Travelling around Peru, I became very acquainted with the alpaca population. The domesticated breed is not spotted in the wild but is seen dotted across the Andes Mountains, typically in groups alongside their babies (crias) and llamas – and usually sporting an adorable smile. Where you find alpacas, you will no doubt see an entrepreneur flogging garments constructed in the camel-related species’ fibres.
After a couple of weeks of window shopping, one thing became very clear: I could not leave the country without investing in alpaca layers. I filled my suitcase with scarves, jumpers and socks made from the sumptuous softness of the quality material, ready for the British winter to take hold. In our mercurial islands, the cold is never far off, and an arsenal of thick knitted apparel is paramount to brave the subzero temperatures.
And alpaca is one of the most luxurious choices on the market, once the reserve for the elite and nobility. Filling your sock drawer with alpaca is as much a practical choice as much as it is a promise of exceptional comfort. The versatile animal’s fleece is an insulator but it is also thermal regulating, meaning it will keep you warm when it’s Arctic outside but has moisture and odour-wicking and breathability if the weather takes a turn for the better.
Alpaca fibres are also hypoallergenic as they are free from lanolin, so those with sensitivities or allergies are unlikely to be irritated by its touch. Last but certainly not least, the soft feel makes socks constructed in the fabric ripe for bedtime wear , so they’ll be the ultimate companion come duvet days on lazy Sundays – but they’re typically lightweight enough to prevent overheating or a suffocating feeling. Look out for different grades of alpaca fibre, you will find royal alpaca and baby alpaca which are the finest and so most premium available due to their low micron count or the more ubiquitous grade three and four that offer more durability.
There is also vicuña wool that goes for quadruple figures and is derived from the hair of the rare South American vicuña. Whether you’re looking for a gift for the cosy connoisseur in your life or you’re on the hunt for soft and slouchy cushioned socks to protect your feet come winter, we have gathered the best alpaca socks to have delivered to your door. A jaunt to the home of Machu Pichu or Pisco sours is recommended but not essential.
Shop below.
