As many call it, alpaca is the new luxury fiber that is very popular on the fashion scene. It is soft, warm, trendy, and above all, ecological. As the fashion industry begins to take a more ecological approach, alpaca wool comes as one of the most desired and suitable materials for the production of alpaca wool scarves and other garments, which holds great benefits for people and the preservation of the environment.
Those who are part of the fashion industry, and know a little bit more than the average person, certainly know that alpaca wool and cashmere are commonly mentioned together. And there is the dilemma between alpaca wool vs cashmere properties and benefits. Here, we will show you why alpaca is a much better and safer choice than cashmere.
1.- Cashmere is more expensive than alpaca
Cashmere is a popular fabric in the fashion industry. Although many consider it as the softest fabric of them all, actually alpaca is even softer. Additionally, the huge demand for cashmere has led to an increase in its price, which makes the alpaca garment more affordable. With the growth and the development of the fashion industry, the finest ancient baby Alpaca wool is considered the softest and warmest wool.
2.- Alpaca fur is ecological
Cashmere goats and other types of pasture animals tend to pull the grass off the ground, which affects the land where these animals are kept. That is not the case with alpacas since they tend to cut the grass with their teeth, which does not affect the environment. Besides, alpacas have padded feet that are much softer and have a less damaging effect over the ground around them.
3.- Alpaca wool is warmer
Perhaps you didn’t know, but there are different types of cashmere and, depending on the type of wool that is used, it can vary greatly in quality. As a result, not all cashmere fibers retain warmth. This can be best seen in the thicker outside fibers that are used in cheaper items, for example, the rugs.
In fact, the fine 14-micron wool costs a lot more, and it takes a lot of time to process, which increases the price. Baby Alpaca wool is also 14 micron or less in thickness, which not only means that it can be produced at a better price but also is warmer, more comfortable.
4.- Quality recognized since ancient times
The quality of alpaca fibers has been recognized as one of the finest since the times of the Incas in ancient Peru. Alpacas were selected for their finer fleeces and were one of the most important animals in their civilization. That is not something many types of fibers can boost about.
In fact, when scientifically measured, these fibers can be as low as 13 microns in diameter, with lighter and much more flexible structures. This means that once the product is finished, it can be so soft that it feels like touching a cloud.
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5.- No animals are killed for their wool
Alpaca is an animal that is sheared yearly. The thicker outer fleece that comes from the older animals is used in products such as carpets and rugs. The fine under-fleece, on the other hand, is used in clothing. One especially great thing is that the alpaca fur is a source of income for many families that traditionally shear these animals with care and attention. So, there is no need to worry if an alpaca was killed for your sweater or shawl.
6.- Companies work directly with local breeders
The late 2000s were the years when the cashmere industry saw significant growth. This meant a gold rush for the companies that would work and act as middlemen between the breeders and the fashion houses and companies. The same thing is now happening in Peru, where alpaca wool is becoming more and more popular. However, the companies now prefer to work directly with breeders in Peru, which means bigger profits for the breeders themselves.
So, when it comes to comparing baby alpaca vs cashmere, there is no place for doubt. Alpaca wool has much greater benefits compared to cashmere, which has inspired many companies, such as us at Silkeborg Uldspinderi, to specialize only in alpaca and baby alpaca products.
One great product that is an inevitable part of each household is the blanket. The warmest and softest blankets come from alpaca wool, so that is why our selection of alpaca wool throw blankets is colorful and extraordinary. Additionally to the blankets, the alpaca wool scarves are a soft and cozy solution that will keep you warm during the cold winter days.
In Silkeborg Uldspinderi we are here to help you. You will have at your disposal many high-quality products. If you want to buy any alpaca scarves, shawls, cushions, or throws, please don’t hesitate to contact us through our contact page.
