How to choose an Aran sweater

A classic Aran sweater is a men’s wardrobe staple and has been around for hundreds of years. But it can be difficult to know what to look for when buying one for the first time. This guide will look at the history of what’s also known as a fisherman’s jumper and the various style features available.

Long Tradition

Aran sweaters are named after the islands off the west coast of Ireland where they originated, knitted by the wives of fishermen to keep their husbands warm and dry when out at sea. They are made of natural fibres which make the garment breathable, but also warm and water-resistant.

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According to the BBC, the signature cable pattern didn’t come about until the 20th century, but before that, many different patterns were kept secret and passed down through the generations. The stitching often had hidden meanings, such as a diamond pattern representing wealth.

Nowadays, there are many different styles of mens Irish fisherman sweaters such as the ones available at shoparan.com/mens-aran-sweaters. This means that there is something for everyone.

Types of Wool

There are several different wools used to knit an Aran sweater, including Irish wool, merino wool and a merino and cashmere blend. Most modern wearers opt for merino, as it is warm yet soft and breathable. It is ideal for those with more sensitive skin as it is less itchy. When merino wool is mixed with cashmere, it offers a more luxury knit and extra softness.

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Styles

If you don’t want to go for a traditional chunky knit, you could go for a cardigan, gilet or half-zip sweater. You can also go for crew neck, roll neck or shawl collar, depending on the look you want.

Think about how you want to wear it and what you want to match it with. To wear it under a jacket, you’ll need one that is lightweight and lined, to avoid it rubbing against the sweater and causing bobbling. You can be casual by pairing your sweater with jeans, or be smarter with tailored trousers and a blazer.