Fabric Definition:
Alpaca fiber is a soft, durable, and luxurious natural protein fiber obtained from the fleece of the Alpaca, renowned for its exceptional silk-like luster (in Suri), thermal insulation, and hypoallergenic properties, free from lanolin.
Composition:
100% Keratin (Protein) – hollow core, completely lanolin-free. Huacaya has crimp, Suri has long, silky locks.
Texture:
Silky smooth, soft, and less prickly than wool; Huacaya has a spongy, crimped texture; Suri has a long, silky, lustrous drape
Stretch Level:
Low (Natural crimp provides some elasticity; requires synthetic blends for significant stretch)
Fabric Construction:
Woven (e.g., Gabardine, Suiting) or Knitted (e.g., Jersey, Rib, Pointelle)
GSM Range:
150-600 GSM (Lightweight for wraps, dense for heavy coats and blankets)
Breathability:
Excellent – Highly breathable with superior thermal regulation, keeping warm in winter and cool in transitional weather
Moisture Management:
Excellent – Hollow fibers absorb and wick moisture efficiently, faster drying than sheep wool
Durability:
High – Exceptionally strong and durable for a fine fiber; resists pilling and matting
Thermal Properties:
Outstanding – Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio; superior insulation due to hollow core, warmer than wool at the same weight
Key Usage Areas:
Premium Sweaters, Coats, Suiting, Shawls, Ponchos, Wraps, Blankets, Throws, Socks, Gloves, Hats, Babies’ Apparel
High-end hospitality throws, luxury automotive textiles, premium cruise ship upholstery, military dress uniforms