Material

Finest quality natural materials

We always use only the finest natural materials in our products. Alpacas live in high altitudes in the Andean Mountains and their wool is one of the finest natural fibres in the world. Alpaca wool has wonderful qualities compared to other fibres and because of that it is the core material of our products.

Alpaca fibre is smooth and has a beautiful natural sheen. The material is stain repellent and therefore the products are really easy to take care of. Alpaca wool does not need regular washing: Just hang the garment outside every now and then to freshen it up.

We only use natural materials in our products – typically 100 % alpaca wool. Reuse and recycling of products is easier when fewer different fibres are used in the product. This is also one of the reasons why our products do not contain materials such as polyester or acrylic as they would complicate the recycling process. Alpaca wool is durable and lasts time and wear.

The responsible alternative

Alpacas living in Peru typically graze freely. In Peru, Alpacas are treated with respect as they are culturally and historically important animal for the local people. There are only approximately 6 million alpacas in the world and around 4 million of them live in the Peruvian highlands. Even though alpaca wool has great and exceptional qualities it is really rare material.

Compared to sheep and goats alpaca is kinder to the environment. Alpaca belongs to camelids family and has soft feet instead of hard hooves. Therefore, grazing alpacas do not cause soil erosion. Alpacas are also gentle with plants as they do not eat roots.

Alpaca wool is always mulesing free.

We have worked with our Peruvian partner since 2012, the year Alpa was founded. Our partner has specialised in alpaca wool and knows the best and sustainable practices. Our partner has their own farm where small amount of alpaca wool is gathered. Most of the alpaca wool comes from local small and medium sized farmers across the Andes. All the alpaca wool used in our products come from these smaller local farmers. 

Tracking the origin of alpaca wool in Peru has taken big steps ahead in recent years. Our partner has launched a service in which we as customers can track the origin of the alpaca wool we use in our products. The service allows us to see which region the alpaca wool is originated from and some of the wool can be tracked down to the farmer.