Abstract. The paper explores, experimentally and theoretically, the possibility of producing a novel cladding sandwich panel comprised of a low-density wood fibre (WF) core and faces made of wood-based panels.Tests on small specimens, using physical and optical devices, were performed for the basic mechanical characterization of WF. Shear modulus (G) was the main target; and values for a range of nominal densities (ρ) from 110 to 190 kg/m 3 were obtained.Short term load tests on real scale WF sandwich (WFS) specimens of 3.2m span were also performed. An initial simple analytical structural linear model, taking into account the shear deformation of the core, was used to evaluate the data obtaining a reasonable agreement.The results show that WFSs are a viable solution at least for claddings; special care must be taken, however, in the selection of the face panels due to the influence of hygro-thermal changes. The line of work is especially attractive as WF is a natural and sustainable product.