Story: Aran Sweaters
3 things you need to know about the Aran Sweater
There’s no better way to stay cozy and look stylish than in a classic Aran sweater. Its iconic status is undeniable so it’s not surprising that Aran sweaters continue to remain our top sellers here at The Irish Store.
The Aran sweater takes its name from the trio of islands on the west of Ireland just off the coast of County Galway. The islander women knitted the first Aran sweaters as a protective layer for the islander fishermen and farmers. Here’s some interesting facts about one of Ireland’s most famous exports.
1. The Original Fisherman’s Sweater
The first Aran sweaters were made for fishermen but did you know that they were actually waterproof! The original yarn was unscoured. Unscoured wool retains its natural lanolin making it water resistant. Perfect for braving the harsh conditions of the unforgiving Atlantic Ocean and a far cry from the soft merino and pure wool yarns that are used today.