Dispelling 10 Common Myths About Peruvian Alpaca

Those of you who are following the fashion and the topic of sustainability know about the benefits and the properties of alpaca wool. The alpaca wool is not something new. It has been present on the market for a long time in different items such as alpaca scarves, throws, and blankets. However, it was not in the focus because fast fashion was simply taking over the market, not leaving place for anything else.

Although, those who were sustainable and organically oriented from the start, know that the alpaca wool is one of the best wool on the market. And with the rising pollution in the world that comes a great deal from the fashion industry, the alpaca wool is making the change towards a better and more sustainable future. 

The alpaca wool comes from the alpaca animal. It is also known as the Peruvian Alpaca. These alpacas are born and bred in Peru. With that, as a country, Peru has become known and popular as the synonym of fiber. As such, the local communities and farms that breed alpacas are helping the country’s economy.

And not only that, they are promoting the country overall in the world, as the place where the alpacas are born. Another important thing to mention is that studying and exploring alpaca wool benefits leads to raising awareness towards the country, the environment, and the preservation of the planet too.

Although many facts are pretty well-known when it comes to alpacas, there are still some myths about the Peruvian Alpaca. Here, we break the top 10 myths.

Myth no. 1 – Alpaca is too rustic 

At first hearing, many think that the alpaca wool is too rustic. Some would even say that it is not modern at all and that in fact, does not carry even a niche of innovation. The fact for that matter is that the Peruvian alpaca is a modern industry.

It caters to all the niches, from farms to the manufacturing of the fiber. For all that to take place, there is extensive research, knowledge, development, etc. When it comes to alpacas, all are  connected to their breeding techniques.

Myth no. 2 – Alpaca wool is itchy 

People are resilient to wool. This mainly comes because of the feeling that the wool has on the skin. The majority of wool is itchy and irritating on the skin. But, that is not the case with the alpaca wool. It has such great qualities of the fiber, that are connected to the thickness of the fiber, making the alpaca wool the number one wool that is itch-free.

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Myth no. 3 – Alpaca wool causes allergies 

Another popular myth connected to the properties of alpaca wool is that it can cause allergies. That is simply not possible since the fiber of the alpaca is hypoallergenic. It does not contain lanolin or oil.

Myth no. 4 – Alpaca wool is not fashionable 

From a fashion point of view, the myth is that the Peruvian alpaca wool does impose too many fashion limits when it comes to prints and colors. But, this is just a myth since the alpaca itself is very adaptable. As it grows, it provides an array of wool designs. And it also comes in several different colors.

Myth no. 5 – Alpaca is heavy and good only for winter 

Alpaca wool is very light and provides a great feeling on the skin. One of its many properties is that it is insulating. That means that it is not only great for keeping the body warm in the winter, but it also cools off during the summer.

Myth no. 6 – Alpaca is harmed during the shearing process 

As an animal, the Peruvian alpaca is celebrated as a holy animal. That way, shearing it will be considered as harming the animal, which is not the case. It is a totally painless and quick process, also needed for the better health of the alpaca itself.

Myth no. 7 – Alpaca wool industry is not a socially responsible one 

Just on the contrary, all the alpaca wool production and manufacturing processes are totally sustainable and socially responsible, starting from the breeding of the animal to the last point of shipment of the alpaca wool garments.

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Myth no. 8 – Alpaca wool is too expensive 

Although the alpaca wool comes in different price points, it is less expensive than the premium cashmere.

Myth no. 9 – Alpaca wool is not luxury wool 

The high quality of the fiber of the Peruvian alpaca makes the alpaca wool luxurious.

Myth no.10 – Alpaca industry is too small 

With Peru being home to almost 80% of the global population and production of Alpaca wool, it is safe to say that it certainly is not a small industry.

At Silkeborg Uldspinderi you will find a varied offer of high-quality alpaca wool accessories and garments. If you want to buy any alpaca scarves, shawls, cushions, or throws, please don’t hesitate to contact us through our contact page.