Alpaca’s are very cute and soft animals, coming from the Camelid family. This family also includes the llamas, camels, guanacos, and vicunas. Alpacas have been the ones that have caught the attention of the world and many industries. The fashion one being on top of them all. It all comes down to its filaments which are very interesting in clothing like alpaca scarves or shawls.
The benefits of alpaca wool are many compared to other fibers, and some aspects make it stand out. As you might know, not all-natural fibers are created equal, and all of them have different strengths. For example, the sheep’s wool has been used forever and it still has its great use, but alpaca is much more dominant and wanted.
Alpaca has been an underappreciated, underutilized, and so-called “miracle” fiber until the fashion industry discovered its big potential. Here are the top 5 reasons that make the alpaca fiber a better choice for garments and accessories over any other natural fiber.
There have been many types of research that have been conducted on the alpaca fiber, and all of them conclude the same: alpaca fiber is much warmer, lighter, and softer than synthetic ones. It is also much better than every other natural fiber, including merino, cashmere, and goose down.
Alpaca wool yarns provide a 50 degree F (20 °C) comfort range. That means it is 20 degrees warmer than most of the synthetics and 30 degrees warmer than sheep wool. Another benefit of alpaca is that the garments made of it are 30% lighter and 10% warmer than goose down. On top of that, it is “breathable” and keeps away moisture 85% more than sheep wool, and it is almost 3 times stronger than sheep wool.
Lately, the fashion industry, especially the outdoor departments, has seen an increased interest in providing customers with antimicrobial clothing products. This high demand has been addressed by fast fashion by creating garments treated with chemicals that stop bacterial growth.
This has led to many different ecological and fashion movements, demanding a cleaner and safer approach towards fashion. This is where the alpaca fiber steps in. It has antibacterial properties due to its keratin protein components, which makes them a more natural and durable alternative to chemical treatment. It is also an odor-resistant fiber, something that is very important today.
Alpacas need to be shorn each year. This is very important for their health and well-being. Cutting their fiber does not hurt them in any way. If the fiber is not cut, they are at risk of getting heatstrokes, skin diseases, and other problems that might appear. Each year, a single animal can produce 5 -10 pounds of usable fiber. Additionally, the way they eat is very caring and light on the environment. They trim the grass and do not pull it with its roots.
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Alpaca wool is one of the rare natural fibers naturally repels water. This amazing feature of the alpaca has kept the animals happy and healthy. It is also highly appreciated in the fashion industry. Besides water, the alpaca fiber excellently protects from wind. It is stain proof and believe it or not, fireproof.
Allergies and skin irritations that come from wearing different types of clothes are a common thing today, and that is because of their ingredients. That is why many people feel that they need to use synthetic materials. Alpaca fiber is naturally hypoallergenic because it does not include lanolin, which, for example, can be found in the sheep’s wool.
To provide all of you with the best possible product coming from this natural fiber, we at Silkeborg have a wide offer in the most luxurious items which will deliver to you the only feeling of the alpaca fiber. If you are looking to add some pieces to your home, choosing alpaca cushions in different colors will make your living space much more enjoyable. The feeling of alpaca fiber on your skin is truly irreplaceable.
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.
