Alpaca vs. Cashmere

Both fibres are known for being a luxurious yarn, but which is better?

At the top of list of qualities is:    Which is softer?

Both are soft, but the softest is hard to say. Wool fibre is measured in microns and the smaller the micron, then the fibre is deemed softer and finer. Alpaca wool is around 18 to 23 microns and cashmere is around 19 micron giving cashmere the slight lead in being more consistent, however alpaca can be as soft if not softer than cashmere.

Cashmere’s high status began to change in the 1990s when the demand for cashmere wool rapidly grew, leading to mass production. As China produced in volume, the fibre’s status eventually devalued, shifting from luxury to mainstream. In effect, prices and quality have lowered over the years. Mass production has led breeders to crossbreed, resulting in goats producing more wool, but the fibre is shorter and not as refined.

Some manufacturers will even mix cashmere fibre with synthetic yarns to increase its softness for a lower price. Therefore, not all cashmere is created equal. You really must be meticulous when it comes to checking for quality. There is an artisanal element in the production of an alpaca cardigan or seater. Knitting and weaving this extraordinary fibre has been a time-honoured craft that has become part of Peru’s cultural heritage.

And to further preserve this Peruvian tradition that provides income to thousands of families, companies work directly with local breeders to not only ensure quality but to also provide these artisans with a great opportunity to secure a sustainable future.