Alpaca Garments – Properties and Care
The Alpaca
Alpacas are native to the Peruvian Andes and have been domesticated since pre-Inca times. They are medium-sized animals, standing about 80–90 cm tall and weighing between 48 and 84 kg. With slender bodies, long necks, and pointed ears, alpacas are among the most graceful camelids of South America.
They live in large herds on the Andean plateau at altitudes of 3,000–4,000 meters, enduring extreme conditions such as strong winds, high solar radiation, sudden temperature changes, and low oxygen. These harsh environments have allowed alpacas to develop a remarkably warm, resistant, and high-quality coat.
Alpacas are sheared once a year without harming the animal, producing on average around 3–5 kg of fiber per shearing. The fiber is then carefully sorted by hand according to its quality, length, and color before being transformed into garments.
Properties of Alpaca Fiber
Alpaca fiber is unique and highly valued worldwide for qualities that set it apart from other wools:
- Softer and warmer than sheep’s wool, stronger than cashmere.
- Naturally hypoallergenic — it does not contain lanolin, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
- Thermoregulating — keeps you warm in the cold and cool in warmer conditions.
- Moisture-resistant — absorbs humidity while repelling water, retaining its shape and quality.
- Breathable and lightweight, yet extremely durable.
- Naturally available in over 20 shades, easily dyed, and resistant to fading.
- Silky and lustrous — it maintains its shine even after dyeing and washing.
- Long-lasting — garments do not deform, pill, or wear out easily.
- Resistant to fungi, microorganisms, and even solar radiation.
- Eco-friendly — alpaca fiber is renewable, biodegradable, and processed with ancestral techniques that respect the environment.
Care and Maintenance
Alpaca garments are easy to care for thanks to the fiber’s natural qualities. To preserve their beauty and durability:
- Store only when completely dry.
- Fold neatly to avoid wrinkles.
- Avoid hanging on hooks to prevent stretching.
- Keep in breathable bags (avoid plastic and naphthalene).
With proper care, alpaca garments last for many years, maintaining their shape, softness, and elegance.
A Symbol of Peru
Since 2004, alpaca fiber has been officially recognized as a “Flagship Product of Peru,” honoring its cultural heritage and its role as one of the most sustainable and luxurious natural fibers in the world.