Understanding GSM as it relates to Alpaca Wool knits

When shopping for high-quality knitwear, you’ll often see GSM (grams per square meter) used to measure fabric weight and thickness. While helpful for comparing materials like wool and alpaca, GSM doesn’t tell the full story of warmth, breathability, and overall performance.

What is GSM and Why Does It Matter?

GSM measures fabric density, helping determine whether a garment is lightweight and breathable (low GSM) or thick and heavy (high GSM). However, it fails to capture alpaca’s exceptional insulation and moisture-wicking abilities.

Why GSM Falls Short for Alpaca Knitwear

Unlike wool, alpaca fibers have hollow spaces, trapping heat efficiently. This makes alpaca:

• 4x warmer than Merino wool
• Lightweight yet highly insulating
• Exceptionally warm without bulk

For a wool garment to match the warmth of an alpaca pullover, it would need to be four times thicker. Alpaca knits feel light, even thin, but their performance far exceeds expectations—keeping you warm without the weight.

Alpaca vs. Wool: The Clear Advantage

• Warmer & Lighter – Natural insulation without added bulk
• More Breathable – Wicks moisture 85% better than wool
• Odor-Resistant – Stays fresh even after repeated wear
• Eco-Friendly – Less material, better performance

Moisture-Wicking: Stay Dry & Comfortable

Wool absorbs up to 50% of its weight in moisture, often feeling heavy and damp. Alpaca’s hollow fibers actively wick moisture away from the body, keeping you dry and comfortable—even during high activity.

Odor Resistance: Stay Fresh Longer

Since alpaca doesn’t retain moisture, it also doesn’t trap odors. Unlike wool, which can absorb sweat and develop odors, alpaca stays fresh—even after extended wear. Perfect for travel, outdoor adventures, and daily comfort.

Lifestyle-Friendly Warmth: Less Bulk, More Performance

Alpaca’s insulation allows for thinner, high-performance layers, reducing material use and energy consumption.

A Unique Market Offering: Premium Performance-Based Alpaca Apparel

Sun Valley Alpaca Co. creates premium alpaca knitwear that outperforms wool in warmth, breathability, and sustainability—offering a luxurious yet functional alternative for both outdoor and everyday wear.

So, Now you know GSM Isn’t the Full Picture

The two measurements for GSM again are fabric density, helping determine whether a garment is lightweight and breathable (low GSM) or a thick and heavy insulator (high GSM). Alpaca is all of these metrics combined into one textile.

While GSM is a useful fabric metric, it doesn’t reflect alpaca’s natural characteristics; superior warmth, moisture control, or lightweight comfort. 

Our alpaca knits may seem light, but they outperform expectations, offering unmatched comfort and performance without the bulk of wool or synthetics.

Experience the Alpaca Difference

When choosing premium knitwear, GSM is just one factor—but alpaca’s natural performance makes it the superior choice.

Looking for lightweight warmth? Discover the power of alpaca by shopping at Sun Valley Alpaca Co. today!