Possums give us something really special – their fur. Possum fibre is a favourite at New Zealand Natural Clothing because of its characteristics and what it does for our local ecosystem.

Possums aren’t native to New Zealand but we are now overrun with them, which means a fantastic supply of fibre for quality garments! 

But why do we love possum fibre so much?  

First, we’ll introduce you to the possum and then we’ll give you seven reasons why their fibre is so great.

No really. It doesn’t freeze. The only other fibre that doesn’t freeze is polar bear fur. This is because of the hollow hair structure, which traps warmth and acts as an insulator.

Possum blends with other fibres really well and together produce something wonderful. For example, if you mix possum fibre and merino wool you get a low-pilling, anti static garment.

Thanks to the unique hollow composition of possum fibre, it's really light. With possum fibre you get a very warm garment that is easy to wear because of how lightweight it is.

Nobody likes smelly. Possum fur takes moisture away from the body rather than trapping it and making you sweat.

Here in New Zealand possums are pests. Culling them for their luscious fur helps us to manage our major pest problem.

This protects our native species, keeps our raw materials local and creates some beautiful quality garments. The New Zealand government wants eradication by 2050 the NZ Fur council wishes them luck as they are in some very remote places and hard to reach.

Probably the most important aspect of possum fibre is that it’s natural. It’s a natural fibre that has great properties for us as consumers.

We now know how warm, silky, odour-resistant and lightweight possum fibre is. We know it blends remarkably well and helps us protect our ecosystem in New Zealand.

Here are some of our favourite possum products:

In 2020, we saw a significant rise in sales of the MKM 36.6 range of possum-lined garments and accessories. Why? Warm, durable, breathable, and great for work and play. We have a huge range of possum accessories such as, ponchos, wraps, hats, gloves, scarves, leg and arm warmers knitted with blends of possum Merino and silk. To add individuality and a luxurious look; possum fur trims are added to some of these, you must agree, they look great!

The look of your home will be enhanced with these possum-Merino blend throws and blankets. We like to have one on the couch for snuggling or at the end of the bed to complete the look of the room and to pull up when the need is there for superior warmth.

Our range of socks is the biggest on show in NZ. Our Norsewood store has 100m2 of floor area just for socks. About 20% of these socks contain possum fibre. Again the warmth of the trapped heat in the hollow possum fibre is a favourite of many of our customers. They love having toasty toes and being comfortable out in the elements.

What possum item will you be adding to your wardrobe? 

If you have any questions about which products would work for your lifestyle, get in touch! We love chatting and getting to know our customers.

Just drop us a line in the chat box if you have any questions.