What is alpaca clothing and what are its benefits?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Alpaca clothing is made from the incredibly versatile fleece of the alpaca, a free-roaming animal native to the Andes. Softer, warmer and more breathable than traditional wool, alpaca fiber brings together comfort and performance in one sustainable material.\n\nKey benefits of alpaca clothing:\n\n"}]},{"type":"list","listType":"unordered","children":[{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Thermoregulating: Keeps you warm in the cold and cool in the heat"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Breathable and moisture-wicking: Hollow fibers promote airflow and pull sweat away from skin"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Odor-resistant and antimicrobial: Stays fresh longer, even during active days"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Hypoallergenic: No lanolin = itch-free, even for sensitive skin"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Sustainable: Alpacas have a low environmental impact, and shearing is not harmful\n"}]}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"\nAt PAKA, we take these benefits further by using "},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.pakaapparel.com/pages/origin","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Traceable Alpaca™"}]},{"type":"text","value":" blended with plant-based and recycled performance fibers for added stretch and durability. Every piece is designed for movement, made ethically in Peru, and built for all-season comfort.\n\nLearn more in our Basecamp post: "},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.pakaapparel.com/blogs/basecamp/what-is-alpaca-wool","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Alpaca 101: What Is Alpaca Wool And Why Should You Wear It?"}]},{"type":"text","value":""}]}]}

Alpaca vs wool: What’s the difference?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"While both are natural, insulating fibers, alpaca outperforms sheep’s wool – even merino – in several key ways:\n\n"}]},{"type":"list","listType":"unordered","children":[{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Warmer: Hollow-core fibers trap more heat without bulk"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Lighter: Provides warmth without heaviness"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"More breathable: Air flows through each strand"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Better moisture resistance: Stays dry and odor-free longer"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Hypoallergenic: Lanolin-free and itch-free"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Stronger and more durable: Holds its shape and resists pilling"}]}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"\nCompared to merino, alpaca offers a better balance of comfort, performance, and longevity – making it the ideal choice for year-round wear.\n\nLearn more in our Basecamp post: "},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.pakaapparel.com/blogs/basecamp/alpaca-fiber-what-makes-it-different-from-wool","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Alpaca Fiber - What Makes It Different From Wool"}]},{"type":"text","value":""}]}]}

Alpaca vs cashmere: Which is better for clothing?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Cashmere may be known for softness, but alpaca is just as soft (often softer) while offering a wider performance range, especially for everyday wear:\n\n"}]},{"type":"list","listType":"unordered","children":[{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Warmer at the same weight"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Less prone to pilling and wear"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Better moisture control and odor resistance"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Lower environmental footprint when responsibly sourced\n\n"}]}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"While cashmere requires fiber from up to four goats to make a single sweater, one alpaca shearing can produce enough fleece for four to five sweaters – a more efficient, animal-friendly source.\n\nWith PAKA, you also get the added value of artisan-made construction and sustainable fiber blends designed to stretch, move and last."}]}]}

How do you wash and care for alpaca clothing?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"To keep your alpaca garments looking and feeling their best:\n\n"}]},{"type":"list","listType":"unordered","children":[{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Hand-wash in cold water using a gentle, wool-safe detergent"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Avoid twisting or wringing – gently press out excess water"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Lay flat to dry – never hang or use a tumble dryer\n\n"}]}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Alpaca clothing is also safe to dry clean, especially if you prefer professional care or need to refresh a delicate piece.\n\n"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Thanks to alpaca’s natural odor resistance and antimicrobial qualities, you can wear garments several times between washes – reducing laundry, preserving softness and saving energy.\n\n"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Read more in our full "},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.pakaapparel.com/pages/wash-and-care","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Wash & Care Guide"}]},{"type":"text","value":" and our Basecamp article: "},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.pakaapparel.com/blogs/basecamp/how-to-care-for-alpaca-fiber","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"How to Care for Alpaca Fiber"}]},{"type":"text","value":"."}]}]}

Is alpaca clothing ethical and cruelty-free?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Yes. Alpaca clothing is one of the most ethical, cruelty-free options available when sourced responsibly. At PAKA, we work with free-range alpaca herded by indigenous communities in the high Andes. These animals are shorn gently once a year, like a haircut, with no harm done.\n\nWe also work alongside a team of Quechua women artisans in Peru, who knit and sew each garment. This not only ensures fair wages and craft preservation, but also supports rural economies through long-term relationships and investment.\n\nLearn more: "},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.pakaapparel.com/blogs/basecamp/traceable-alpaca","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Our Journey to Full Traceability"}]},{"type":"text","value":""}]}]}

Is alpaca clothing sustainable?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Alpaca clothing is naturally sustainable. Alpacas have soft, padded feet that minimize land disruption and require significantly less water and food than sheep or goats. Their fleece grows annually, so it’s a renewable fiber – and it doesn’t contain lanolin, which requires harsh chemicals to process in traditional wool."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"\nPAKA takes sustainability further with its fully Traceable Alpaca™, natural-fiber blends and plastic-free packaging – creating apparel that’s high-performance yet low-impact."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"\nLearn more in our Basecamp post: "},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.pakaapparel.com/blogs/basecamp/is-alpaca-fiber-sustainable","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Is Alpaca Fiber Sustainable? The Future Of Eco-Friendly Fashion"}]},{"type":"text","value":""}]}]}

Is alpaca clothing breathable and moisture-wicking?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Yes, that’s what makes it so versatile. Alpaca fiber is"},{"type":"text","value":" ","bold":true},{"type":"text","value":"hollow, which allows air to circulate through the fiber itself, unlike most wools that retain heat through density. This natural breathability helps regulate your body temperature and makes alpaca clothing ideal for travel, layering or outdoor activities.\n\nAlpaca fiber is also moisture-wicking, pulling sweat away and drying quickly. So whether you're hiking, commuting, or lounging, it keeps you dry and comfortable."}]}]}

Does alpaca clothing resist odor?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"It does. Alpaca fiber has natural antimicrobial properties, meaning it resists the bacteria that cause odors. Combined with its excellent breathability and moisture control, your alpaca clothes stay fresh longer between washes. That’s a huge plus for travel, exercise or reducing laundry loads."}]}]}

Is alpaca clothing hypoallergenic?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Yes. Unlike sheep’s wool, alpaca fiber is lanolin-free, which makes it naturally hypoallergenic. This is great news for people with wool sensitivities or sensitive skin, since alpaca clothing doesn’t itch or irritate like traditional wool can.\n\nPAKA uses only fine-micron Royal and Baby Alpaca for all next-to-skin garments, making them incredibly soft and wearable all day long."}]}]}

Is alpaca clothing itchy?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Not when it’s made with premium materials and careful design. Alpaca fiber is lanolin-free, making it naturally hypoallergenic and a gentler option for sensitive skin. Unlike traditional wool, it won’t trigger the same itch or irritation."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"\nAt PAKA, we use only fine-micron Royal and Baby Alpaca, selected for its silky softness and smooth feel. When paired with our performance blends and artisan-made knits, the result is next-to-skin comfort that’s breathable, lightweight and never scratchy."}]}]}

Is alpaca clothing worth it?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Definitely. Alpaca clothes last longer, stay fresher and feel better season after season. They don’t pill, don’t itch, and don’t need frequent washing, so they outlast cheaper alternatives in both form and function."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"\nEach PAKA piece is a long-term investment in comfort, performance and sustainability – made with care from the source to your closet.\n"}]}]}

Three people posing for a photo in a snowy landscape

Three people posing together in a snowy landscape

Unisex alpaca wool clothing

Alpaca for all

Explore with functional alpaca clothing, sourced and made in Peru to thrive in any climate.

Best Sellers

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Alpaca Sweaters & Hoodies

The Hoodie Charcoal / Dark Grey Stylish Alpaca Wool Hoodie Sweater – PAKA Apparel

Man in The Hoodie Charcoal / Dark Grey Alpaca Natural Fiber Hoodie Sweater Feeding an Alpaca in Peru Mountains – PAKA Apparel

The Hoodie Light Grey Sustainable Alpaca Wool Sweater Hoodie – PAKA Apparel

Meditative Man with Eyes Closed Wearing The Hoodie Light Grey Sustainable Knit Hoodie Sweater in Chinchero, Peru – PAKA Apparel

The Hoodie Navy Blue Natural Fiber Lightweight Alpaca Hoodie Sweater – PAKA Apparel

Woman Hiker with Pack in Mountains Wearing Navy Blue Alpaca Hiking Hoodie – PAKA Apparel

Close-up of PAKA's Burgundy Hoodie with the Inca ID worn by a person outdoors

The Hoodie Oat / Light Tan Grey Sustainable Peruvian Alpaca Wool Hoodie Sweater – PAKA Apparel

Peru Sourcing Tag on The Hoode Oat / Light Tan Grey Knit Pullover Sweater Hoodie – PAKA Apparel

The Hoodie Flint / Light Brown Alpaca Hoodie Sweater from Peru – PAKA Apparel

TOP PICK

Why you'll love this

Extra cozy, soft, and durable
Flexible knitting on both sides + hood
Natural comfort in all climates
Our unisex best-seller

The Hoodie

$149

Sky Blue Crewneck Alpaca Wool Sweater from Peru - PAKA The Original Crew

Woman in Sky Blue Crewneck Alpaca Wool Outdoor Sweater in Front of Fall Foliage - PAKA The Original Crew

Navy Blue Lightweight Alpaca Wool Crewneck Sweater from Peru – PAKA The Original Crew

Woman wearing the original crew in the mountains

Charcoal / Dark Grey Crewneck Ethical Alpaca Wool Sweater - PAKA The Original Crew

Closeup Side Shot of Charcoal / Grey Peruvian Alpaca Wool Sweater on Woman Wearing Ring – PAKA The Original Crew

Grey Crewneck Natural Alpaca Wool Sweater - PAKA The Original Crew

Man's Hands Pulling at Waist of The Original Crew Alpaca Crewneck Sweater in Light Grey – PAKA Apparel

Brown long-sleeve shirt on a white background

The Original Crew Flint / Light Brown Alpaca Sweater from Peru – PAKA Apparel

TOP PICK

Why you'll love this

Softer than cashmere
Natural OEKO-TEX certified dye
Hand-signed by woman who knit it
Raglan sleeves for full range of motion

The Original Crew

$149

Charcoal Blue Ultralight Crewneck Alpaca Blend Sweater for Outdoors and Casual - PAKA Apparel

Woman wearing the Lightweight crew in blue

Black Ultralight Crewneck Peruvian Alpaca Blend Sweater - PAKA Apparel

Female model wearing Black Ultralight Crewneck

Light Grey Ultralight Crewneck Alpaca Wool Sweater from Peru - PAKA Apparel

Light Grey Ultralight Crewneck Sustainable Alpaca Sweater on Man with Hand Raised Behind Neck - PAKA Apparel

Timber / Tan Ultralight Crewneck Natural Fiber Alpaca Sweater - PAKA Apparel

Woman Smiling in Timber / Tan Ultralight Crewneck Alpaca Wool Sweater - PAKA Apparel

TOP PICK

Why you'll love this

Unique hand-woven Inca ID
Extremely breathable & odor-resistant
Gusseted armpit with added mobility
Flatlock seams for added stability

The Lightweight Crew

$145

The Vida Alpaca Wool Hoodie Sweater for Hiking and Casual - PAKA Apparel

The Vida Natural Fiber Alpaca Hoodie Sweater on man - PAKA Apparel

Why you'll love this

Three-panel hoodie
Slight open v-neck
Unique tricolor knit

The Vida

$135

The Costa Grey Alpaca Merino Wool Blend Crew Sweater for Hiking, Skiing and Casual – PAKA Apparel

Woman with Arms Cozily Wrapped in The Costa Gray Peruvian Alpaca Merino Wool Blend Crew Sweater – PAKA Apparel

Why you'll love this

Inca alpaca design on left sleeve
Durable, lightweight, extra warm
Raglan sleeves for full range of motion

The Costa

$135

The Cusco Burgundy / Dark Red Peruvian Alpaca Sweater with Inca Alpaca Design on Side – PAKA Apparel

Close Up of Inca Alpaca Side Panel Design in Front of Fire on The Cusco Burgundy / Dark Red Alpaca Wool Sweater from Peru – PAKA Apparel

The Cusco Timber / Light Grey Sustainable Alpaca Sweater from Peru – PAKA Apparel

Women Smiling While Hiking with Poles in The Cusco Timber / Tan Natural Alpaca Hiking Sweater from Peru – PAKA Apparel

Why you'll love this

Inca alpaca design on left side panel
Durable, lightweight, extra warm
Natural OEKO-TEX certified dye
Hand-signed by woman who knit it

The Cusco

$135

All-Season Alpaca Shirts

NEW IN

Why you'll love this

PAKA Sunset Long Sleeve T-Shirt

$55

Lavender alpaca base layer on male and female model

SPECIAL OFFER

Why you'll love this

Softest long sleeve you’ll ever own
Sebastian's paw prints walking down the right arm
Graphic inspired by cacti in the Sacred Valley of Peru and the "Apu" mountain spirits. A daily reminder to embrace the endless circularity of this world we share together