ALPACAS

The Noble Alpaca: A Heritage of Sustainable Luxury Alpacas are among the most beautiful South American camelids. Closely related to llamas, guanacos, and vicuñas, they have been treasured for their exquisite fleece since pre-Inca times. Today, they represent the pinnacle of sustainable luxury. There are two main types of alpacas: Huacaya and Suri.

The Alpaca’s Habitat. Native to the Peruvian Andes, alpacas have been peacefully domesticated for millennia. Of the estimated 3.5 to 4 million alpacas in South America, 90% roam freely in the southern regions of Peru. Living at breathtaking altitudes of 3,500 to over 4,500 metres above sea level, alpacas gracefully endure dramatic temperature shifts—from freezing -20°C nights to 30°C days. They survive on a natural, low-protein diet of native Andean grasses, leaving a minimal footprint on their pristine environment.

Why Alpaca is the Ethical Alternative to Cashmere. For the conscious British consumer, alpaca offers a genuinely sustainable and cruelty-free alternative to cashmere. While the global demand for cashmere has led to severe overgrazing and desertification in parts of Asia, alpacas are naturally gentle on the earth:

• Gentle Grazers: Unlike cashmere goats, which pull plants up by the roots, alpacas gently snip the tops of grasses, allowing the vegetation to continually regenerate and preventing soil erosion.

• Soft Paws, No Hooves: Alpacas have soft, padded feet rather than sharp hooves, meaning they do not trample or destroy the delicate mountain terrain they roam on.

• High Yield, Low Impact: Alpacas are incredibly efficient grazers, requiring significantly less water and food than goats or sheep, making their fleece one of the most eco-friendly luxury fibres in the world.

The Alpaca Fibre: Perfect for the British Climate Alpaca fibre is revered across the global textile market, and its unique attributes make it particularly perfect for UK weather—be it a brisk countryside walk or a cosy evening indoors:

• Supreme Warmth: It is three times stronger than sheep's wool and up to seven times warmer.

• Smart Insulation: Microscopic air pockets within the fibre provide exceptional thermal insulation. It traps heat in the winter while remaining highly breathable during milder days.

• Feather-light: Despite its warmth, the fibre is incredibly lightweight, ranging from 12 to 28 microns.

• Weather Resistant: It naturally repels water and does not retain moisture, keeping you comfortable even in damp, unpredictable weather.

• Hypoallergenic: Completely free of lanolin, oil, and grease, making it the perfect choice for sensitive skin.

• Natural Radiance: It boasts a natural, silky sheen that remains vibrant through production, washing, and years of wear.

• Eco-Friendly Care: Its durability and self-cleaning properties mean garments require less frequent washing, promoting a true slow-living lifestyle.

• Naturally Colourful: Available in over 22 stunning natural shades, greatly reducing the need for artificial dyes.

Why Peruvian Alpaca Fibre? At Inka Fabric, we believe the qualities of authentic Peruvian alpaca are simply unmatched. Because our alpacas live freely in their natural Andean habitat at high altitudes, their fibre grows stronger and retains all the unique properties that make it so special. Alpaca farming in Peru is a beautiful tradition passed down through generations. The animals are deeply prized and are never harmed for their fleece. Today, the livelihoods of many highland families depend on this ethical trade. By partnering with responsible producers, Peru has become the worldwide specialist in alpaca fibre, and we are proud to bring this world-class, high-quality yarn directly to you.

What Is Baby Alpaca Fibre? Baby Alpaca is an exceptionally fine, incredibly soft, and lightweight grade of fibre (typically 21.5 microns). It comes primarily from the back of the alpaca—the area least exposed to dirt and brush. Importantly, "Baby Alpaca" does not mean the fleece comes from newborn animals—the young need their coats to stay warm! Rather, it is the industry term for the finest, softest shear. Alpacas are gently and ethically shorn by hand just once a year during the warmer season. Working as a natural thermal insulator, Baby Alpaca is the ultimate luxury. It is wonderfully cosy yet breathable, offering unmatched comfort that you will cherish for a lifetime.