The Wonder of Alpaca Wool
The finest fiber from the Peruvian Andes
A 5,000-Year Legacy
Alpacas have been domesticated and bred in the Peruvian Andes for over 5,000 years. The Inca civilization prized alpaca fiber so highly that it was reserved for royalty, earning it the name "The Fiber of the Gods."
Today, Peru remains the largest producer of alpaca fiber, with approximately 4 million alpacas grazing in the highlands at elevations of 12,000 to 16,000 feet. The harsh mountain climate produces fiber of exceptional quality.
The Luxurious Fleece
Alpaca fleece is renowned for its incredible softness and warmth. Unlike sheep wool, alpaca fiber contains no lanolin, making it naturally hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin.
The fiber structure features microscopic air pockets that provide superior insulation while remaining lightweight and breathable. This unique construction makes alpaca garments comfortable in both cold and mild weather.
Meet the Alpaca
Alpacas are gentle, curious animals that produce one of the world's finest natural fibers. Each alpaca yields approximately 5-10 pounds of fleece per year during the annual spring shearing.
There are two breeds: Huacaya (fluffy, crimped fleece) and Suri (silky, lustrous locks). Both produce fiber prized by artisans worldwide.
Why Alpaca is Superior
| Property | Alpaca | Cashmere | Sheep Wool |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warmth | 3x warmer | 1.5x warmer | Baseline |
| Softness | Very soft | Very soft | Can be itchy |
| Durability | Very high | Moderate | High |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes (no lanolin) | No | No |
| Pilling | Minimal | Moderate | High |
| Sustainability | Excellent | Good | Good |
Unique Properties
Thermoregulating
Hollow fiber structure traps air for insulation while allowing breathability in varying temperatures.
Water Resistant
Natural water-repellent properties keep you dry in light rain and snow.
Flame Resistant
Alpaca fiber is naturally flame-resistant without chemical treatments.
22 Natural Colors
Alpacas come in 22 natural colors, from white to black and many browns.
Odor Resistant
Natural antimicrobial properties help resist odors between washes.
UV Protective
Provides natural protection against harmful UV rays.
Alpaca Fiber Grades
Alpaca fiber is graded by fineness, measured in microns. Finer fiber is softer and more valuable.
Royal Alpaca
Under 18 microns
The finest, most luxurious grade. Extremely rare and prized.
Baby Alpaca
18-21 microns
First shearing or finest adult fibers. Silky smooth.
Superfine
21-25 microns
Premium quality for fine garments and accessories.
Adult
25-30 microns
Great for blankets, outerwear, and home goods.