This really depends on the type, quality and post processing of the wool. Also a small addition of synthetic fibers can drastically improve performance. I got

This really depends on the type, quality and post processing of the wool. Also a small addition of synthetic fibers can drastically improve performance. I got merino base layer clothing with non of the downsides you mentioned, while maintaining the positives. I also got a thick 100% wool pullover, which was intensely post-processed, to the point of losing some wool qualities, but you can wash it at 60°C without any problem.