Merino Wool Is More Than Luxury, It’s a U.S. Opportunity

What if the future of luxury fashion starts on a sheep farm in Missouri? In this fascinating field episode, Bret Schnitker and Emily Lane visit Mesta Meadows Ranch with founder Ed Crowley to explore why Merino wool may be one of fashion’s most undervalued premium materials. From live sheep shearing to fiber science, sustainability, traceability, and American manufacturing opportunities, this conversation connects agriculture directly to the future of apparel. Ed breaks down why Merino wool outperforms synthetics through thermal regulation, moisture wicking, odor resistance, durability, and softness. He also shares how genetics, climate, and responsible farming improve wool quality over time. The episode expands into bigger industry conversations around rebuilding U.S. textile processing, farm-to-skin brands, and why American-grown luxury fibers deserve more attention. As a bonus, Ed shares how dairy sheep inspired a new sheep milk ice cream brand made on-site, proving innovation can come from every part of the value chain. Connect with Mesta Meadows: https://mestameadows.com/