Many people make the mistake of thinking that wool is just wool and that every wool is the same. But, that is not the case. Even between the same tribe in the past, in the same societies in modern-day living, and even in the fashion industry itself, there are differences when it comes to alpaca wool shawls, scarves, throws, etc. These differences are unique and interesting to explore, and that is why each wool comes with a different price.
The two most interesting types of wool are merino wool and alpaca wool. The first and the most important distinction between these two types of wool is their origin. Namely, merino wool comes from a specific breed of sheep, while the alpaca wool comes from a camel-like animal that is called alpaca. This is the first big difference between these two types of wool, but what they have in common is that both of them keep the body nice and warm.
As mentioned above, the merino soft fiber comes from the special breed of sheep called Merino. This sheep breed is most commonly found in Australia and New Zealand. It is finer and thinner than the average wool, which is what makes it feel softer, less itchy, and more flexible. It is also cool, breathable, and moisture-wicking. These properties make merino wool a good base layer for activities such as hiking or exercise.
Just like the other types of wool, merino wool also has several different categories. What is important to know about merino wool is that the larger the diameter of the wool fiber, the coarser and itchier the wool be. There are some wool fibers that can be 25 microns in diameter and human hair for example is 50-100 microns thick.
So, the merino wool fibers come around 24 microns in diameter or even smaller. The fine merino fiber is 19.5 microns, and the ultra-fine merino is less than 15.
Alpaca wool comes from the alpaca’s fur. It is strong, warm, silky to the touch, and most importantly, durable. The wool’s excellent properties come from the living conditions of the alpaca itself, which are harsh winters and very hot summers. The alpacas are usually bred in South America.
The biggest and unique property that the alpaca wool provides, and no other wool for that matter, is that it is hypoallergenic. The size of the fiber is similar to merino’s, which additionally makes it a great fashion choice and luxury fabric.
You can also read: Is alpaca wool better than cashmere?
One big and most noticeable difference between the merino and the alpaca wool is that the alpaca fibers are hollow and the merinos’ are not. This is the difference that allows the alpaca wool to repel water and retain heat. From that comes another difference which makes the alpaca wool warmer than the merino wool. The cold air has a hard time getting through the alpaca wool fibers.
Another difference that puts alpaca in front of merino is that merino attracts odors. Over time and different means, merino wool will attract different odors. That is why the garments from merino wool can smell like a brewery or just have a perspiration odor, which is not the case with alpaca wool. Alpaca wool resists all the bad-smelling liquids and remains fresh for a longer time. It also does not wrinkle, which is another added benefit.
With so many great benefits and properties, the alpaca wool has come on top of the list of all the other wool types. The demand for alpaca wool has also increased largely, due to the limited time and supply of alpaca fur, which is directly connected to the once-a-year shearing. Additionally, alpaca wool is considered to be sustainable wool. It comes in several different colors that save it from chemical dying.
The fashion and the textile industry favor the alpaca wool, not only because of the properties it provides but for the final product that comes from this wonderful feel. Silkeborg Uldspinderi specializes only in true and unique alpaca wool, and with that, the best possible alpaca wool blankets and alpaca wool throws. Whether it is for the summertime or the wintertime, the blankets and the throws are necessary accessories to any home.
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.
