Mohair vs. Alpaca vs. Merino Wool — Which One Should You Choose?
Mohair, alpaca, and merino wool are three of the most sought-after fibers in hand-knitwear, and each one brings something different to a finished sweater. If you're deciding which fiber suits you best, here's an honest breakdown.
Mohair: Airy Warmth and a Signature Halo
Mohair comes from the Angora goat and is known for its long, lustrous fibers that create a soft, fuzzy "halo" around the yarn. It's incredibly warm for its weight, has a beautiful sheen, and drapes wonderfully in oversized silhouettes. Mohair can shed lightly, especially when new, and is best hand washed with care.
Alpaca: Silky, Hypoallergenic, and Dense
Alpaca fiber is warmer than sheep's wool, naturally hypoallergenic since it contains no lanolin, and has a beautiful silky drape. It comes in two forms — Huacaya, which is soft and crimped, and Suri, which is long, sleek, and almost silk-like. Alpaca knits tend to be smoother and less fuzzy than mohair, with a heavier, more structured drape.
Merino Wool: Soft, Breathable, and Easy to Wear
Merino comes from Merino sheep and is famous for being one of the softest sheep's wools available, with much finer fibers than standard wool. It's naturally breathable, moisture-wicking, and less prone to itching, making it a great everyday choice for sensitive skin.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you want dramatic texture and a fuzzy, romantic look, mohair is unbeatable. If you prefer a smoother, silkier drape with excellent warmth, alpaca is the way to go. And if you want a soft, breathable, easy-care everyday sweater, merino is a wonderful all-rounder. Many of our pieces even blend mohair with merino for the best of both worlds — warmth, softness, and that signature fuzzy finish.
