Alpaca

On the wool spectrum, alpaca falls into the coveted happy medium of affordability and luxurious feel. The South American native's coat produces a fiber that's as tough as it is soft. From scarves and hats to sweaters of all sorts, the furry cousin of the llama has winter covered. Pick up a few of our suggestions to battle the elements with, but keep in mind this stuff is warm. Don't overdo the layering with an alpaca sweater or else you'll find yourself sweating through your base layers. And since alpaca wool is hypoallergenic it doesn't require any harsh chemicals or high temperatures when washed, just cold water and shampoo or conditioner. The wool is also considered fire resistant, but we'd advise against testing that one.

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  As the North American appetite for alpaca wool expands, illegal smuggling of the animal has become a growing issue.

(Source: BBC)