The cashmere knit is high quality – but here are 10 reasons to choose alpaca
Kashmir knitwear is a symbol of quality and luxury for many when it comes to knitwear.Its softness and lightness make it a popular choice for cold days and cool evenings. But did you know that there is an alternative that offers the same – or even more – and in a more ecological and responsible way? (Finnish's Most Responsible Product Finalist - 2025)
Alpaca knits have become an even more popular alternative to cashmere, and we make them from the best possible material:Alpaca Royal quality. It is the finest and rarest fiber of alpaca wool –softer, lighter, and more luxurious than most cashmere qualities, and significantly more durable than regular alpaca, which is already extremely high quality.
In this article, we explain why more and more people are choosing the Alpaca Royal sweater instead of the cashmere sweater. Here are 10 reasons:
Softness that exceeds expectations
Alpaca, especially Alpaca Royal, is incredibly soft. Its fiber diameter is only 18–19 microns – on the same level as fine cashmere. Not everyone can feel the difference in texture, but many find alpaca's softness more pleasant. If you love the feel of a cashmere knit,you will fall in love with Alpaca Royal.
2.Warmer than a cashmere sweater
The hollow fiber structure of alpaca makes it an excellent insulator. It effectively retains body heat and keeps the chill away. Alpaca is estimated to be even7 times warmer than sheep's wool, and it often surpasses even cashmere in warmth – without the thickness or weight.
3.Perfect also for sensitive skin
Alpaca wool does not contain lanolin, so it isnaturally hypoallergenic. This makes it a perfect choice for people with sensitive skin or wool allergies. The soft, smooth surface does not itch or irritate, but feels pleasant directly against the skin.
4.Durable and pill-resistant
Kashmir knitwear's big challenge is its fragility – it pills easily and requires gentle handling. Alpaca Royal knitwear, on the other handretain their shape and surfaceyear after year. A knit that still looks good even after years is true sustainable luxury.
5.More ecological choice for nature
Alpacas are naturally more ecological animals than goats: they consume less water, do not uproot plants when feeding, and require less food than cashmere goats. This means that raising alpacas leaves a significantly smaller carbon footprint. By choosing alpaca, you support more responsible production.
6.Less chemicals in production
Alpaca fiber is smooth and naturally shiny. Its processing requires less chemical washing and treatment than cashmere or sheep's wool. This means a cleaner option for both the environment and your skin.
7.Natural range of colors
Alpaca naturally comes in over 20 different colors – from white to black and various shades of gray. This reduces the need for dyeing and makes each knit unique. Cashmere is almost always dyed – with alpaca, you can choose from nature's own shades. Practically, this does not mean that you can choose from 20 different color shades at Ruukki Spinning Mill, but that each Alpaca Royal knit is unique. You won't be able to buy a 100% identical colored knit this year and again next year. Because we do not use any dyes, each knit is genuinely one of a kind.
8.More ethical production chain
Alpacas are often raised on small family farms in the Andes, where animal welfare is of utmost importance. Overgrazing by cashmere goats, on the other hand, has caused environmental problems especially in Mongolia and China (Kashmir wool overproduction). Choosing alpaca supports better practices.
9.Domestic Design
Our knitwear is designed in a small workshop in Mathieldahl. Here, domestic design and natural textiles are valued. Every Alpaca Royal knitwear iscarefully finished, a unique product – not mass-produced. This is visible and tangible in the final result.
10.Unique luxury
Alpaca Royal is not just high quality – it is rare. Only a small portion of the annual alpaca production meets the strict criteria of Royal quality. This makes every Royal knitwear a trueeveryday use of a collectible– luxurious yet practical.
Summary
Kashmir knitwear is a classic, butAlpaca Royalit is its modern counterpart:softer, warmer, more durable, and more ecological. If you want a high-quality and responsible choice that lasts over time and looks stunning, the Alpaca Royal sweater is for you.
