Alpaca vs Merino
Alpaca Wool outperforms Merino.
Alpaca fibers evolved in the harsh Peruvian Andes over millennia, to keep you protected on any adventure.
Unique Semi-Hollow Fibers:
• Lighter Weight
• Higher Insulation
Smoothest Fiber Scales:
• Moisture Wicking
• Softer without Felting
High-Performance Fiber
Pack lighter, travel farther.
Get the most out of nature with the ultimate performance fiber. Explore the outdoors clean and dry, with naturally anti-bacterial and temperature regulating Alpaca Wool.
❊ Anti-bacterial & Odor-resistant
↻ High sweat-wicking
☁ High breathability
☀ UV - Protection
✓ Light & durable
Microplastic-Free World
We put a stop to plastic pollution.
It is our mission to make clothes that allow you to explore nature without contaminating it with microplastics.
This is the first step in making our entire catalog petroleum-free and biodegradable.
We use only biodegradable materials:
• 100% Alpaca Wool Fabric
• 100% Cotton Threads
• 100% Cotton Labels
Shipping & Returns
Free Shipping for US orders over $200 that are purchased from our US warehouse.*
Size Guide - Men Upper Layer
Size Guide
Our clothes are a functional fit which is similar to a slim fit. If you prefer a regular fit, we recommend sizing up.
Inches:
| Size | Chest | Waist |
| S | 35 - 38 in | 28 - 31 in |
| M | 38 - 40.5 in | 31 - 34 in |
| L | 40.5 - 43 in | 34 - 36.5 in |
| XL | 43 - 46 in | 36.5 - 39.5 in |
| XXL | 46 - 49 in | 39.5 - 42 in |
How to measure:
LESS WEIGHT, LESS WASHING
Lightweight Sweater
Fabric Specs
- 300g/m2 of 100% Alpaca Wool
- PFAS-free
- Sweater Weight: 324 g (Size M)
- Designed for hiking, trail running, climbing, traveling, and backpacking in all seasons
- Fitted cut with a natural stretch
- Pairs well with our Leggings in winter & fall
Product page - Fabric Care
Fabric Care
Naturally Dyed Clothes
Although natural dyes are environmentally friendly, protective to skin and give pleasing colors, they do not bond with textile fiber materials like synthetic dyes. This may lead to slight color changes when sweating or rubbing and the colors may bleed a little.
We recommend using naturally colored clothing with other dark clothing or equipment like backpacks. We also recommend washing your clothing as little as possible, to ensure that the unique color lasts as long as possible.
If you do find your alpaca clothing needs a wash:
- Hand wash or machine wash on a gentle cycle in cold water with a gentle/wool detergent.
- Wash with like colors. The dye will likely tint the washing water, but the color of your garment won’t be changed.
- If hand-washing, rinse the garment(s) in cold water and gently squeeze out the excess water.
- Lay the garment flat to dry.
- Iron on warm setting, if you feel ironing is necessary.
- Store your garments, preferably folded rather than hung.
A few things to avoid:
- Do not use fabric softener or bleach.
- Be cautious when using citric acid, as it may naturally bleach botanically dyed fabrics.
- Do not tumble dry or dry clean.
- Try not to twist or wring the fabric too much.
NATURAL HIGH-PERFORMANCE
Moisture-Wicking Sweater
For thousands of years, alpacas have been adapting to extreme environments of the Andes Mountains, where temperatures range widely. The harsh highland conditions created the ultimate outdoor fiber, designed to keep you protected, clean, and comfortable.
Designed for the Outdoors
- Perfect Temperature
Semi-hollow fibers act as an internal A/C, balancing your body temperature in extreme climates. - Always Dry
High moisture-wicking fibers keep your body and clothes dry and sweat-free all day. - Clean & Fresh
Naturally anti-bacterial & odor resistant keratin fibers ensure your hygiene.
Go Further, Pack Lighter
Alpaca Wool is lightweight and does not require frequent laundering, letting you explore lighter.
- Light & Durable
Semi-hollow core fibers insulate and make the fabric lighter and resistant. - Wear More, Wash Less
Alpaca dries quickly and absorbs minimal moisture, preventing bacterial growth.
Luxurious Softness
- Smooth Fiber Scales
The scales of alpaca fibers are smoother than those of sheep wool. They help wick moisture away, while also having incredibly low moisture absorption. - 18 to 19 Microns* Alpaca Wool
The finest Alpaca Wool with naturally smooth fiber scales minimize felting and ensure luxurious softness on your skin without itching.
*Microns define the diameter of the fiber.
ALPACA WOOL: FIBER OF THE GODS
The Superior Fiber for the Outdoors
Alpaca wool is a superior choice for the outdoors and outperforms any other fiber: merino wool, cotton, rayon and polyester.
Alpaca vs Other Fibers
Alpaca wool, compared to merino wool, cotton and recycled polyester, is the most breathable, lightweight and softest fiber.
Learn more about the benefits of Alpaca Wool on our blog.
| Alpaca Wool | Merino Wool | Cotton | Recycled Polyester | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carbon Footprint | Lowest | High | High | Very High |
| Single Origin | ✓ | ✖ | ✖ | ✖ |
| Biodegradable | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✖ |
| Fiber Scales | Smooth | Prickled | Soft | Rubbery |
| Microns (Avg.) | 18 | 18 | 5 | 10 |
| Blistering/Chaffing When Sweating | Low | Medium | High | High |
| Thermal Capacity | 5x Warm | Warm | Low | Warm |
| Fiber Medullation | Hollow | Semi-hollow | Hollow | Solid |
| Breathability | High | Medium/High | Highest | Low |
| Moisture Wicking | High | Medium/High | ✖ | ✖ |
| Moisture Retention | <10% | <30% | 100% | Variable |
| Hypoallergenic (no lanolin) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Odor Resistant | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✖ |
| Anti-bacterial | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✖ |
LOW ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Lightweight Sweater
When wearing 100% Alpaca Wool, you can rest assured that your clothes are not contaminating nature.
Alpaca Sweater Materials & Ingredients
- 100% Alpaca Wool Fabric
- 100% Cotton Threads
- 100% Organic Cotton Labels
- 100% Natural Dyes or OEKO-TEX Certified Dyes
- OEKO-TEX Certified Silicone Fabric Finishing
- GOTS Certified Ink (for the labels)
Zero Microplastics & Toxic Chemicals
We created 100% plastic-free and biodegradable shirts so that you can wear your clothes knowing that you are not releasing any microplastics.
Microplastics are not only found in the environment but also in our bloodstream.
Our naturally dyed shirts contain zero synthetic dyes and we are looking for a natural replacement for the silicone fabric finishing.
Our wool is never Superwashed since alpaca fibers are naturally smooth.
Free-Roaming Andean Alpacas
Alpacas roam freely in their natural habitat in the highlands of Peru. Their farmers never harm or kill them for their wool. Alpacas create small footprints that do not damage the fields they graze on. When they eat, they cut the grass, promoting regrowth.
Shipping & Return Policy POP UP
Shipping Policy
USA Orders:
Free Shipping on U.S. Orders Over $200. Please allow 2 business days for handling. Once your order has been shipped, you will receive a tracking number via e-mail.
Orders from Canada:
Orders from Canada over CAD$300 have free shipping. Please kindly allow 7 to 9 business days for handling, this does not shipping time. Shipping time is usually 6 to 10 business days. We use USPS and Canada Post for shipping. This means customs and duties is already included in your order.
*Please kindly note, we are looking for a faster solution to fulfill orders from Canada.
For all other orders:
Please kindly allow 7 to 9 business days for handling, this does not shipping time. Shipping time is usually 6 to 12 business days. We use DHL for shipping and customs and duties are calculated at checkout.
*Please kindly note, we are looking for a faster solution to fulfill orders.
EU customers please go to our EU page.
Return & Refund Policy
Returns
Our policy lasts 15 days. If 15 days have gone by since your purchase, unfortunately we generally cannot offer you a refund or exchange.
Please note, for hygienic purposes, panties and boxer briefs cannot be returned or refunded.
There is a $5 fee for the return slip.
To be eligible for a return, your item must be unused and in the same condition that you received it, according to the warranty below. It must also be in the original packaging.
To complete your return, please log into your account using the email of your order. This is found on the upper right of the homepage. Then select the order, and the reason for the return and submit the request. Please allow us 1 business day to review it. If approved, you will receive the return slip. If decline, we will contact you right away.
Need to Make a Return?
Before sending your item back, please email us at embracenature@armsofandes.com with the subject line:
- Return Request – [Your Order Number].
We require photos of the item to determine if it qualifies for a return or exchange. Once you contact us, we’ll provide the details and next steps.
Refunds (if applicable)
Once your return is received and inspected, we will send you an email to notify you that we have received your returned item. We will also notify you of the approval or rejection of your refund. If you are approved, then your refund will be processed, and a credit will automatically be applied to your credit card or original method of payment, within a certain amount of days.
There are certain situations where only partial refunds are granted (if applicable): Any item that is returned more than 15 days after delivery.
Gift cards are non-refundable. Purchases made with gift cards can be returned and exchanged for store credit.
Warranty
Arms of Andes provides a full refund on any defected item. Natural wear and tear, including pilling and abrasion, is not covered by the Warranty. Damage done by user including but not limited to rips and tears are not covered by the Warranty, including any damage done during any washing not according to our posted washing instructions. Damages will be assessed by Arms of Andes to determine if they fall under the Warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions - POP UP
Frequently Asked Questions
About Alpaca
Why use alpaca wool?
While merino wool has long been the outdoor industry’s benchmark for high-performance natural fiber, alpaca wool has features that make it perfect for use in the outdoors. Research shows that alpaca wool is actually a higher performing natural fiber than merino wool, with improved comfort, moisture-wicking and temperature regulation properties. We also believe that alpaca wool is the most sustainable fiber available on the market, due to the way it is produced, sourced and turned into garments.
Where are Arms of Andes clothes made?
Arms of Andes technical outdoor apparel is made from start to finish in Peru.
Why does Arms of Andes make clothing in Peru?
As the world’s main exporter of alpaca fiber, Peru has the largest population of alpacas in the world and is the seat of knowledge about alpaca wool. Working in Peru allows us to ensure the traceability and quality of our products, as well as reduce our carbon footprint, particularly when considering shipping. Manufacturing the garments close to the source of the alpaca wool means that all transport during production is overland, so we only use air transport for distribution and shipping the final products to you.
Why aren’t other technical products made of alpaca wool?
Alpaca wool is expensive and historically thought of as a fiber for fashion, so alpaca clothing brands have generally focused on luxury and style instead of performance. At Arms of Andes, we have developed a unique fabric made entirely from 100% alpaca wool (the highest grade of alpaca fiber), which performs even better than merino wool in the outdoors.
How is alpaca wool different to merino wool, synthetics and other fabrics?
When compared to merino wool, synthetics and cotton, alpaca wool has been shown to be the softest, lightest, and most breathable option. It also regulates body temperature (in both the heat and the cold) and wicks sweat away from the skin even better than merino wool. Further, the structure of the individual fibers means that alpaca wool is softer and more comfortable than merino. You can find more information on our Alpaca Wool Performance page.
Is alpaca wool itchy?
Not for most people. Sheep’s wool has a reputation for being itchy as it contains a naturally occurring grease called lanolin, that can cause allergic reactions on human skin. Wool fibers also have microscopic “scales” on them which protrude from the surface and cause woolen fabrics to feel prickly or itchy. Alpacas produce tiny amounts of lanolin compared to sheep, reducing the probability of allergic reactions, and scales on alpaca wool fibers are smaller and protrude less, meaning that alpaca clothing feels much softer against the skin.
How to Use Alpaca Products
How do I know what size to choose?
The sizing of Arms of Andes products is based on the international sizing system and you can see the basis of these sizes in our Size Guide.
How do I care for my alpaca wool garments?
Alpaca wool doesn’t need washing as much as other fibers, as it is highly odor-resistant and has anti-bacterial properties. When Arms of Andes garments do need a wash, we recommend hand washing in cool water with a mild detergent and air-drying flat. Chemicals like fabric softeners and bleach are not needed and garments shouldn’t be dry-cleaned or tumble dried. You can see full care instructions here.
Is Alpaca wool just suitable for cold weather?
No! A key feature of alpaca wool is thermal regulation, which means it keeps you warm in cold weather and helps cool you down in the heat. Our fabrics are also highly breathable, and wick sweat away from the body, so you’ll be comfortable in our lighter base layers, even on hard hikes in hot weather.
What is the difference between 230 and 420 fabrics?
These numbers refer to the fabric weight system, indicating how much one square meter of alpaca wool fabric weighs. In functional terms, this means that the higher the number, the warmer the clothing will be. Garments with a 420 weight are the thickest and warmest and work well in cold conditions, while the 230 garments are lightweight and suitable for use in all but the warmest conditions. On the other hand, 110 garments are perfect anywhere: underneath other layers for added warmth on a cold hike or on their own in a hot yoga class.
What does layering mean?
Layering is a way of dressing to account for the varying conditions you will encounter during any outdoor activity. Layering starts with a thinner base layer, that sits next to your skin, followed by additional layers, of the same or increasing thickness. Using several thinner layers has been shown to be warmer than one thick layer, as a layer of warm air gets trapped between each piece of clothing, helping to keep you warm. Layering also means your clothing will feel less bulky, giving greater freedom of movement. It is important that the layers fit snugly – especially the one next to your skin – as this helps to maintain heat and improves the moisture-wicking capabilities of your layering system. Another benefit of layering is that you can adapt to changing conditions when you’re out and about, taking layers off as the day warms up and putting them on again when you feel cold.
Purchasing with Arms of Andes
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards or, if you prefer, you can pay with your Paypal, Amazon Pay, GPay and Shop Pay account.
How much does shipping cost?
Free shipping on orders above $200 within the USA. For Canada, the shipping cost can range between $10 to $50. Shipping to the rest of the world generally costs around $25, based on the weight and size of the package. For shipping to Europe and the United Kingdom, please visit our European Site.
When will I receive my products?
Please allow 2 business days after the date of purchase for handling. Delivery within the USA can take 2-7 business days. We deliver from Los Angeles, CA, so all items have already passed US customs.
Which countries do you ship to?
We can ship to almost any location worldwide. In the USA and Canada, shipping for orders under US$200 is calculated based on the package weight, while orders over US$200 include free shipping. For shipping to Europe and the United Kingdom, please visit our European site. Shipping to the rest of the world usually costs around US$25, depending on the weight of your order.
How can I track my order?
Once your items have been shipped, we will send you a tracking number by e-mail.
How can I return or exchange products?
We want you to feel confident about ordering with us. You have 15 days from the day you receive your order to return your garments for a full refund or an exchange. All garments must be returned in their original condition. Once we receive your return and confirm the condition is good, you will receive a full refund or the new item. For hygienic purposes, panties and boxer briefs cannot be returned or refunded.
How are refunds processed?
Once the item you are returning is received and inspected, we will send you an email to notify you and confirm if the refund will be approved. After approval, the corresponding amount will be credited to credit card or original method of payment, within a certain amount of days.
SINGLE ORIGIN SUPPLY CHAIN
Where Was This Sweater Made?
We use natural local resources and a short transparent supply chain. Our mission is to teach you as much as possible about how clothes should be made. Together we can move the fashion industry towards a sustainable future.
Designed & Made in One Country: Peru
Contrary to industry norms, every step involved in making our clothes is done in only one country: Peru, the home of our family. Our production in Peru includes fiber sourcing, yarn spinning, fabric knitting, dyeing, finishing, and garment sewing.
From Peru, our clothes go straight to California or Europe on its journey to you.
Low Carbon Footprint
Manufacturing in one country allows us to greatly reduce our carbon footprint and freight shipping. This is a major step on our journey to becoming a carbon negative company.
Transparency & Traceability
We avoid industrial farming by working with co-op farmers in the Andes. Doing everything in Peru guarantees we know how the alpacas and the workers involved are being treated.
