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Alpaca

Alpaca fiber comes from the alpaca, an animal native to the Andes mountains of South America. It is prized for its exceptional softness, warmth, and hypoallergenic properties.

Where it comes from

Alpacas are raised primarily in Peru, Bolivia, and Chile at high altitudes. Peruvian alpaca fiber, particularly from the Huacaya breed, is considered among the finest.

Properties

Hypoallergenic
Alpaca fiber contains no lanolin — the protein in wool that causes reactions in some people — making it suitable for most sensitive skin.
Warmer than wool
Alpaca fiber has a hollow core that traps air, providing more insulation per weight than sheep's wool.
Soft
Fine alpaca fiber is comparable in softness to cashmere and can be worn against the skin.
Durable
Alpaca fiber is stronger than sheep's wool and resistant to pilling.

Microplastics

Alpaca is a natural protein fiber. It does not shed synthetic microplastics and biodegrades at end of life.

Certifications to look for

OEKO-TEX Standard 100

Alpaca brands in the directory

Every brand below has been verified to use natural fibers as their primary material.

Alex Crane
USA

Travel-focused casual clothing made from linen, organic cotton, merino, and alpaca.

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Alicia Adams Alpaca
USA

Luxury alpaca and vicuña knitwear for men and women, ethically sourced from Peru.

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Alpaca Collections
USA

Alpaca and vicuña knitwear for men and women across a range of price points.

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Alpaca Warehouse
USA

Value-priced alpaca basics and knitwear for men and women.

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Campo Alpaca
Peru

Peruvian alpaca knitwear for men and women.

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Cuyana
USA

Women's premium basics in Pima cotton, alpaca, cashmere, and silk on a fewer-better-things philosophy.

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Humphrey Law
Australia

Australian socks in wool, cotton, and alpaca for men and women.

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Incalpaca
Peru

Peruvian luxury alpaca and vicuña knitwear for men and women.

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Knotty Ones
USA

Fair Trade knitwear in cotton, linen, alpaca, and merino for women.

Fair Trade
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KUNA
Peru

Peruvian alpaca knitwear brand with retail stores and online sales for men and women.

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L'Envers
France

French sustainable knitwear brand making merino, alpaca, and organic cotton sweaters, cardigans, and vests for everyday wear.

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L'Envers
France

French premium knitwear in organic cotton, merino, mohair, alpaca, and yak for men and women.

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