your questions help make transparency more visible and support the continued development of our requirements.