Semi-hollow core fiber traps more heat at a lighter weight, resists the pilling that wears out merino, and carries 8 to 10 times less lanolin.
8 to 10 Times Less Lanolin. Raw Alpaca carries under 3% lanolin versus up to 25% in raw merino fleece.
Higher Tensile Strength. Built to resist the pilling and premature wear that are the top complaint about merino.
Single-Origin Peru. The only 100% Alpaca outdoor apparel brand, from the Andes to your back.
Alpaca fiber has a semi-hollow core, so it traps more heat at a lighter weight than merino. That is the whole reason one layer can do more.
A common complaint about merino: it still smells by day two. Alpaca is naturally odor-resistant and goes more days between washes.
Alpaca absorbs less water than merino, dries faster, and resists getting soaked through when the effort picks up.
Pilling and premature holes are the top complaint among merino buyers. Alpaca fiber has higher tensile strength, built to hold up wash after wash.
Raw merino fleece can carry up to 25% of its weight in lanolin. Raw Alpaca carries less than 3%, roughly 8 to 10 times less, almost no wool grease at all.
Merino is everywhere, and mainstream merino gear is often blended with nylon or elastane just to hold up. Even then, it is still known for the same three complaints: pilling within a season, odor by day two, and itch against sensitive skin.
Alpaca fiber solves this at the source. More warmth for less weight, a stronger fiber for durability, and 8 to 10 times less lanolin for softness. It is the performance upgrade for anyone who has already tried merino and walked away disappointed.
Arms of Andes is the only 100% Alpaca outdoor apparel brand. Single-origin, from the Andes to your back.
The fiber-level differences that carry through into everything above.
| Alpaca | Merino | |
|---|---|---|
| Warmth-to-Weight | High | Moderate |
| Odor Resistance | Naturally Resistant | Some Resistance, Often Smells by Day Two |
| Moisture Management | Absorbs Less, Dries Fast | Absorbs More, Dries Slower |
| Durability | Stronger Fiber, Resists Pilling | Prone to Pilling and Holes |
| Lanolin Content | Under 3% | Up to 25% |
| Feel on Skin | Soft, Minimal Itch | Can Itch |
| Origin | Single-Origin, Peru | Often Blended, Mixed With Synthetics |
| Market Position | Only 100% Alpaca Outdoor Brand | Widely Available |
Based on fiber-level performance. Individual results vary by garment weight and construction.
Everyday essentials in 100% Alpaca. No blends, no synthetics in the fiber, just the wool that outperforms merino.
Prices shown are current store prices, no code needed. Colors and sizes available on each product page.
I really notice the difference compared to Merino wool in the warmth and climate control department.
Rick G.
Outstanding keeps you warm but you don’t over heat while working.
Sergio G.Cool for Summer and warm for Fall, even some winter temps!
David S.Straight from people who made the switch from merino to 100% Alpaca.
Alpaca stays comfortable across a wider temperature swing than merino, so fewer garments cover more conditions.
Naturally odor-resistant and gentler on skin, so the same piece works for longer stretches without needing a wash.
One 100% Alpaca layer traps heat when it drops and breathes when it climbs, versus reaching for a different merino piece for every shift.
The only 100% Alpaca outdoor apparel brand. Single-origin Peru, built to outperform merino.
Colors and sizes available on each product page. While stock lasts.
Alert me if this item is restocked.
We often restock popular items or they may be returned by the other customers. If you would like to be notified when this happens just enter your details below.
We respect your privacy and don't share your email with anybody.
Alert me if this item is restocked
Thank you, we have now received and recorded your request to be notified should be restocked.
We will only use your email for this purpose.