Cable Knit Alpaca Hat
Matching cable pattern to our sweater collection.
Why You Will Love It
- Softer than cashmere, naturally hypoallergenic
- 3x warmer than sheep wool
- Ethically sourced from Peruvian artisans
- Durable and resistant to pilling
About This Cable Knit Hat
The Cable Knit Hat is knitted in small batches by artisan families across the Peruvian highlands, using alpaca fiber spun from the annual spring shearing. Each piece passes through several hands: shearing in the altiplano, hand-sorting by fiber grade, spinning into yarn, dyeing with low-impact colorfast dyes, and finishing by knitters who often work from home studios in and around Cusco, Puno, and Arequipa. That distributed production model keeps craftsmanship alive in villages where textiles have been a household trade for generations.
Unlike lanolin-rich sheep wool, alpaca fiber is naturally lanolin-free. That matters for anyone who has had scratchy or itchy reactions to traditional wool. The surface scales on alpaca fiber are flatter and less pronounced than merino, so it glides against skin rather than catching. People with sensitive skin, eczema, or mild wool allergies can usually wear alpaca without the usual flare-ups.
Material & Construction
Inca Maine sources alpaca fiber from herds in the Peruvian Andes, where alpacas have been raised since before the Inca civilization. Our workshops work exclusively with alpaca fiber rather than synthetic blends, and we label each piece with its fiber grade so you know whether you are buying royal, baby, or standard alpaca. For a deeper look at fiber grades and the science behind alpaca wool, read our alpaca fiber guide.
Care Instructions
Hand wash in cool water with a gentle wool-safe detergent, or dry-clean seasonally. Never wring or twist the fabric — roll it in a clean towel to remove excess water, then reshape and lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight. Store folded (not hung) in a breathable cotton bag with cedar or lavender to deter moths. For a complete alpaca care walkthrough including washing, drying, storage, and repair, see how to care for alpaca wool.
Shipping & Returns
All orders ship from our Auburn, Maine warehouse within two business days. Standard shipping is free on orders over $150 within the continental United States; international shipping is available at checkout. We accept returns within 30 days on unworn items in original condition — see our returns policy for details.