Sheepskin in Summer: Why It Keeps You Cool (Not Hot)
As the Aussie summer rolls in, most people assume sheepskin is only for winter. But genuine sheepskin is one of nature’s most breathable materials — it helps you stay cool, dry and comfortable even in the heat.
From baby pram liners to car seat covers, medical sheepskin and home décor, its natural fibres regulate temperature, wick away sweat and prevent that sticky summer discomfort.
We’re here to bust a few myths about that.
Why Sheepskin Feels Comfortable in the Heat
-
Sheepskin naturally breathes. Each wool fibre acts like a tiny climate-control system, letting air circulate and releasing excess humidity so heat doesn’t build up.
-
It wicks moisture. Wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in vapour before feeling damp, helping your skin stay dry.
-
It balances temperature. Sheepskin keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer by equalising the temperature next to your skin.
That’s why you’ll often see Merino sheepskin and wool used in activewear and hiking gear — it’s not just for cold weather.
Is Sheepskin Too Hot for Summer?
Not at all. In fact, it’s one of the few natural materials that feels comfortable year-round.
Real-life example: your car seat in summer
Everyone in Australia knows the feeling — climbing into a sun-baked car in January and feeling the seat could fry an egg.
Leather or vinyl seats soak up heat fast and can burn your legs, especially if you’re wearing shorts. But a sheepskin car seat cover stays surprisingly neutral in temperature — it won’t scorch your skin or make you stick to the seat.
That’s because the fibres trap a cushion of air and let heat and moisture escape, keeping the surface breathable.
Does Sheepskin Make You Sweat?
No — sheepskin actually helps stop that sticky, sweaty feeling before it starts.
Unlike synthetics or coated leather that trap heat, the wool fibres move moisture vapour away from your skin. That’s a big reason why many healthcare and aged-care professionals use medical-grade sheepskin overlays all year round.
Why Sheepskin Works for Babies in Summer
A baby lambskin rug is perfect for supervised playtime or stroller rides in warm weather.
The fine Merino fibres create a soft, breathable layer that buffers heat and humidity — so bub stays comfy even on hot days.
Parents love it for tummy time, pram liners and travel — because it keeps babies cool in summer and cosy in winter. Always follow safe-sleep guidelines and use the rug for supervised rest and play.
Is Medical Sheepskin Suitable in Hot Weather?
Absolutely. Australian Medical Sheepskin (AS 4480.1 certified) is designed to regulate temperature and wick away sweat — ideal for anyone spending long hours sitting or lying down, even in warmer months.
Hospitals and aged-care facilities use them year-round to help keep skin dry and comfortable.
Summer use ideas:
-
On a recliner or wheelchair to stay cool and cushioned
-
As a bed overlay to manage humidity during hot nights
-
For travel or day rest — lightweight and easy to air-dry
Sheepskin at Home: Comfort Beyond Winter
Ever noticed how sticky your leather or PU sofa feels in summer? Your skin clings, and getting up leaves that unpleasant “peel-off” sound.
Placing a sheepskin throw or long-wool rug on your couch or chair fixes that instantly. The fibres create airflow between you and the surface, so you won’t sweat or stick — just soft, breathable comfort.
Long-wool sheepskins also make great bedside rugs: plush underfoot without trapping heat.
Care Tips for Warm Weather
-
Air regularly: Hang outside in the shade to refresh the fibres and release moisture.
-
Brush gently: Keeps fibres lofty and cool-feeling.
-
Avoid direct sun or UV: Especially for dyed sheepskins — bright sun can fade colour.
-
Rotate use: Keep a spare for your baby rug or medical sheepskin so one can air while the other’s in use.
Summer Products to Try
When UGG boot season winds down, switch focus to these summer-friendly sheepskin essentials:
-
Baby Lambskin Rugs & Pram Liners – naturally breathable and gentle on skin.
-
Medical Sheepskin Range (AS 4480.1) – moisture-wicking comfort for warm days.
-
Long-Wool Sheepskin Rugs – stylish home comfort that stays cool to the touch.
-
Sheepskin Car Seat Mats – no more burning seats or sweaty backs in traffic.
Myth Busted
If you’ve ever felt leather or vinyl sticking to your skin in summer, you already know the value of a breathable layer.
Sheepskin is nature’s climate control — keeping you cool when it’s hot, and warm when it’s cold.