What characteristic does wool possess that makes it favorable for carpet materials?

Wool is favored for carpet materials primarily due to its natural crimp, which contributes to its excellent resilience and texture. The natural crimp in wool fibers creates air pockets, providing insulation and cushioning. This characteristic helps the carpets maintain their shape and bounce back after being walked on, contributing to longevity and comfort. The natural crimp also enhances the carpet's ability to retain its appearance over time, making it an appealing option for both aesthetic and functional purposes.

While other factors such as cost, availability, and durability can influence the choice of carpet materials, it is the unique properties of natural crimp that particularly highlight wool as a superior choice in certain applications, allowing it to stand out among synthetic fibers.