Alpaca wool vs synthetic fibres: 4 reasons to choose natural fibres in 2025

Why should you choose alpaca wool over synthetic materials?

On the surface, it’s a simple enough question to answer. Alpaca wool is renowned for being lighter, warmer, and softer than many of its synthetic counterparts. 

However, it’s no secret that clothing made from synthetic fibres is more affordable, accessible and easier to look after for many shoppers. 

Despite this, natural fibres are growing in popularity - with the global market estimated to be worth $72.77 billion in 2024. Similarly, the sustainable fabrics sector is expected to grow 12.7% per year through to 2037. So, natural fibres are definitely finding their way back into our wardrobes!

At Lacorine, we’ve always championed the benefits of natural fibres - like alpaca wool - since we began in 2006. Here’s why we believe alpaca wool will always offer clear advantages over synthetics to the conscious consumer: 

Understanding the difference between natural and synthetic fibres

Alpaca wool comes from the fleece of alpacas, which are native to the Andes in Peru, Bolivia, and Chile. 

Indigenous Andean communities have treasured alpaca fleece for generations, using it to create clothing and accessories that can withstand harsh conditions, while remaining moveable and comfortable. 

In comparison, synthetic materials are man-made fibres produced through chemical processes, typically from petroleum-based products. 

While technological advances have significantly improved the production of synthetic materials in recent years, there’s no denying that fast fashion is responsible for as much as 10% of global carbon dioxide emissions.

The natural performance advantages of alpaca wool

We’ve talked about the benefits offered by natural fibres like alpaca wool in the past. Nevertheless, alpaca wool outperforms synthetic materials in several ways. 

Its unique, hollow structure creates microscopic air pockets. These air pockets trap heat efficiently, while remaining lightweight. This natural design adapts to your body’s needs - keeping you warm in cold weather, and cool in warmer conditions. 

In contrast, synthetics aren’t as versatile. Synthetic fabrics often trap heat and moisture against your skin, creating that uncomfortable, plastic-wrapped feeling.

Where alpaca truly stands apart is its longevity. We’ve been conditioned by fast fashion to expect our clothes to last a season if we’re lucky. Alpaca wool offers a refreshing alternative - its natural strength and antimicrobial properties means garments not only hold their shape and maintain their appearance for longer, but they also need washing less frequently. 

With the right care, quality alpaca pieces can quickly become heirlooms, rather than disposable items. 

Environmental considerations

The environmental impact of our clothing choices extends far beyond the wearing.

Synthetic materials typically require energy-intensive manufacturing processes, and are derived from non-renewable, petroleum-based resources. Most synthetics also release microplastics when washed, and can take hundreds of years to decompose once disposed of.

Not only is alpaca wool a renewable resource, but alpacas themselves have a light environmental footprint. Their padded feet cause minimal terrain damage, and their grazing habits preserve plant roots.

Alpaca wool also requires minimal processing, and will eventually biodegrade naturally at the end of its lifecycle. 

Appealing to the conscious consumer

The sustainable fabrics sector, which includes natural fibres, is currently worth at least $37.1 billion, and is set to grow year-on-year through to 2037. Moreover, the sustainable fashion market is projected to be worth $33.1 billion by 2033. 

This growth isn’t just happening in traditional markets. While Asia-Pacific currently dominates the natural fibre market with 51.1% of global revenue, North America is seeing the fastest growth rate, indicating a worldwide shift in consumer demand and preferences.

Making an informed choice

When comparing alpaca wool and other natural fibres with synthetic materials, consider these factors:

• Is it comfortable against your skin, and will you be able to wear it all day without irritation?

• How does it handle moisture, temperature changes, and regular wear? 

• Will the garment maintain its appearance and function after multiple wears and washes?

• What resources were used to create the product, and what happens when it’s no longer wearable?

Natural fibres, including alpaca wool, consistently outperform synthetic alternatives across these considerations, offering a solution that doesn’t compromise on quality or comfort. 

Looking forward

As consumers become more aware of the impact of their wardrobes on the environment, the natural fibre market will continue to grow.

By choosing alpaca wool and other natural fibres in favour of synthetic materials, you’re not just selecting a superior product, you’re supporting sustainable practices, too. We know the future of fashion can’t lie with disposable synthetic pieces. It has to be led by natural materials that offer genuine quality and comfort - while being gentle on the planet, too.

Explore how natural fibres can enhance your wardrobe and lifestyle through our collection of alpaca pieces.