The Alpaca fiber is the softest and most durable in the world, and after learning more about the furs origin and sustainability, decided to work together with local artisans to create these one of a kind hats.
Alpacas produce an incredibly soft and warm fiber that is now considered more luxurious than other fabrics. Unlike sheep’s wool and cotton, alpaca fiber does not require caustic steps during its production and therefore, does not produce pollution or harm the environment.
Here are some quick facts about how special alpaca fiber is:
- Alpacas roam free in their Natural Habitat up around the Andes, supporting local biodiversity.
- Alpacas have a light footprint. Alpacas nibble on the tops of grasses and other native plants which promotes regenerative agriculture—goats and sheep, on the other hand, rip vegetation out by the root, disturbing the landscape.
- They are gentle creatures. Their soft, padded feet are not harsh on the terrain, allowing them to freely graze without destroying root systems.
- They are highly adaptable. Their fine fleece does not retain water, is naturally a thermal insulator even when wet, and can resist solar radiation.
- Hypoallergenic Wool! Because it does not contain any oil or lanolin, alpaca fibre pills less and is hypoallergenic.
- Guilt free fur - It is not practical or ethical to kill alpacas simply for their hides, because there is so much economic benefit to the farmers by shearing them for their wool. There's a prohibition in effect against killing Alpacas for their hides. All of the hides we use, the alpacas have died of natural causes. Young alpacas can die naturally due to extreme cold and weather, sickness, genetics, or an accident. This is a costly loss to the rancher. They minimize this loss by using the alpaca for food and its pelt.
- Creating Opportunities for Economically Disadvantaged Producers - Patcha supports marginalized artisans and independent family businesses in Peru and establishes long term secure working practices.
We value local artisanal work and craftsmanship and we want to provide a clear supply chain from artisan to consumer. We want to connecting you with not only a beautiful product, but also the story behind it.