The wool of these lovable animals (part of the New World camelid family) varies considerably in fiber length and fineness. The entire range spans from 19.0 microns (baby alpaca) to 35.9 microns (strong). These differences affect not only durability and warmth, but above all, softness. Anyone who has ever worn a cheap alpaca sweater, like those often sold at Christmas markets in this country, against their bare skin will hardly describe it as cuddly soft. The comparatively thick, short fibers stand out from the yarn like thorns. Fine, long-fiber qualities, on the other hand, are truly buttery soft and have a subtle sheen. Alpaca provides excellent warmth while remaining breathable. It feels slightly heavier than, for example, sheep's wool, which gives knitted garments a flowing drape. Further advantages: Due to its low lanolin content, alpaca is even suitable for some allergy sufferers, and alpaca wool is virtually non-pilling.