Two Distinct Alpaca Breeds

Suri alpacas are known for their distinctive, lustrous fleece that drapes in long, elegant locks—resembling ringlets or dreadlocks that hang close to the body. This silky fiber reflects light beautifully, creating a natural sheen that sets Suris apart from their more common Huacaya cousins.

Unlike Huacaya fleece, which is measured by volume and crimp, Suri fleece is prized for its handle—that is, how it feels in your hands. The best Suri fiber is smooth, cool, and slippery to the touch, sometimes even giving a slightly greasy feel. This texture signals exceptional fineness and quality, often making the animal appear smaller than it truly is.

Highly sought after by fiber artists, fashion designers, and luxury textile makers, Suri fleece is both rare and revered—representing only about 10–15% of the global alpaca population.

Huacaya alpacas are the more common of the two alpaca breeds and are easily recognized by their soft, fluffy appearance—like a living teddy bear! Their fleece grows in dense, crimpy bundles that stand out perpendicularly from the body, giving them a much larger, puffier look than their sleek Suri cousins.

Each fiber grows from individual follicles and is naturally rich in texture—never dry or flaky, but soft and springy with uniform crimp. This structure makes Huacaya fleece especially desirable for yarns that hold shape well, such as knits and wovens with bounce and loft.

Known for its consistency and workability, Huacaya fleece is ideal for a wide range of products, from cozy socks and hats to fine fashion garments. It’s the go-to choice for many spinners and fiber artists—and also the breed most commonly seen on alpaca farms across the globe.