ALPACA VS. MERINO WOOL

-

In this entry, we will compare in detail two natural fibers - Merino wool and Alpaca, which are often confused with each other due to their similar properties. Since it is very difficult to find the differences between these two fibers with the naked eye, we will present their properties, i.e. what cannot be seen but is hidden inside.

Alpaca and Merino are real players in the world of yarns. Without a doubt, they are among the most luxurious yarns that have taken the world by storm. They are known in the textile and clothing industry for their exceptional softness and delicate structure. While Merino wool has relatively recently become a high-end commodity, alpaca fiber has been ruling the world of luxury clothing for years; it is the embodiment of old-school elegance, is soft to the touch, softer and stronger than cashmere, and definitely lighter than sheep wool.

Before we get into the differences between these two fibers, let's look at the similarities. The first common feature is, of course, the natural origin of both of these fibers and their completely biodegradable nature. Another important issue that alpaca and merino fibers have in common is their unique "breathability", resistance to UV rays and thermoregulation, thanks to which products made of both of these fibers will cool us on hot days and pleasantly warm us on a cold day. Another, equally important common feature is odorlessness as well as resistance to unpleasant odors that often accumulate when wearing synthetic clothing after greater or longer exertion.

Alpaca and merino fiber have several similar properties based on which we could conclude that they are equally good. Well, nothing could be further from the truth. So what are the differences between them? Below we will present the most important of them, i.e. softness, hypoallergenicity, durability, warmth, water absorption and dirt resistance.

The photo below shows alpaca and merino fiber examined under a microscope. Only at such a high magnification can we see how different their external structure is. Both of these fibers show the so-called scales, but in the case of Alpaca they are much smaller compared to merino wool, which in turn makes alpaca more pleasant to the touch. The smoother the fiber, the greater the feeling of comfort when it comes into contact with human skin, which is why Merino fibers are more itchy and irritating. This is an important issue, especially for people who are susceptible to allergic reactions. While on the topic of allergies, it is worth emphasizing that alpaca fiber is naturally free of lanolin - animal wax, which is also responsible for allergic reactions. Unfortunately, lanolin is found in sheep wool, including Merino, so it is not recommended for people with these types of problems. Currently, attempts are being made to remove lanolin from merino wool using various chemical procedures, making it safe for allergy sufferers. However, this affects both the environment and the natural values ​​of the fiber itself.

Analyzes carried out so far have confirmed that alpaca fibers have a higher tensile strength than merino, which means they can withstand more pressure or stress before breaking. Research indicates that alpaca fiber has a tensile strength of up to 50N/ktex, which allows the creation of clothing that is resistant to intense wear. However, Merino fiber withstands pressure up to 30-40 N/ktex.

We mentioned earlier that both Alpaca and Merino have great abilities to wick moisture away from the skin when you sweat. Both effectively absorb moisture and transfer it to the outside of the clothing. This basic feature prevents unpleasant odor and increases the comfort of the wearer. What about keeping warm? Alpaca fibers have a unique physical structure, characterized by air pockets. These voids trap air, which in turn increases the thermal properties of the fiber and provides the user with a better feeling of warmth. This semi-hollow structure makes alpaca fibers extremely light, offering greater warmth per weight than merino wool of similar fiber size. Bred mainly in the cold climate of the Andes, the alpaca is adapted by nature to survive frosty climates.

Alpaca fibers are considered to be extremely waterproof and at the same time highly breathable. This is because their water absorption is only about 10% of their weight, while in the case of merino wool it is about 30%. This means that Alpaca dries faster and insulates better than Merino when wet. Moreover, the lack of lanolin in the case of alpaca fiber makes it more resistant to dirt, and if it does get dirty, the cleaning process is much easier than in the case of Merino wool.

The table below shows the most important similarities and differences between alpaca and merino fiber. Without a doubt, it can be said that alpaca fiber is superior to merino in many respects, making it a more luxurious and desirable fiber. This premium fiber is known for its specific molecular composition, combining the benefits of merino wool and cashmere, giving a fine texture that is desirable for its softness, providing excellent warmth, moisture-wicking breathability and a naturally hypoallergenic composition. Natural alpaca fiber provides an ultra-luxurious feel and a subtle texture that's hard to beat.

Additionally, Alpaca is our ecological friend. This very delicate fiber is never processed under the harsh chemical treatments and synthetic processes that Merino wool requires to be soft and comfortable. Merino wool often needs to be blended with other synthetic fibers, such as nylon, to both increase its luxury and, on the other hand, increase microplastic pollution in the environment.

When comparing Merino and Alpaca fibers, we focused primarily on their properties and what is hidden inside them. Now, however, we will take a closer look at alpaca yarn and discover its unique features.

Alpaca produces wool that is extremely delicate and soft. For centuries, it has been valued by the indigenous people of South America, especially Peru. Alpaca wool provides warmth, is light, soft and has many properties that make it more and more popular throughout the fashion world. Alpaca yarn, especially that labeled "baby alpaca", is one of the most luxurious fibers available on the market.

When we talk about 100% alpaca, we mean pure, unmixed alpaca yarn, without any synthetic additives. "Baby alpaca" yarn refers to the thinnest fibers obtained from alpacas, which are particularly soft, delicate and pleasant to the touch.

There are two main types of alpacas: Suri and Huacaya, which produce different types of fibers.

Suri alpaca wool is known for its long, silky strands that give it an extraordinary shine. It is perfect for the production of luxury products such as coats, jackets and sweaters.

In turn, huacaya alpaca wool is fluffier and denser, thanks to which huacaya has insulating properties that are more pronounced than in the case of suri. Huacaya alpaca fiber is also more resilient and flexible. Moreover, it is easier to adapt and more universal.

Alpaca clothing, such as alpaca coats and sweaters, are not only stylish, but also functional. Alpaca is suitable for weaving extremely warm and at the same time light clothes. Alpaca yarn is also popularly used in the production of scarves and hats and other accessories. In addition, alpaca wool is often used as a filling for bedding, providing exceptional thermal comfort and breathability. Bedding with alpaca wool filling are valued for their ability to thermoregulate, which makes them ideal for both cold and warmer nights.

Alpaca fiber is valued for its natural hypoallergenic properties. Therefore, alpaca clothing, and above all 100% "baby alpaca", is an excellent choice for people with sensitive skin. Unlike other fibers, hypoallergenic alpaca wool does not cause irritation.

Caring for alpaca clothing is slightly different from caring for merino wool products. Washing alpaca clothing requires a gentle detergent and hand washing in cool water. Avoid twisting and wringing, which may damage the delicate fibers. Merino fiber clothing, on the other hand, often requires extra attention due to the mixture of wool and other materials.

In conclusion, both alpaca and merino have a lot to offer in the world of textiles. However, alpaca clothing is of much higher quality, which is why it is gaining popularity