BUYING GUIDE

The Difference Between Icelandic and Australian Sheepskin Rugs

Icelandic Sheepskin

A wild, shaggy look and feel
Wool is long and coarse
4 - 6" pile (wool length)
Wool lays flat

Australian Sheepskin

Soft and plush
Short and dense
2.5" pile
Very high loft (ability to stay upright)

Icelandic Sheepskin

Descended from sheep the Vikings brought to Iceland, Icelandic sheepskin is thicker, coarser and long, with 4 – 6″ pile (wool length). Australian sheepskin rugs, on the other hand, come from sheep of Merino wool heritage, with wool that is shorter, denser and softer, with pile around 2.5″ in length. Because of its density, the loft (ability to stay upright) of the Australian sheepskin wool is very high, whereas the longer Icelandic wool lays flat.

Australian Sheepskin

Australian skins are generally a larger size and have a round, uniform shape. Australian skins typically have a higher wool density. This is largely due to the sheep breeds in Australia. To achieve premium-grade standards, the Australian sheepskin rug must possess both the necessary wool density and length, which is a minimum of 65 mm. Wool density determines the ability of the wool on the rug to remain upright and straight longer. Also important is the wool's loft, or its ability to stay upright and straight.

Which is Better?

It's entirely a matter of preference, as they're both great rugs of the highest quality. If you're looking for a long, shaggy sheepskin rug, Icelandic is the choice. For a soft, plush one, choose Australian.

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The Difference Between Icelandic and Australian Sheepskin Rugs

Icelandic Sheepskin

Australian Sheepskin

Icelandic Sheepskin

Australian Sheepskin

Which is Better?

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