When people think of luxurious, warm textiles, wool is often the first word that comes to mind. However, while alpaca fleece shares many of wool’s desirable qualities—softness, warmth, and durability—it is not technically classified as wool. Instead, alpaca fibre is considered a fleece or hair, setting it apart from traditional sheep’s wool in structure, composition, and performance.
What Defines Wool?
Wool is a term specifically used for the fibre obtained from sheep and certain other animals like goats (cashmere and mohair), rabbits (angora), and musk oxen (qiviut). Wool fibres have scales along their shaft, which contribute to their ability to felt and retain warmth. Additionally, wool contains lanolin, a natural grease that helps protect the fibre but can cause irritation for some wearers.
Why Alpaca Fibre Is Different
Alpaca fibre, on the other hand, is classified as a hair rather than wool due to its unique structure and properties:
- No Lanolin: Unlike sheep’s wool, alpaca fleece is naturally hypoallergenic because it lacks lanolin, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
- Smooth Fibre Structure: Alpaca fibres have a smoother surface with fewer scales, reducing itchiness and making garments feel softer against the skin.
- Hollow Core for Superior Insulation: Alpaca fibres are partially hollow, allowing them to trap heat more efficiently than wool, making them warmer yet lighter.
- Water-Repellent & Moisture-Wicking: Alpaca fleece naturally repels water while wicking away moisture, keeping wearers dry and comfortable.
The Terminology: Fleece vs. Wool
Because of these differences, alpaca fibre is often referred to as fleece rather than wool. The term “fleece” applies to the soft, fine fibres shorn from alpacas, while “wool” remains specific to sheep and other wool-producing animals.
Why This Matters for Sustainability & Comfort
Understanding the distinction between alpaca fleece and wool is more than just semantics—it highlights the superior qualities of alpaca fibre in terms of sustainability, comfort, and ethical production.
- Eco-Friendly Farming: Alpacas are gentle grazers, unlike sheep, which can contribute to overgrazing and land degradation.
- Durability & Longevity: Alpaca garments last longer, resist pilling, and maintain their softness over time.
- Ethical & Sustainable Choice: With its low environmental impact and natural hypoallergenic properties, alpaca fleece is a conscious alternative to traditional wool.
While alpaca fleece may resemble wool in warmth and texture, its unique fibre structure, lack of lanolin, and superior insulation make it a distinct and luxurious alternative. Choosing Alpaca Apparel means embracing comfort, sustainability, and ethical craftsmanship—all without the drawbacks of traditional wool.