One of the most common questions we receive is:
What is the GSM (grams per square meter) for your base layers and T-shirts?
For those researching high-quality apparel, GSM is a key metric that helps determine the weight and thickness of the fabric. Here's the breakdown:
- Fabric for Base Layers: 210 GSM
- Fabric for T-Shirts: 140 GSM
While these numbers give a sense of weight, they only tell part of the story. When comparing alpaca to wool or other fibers, it’s important to consider the unique performance features that set alpaca apart.
What is GSM and Why Does It Matter?
GSM (grams per square meter) measures the density of fabric. It’s a useful way to compare materials of similar types, like wool vs. alpaca, or to assess the suitability of a garment for specific activities. A higher GSM generally indicates a heavier, thicker fabric, while a lower GSM suggests something lightweight and breathable.
In our base layers, the 210 GSM fabric strikes the perfect balance between warmth and flexibility, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the 140 GSM fabric in our T-shirts provides a lightweight option that’s breathable and perfect for everyday wear.
Why Alpaca Outperforms Wool
Many customers want to know how alpaca compares to Merino wool, and the answer lies in the structure of the fibers.
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Warmth
- Alpaca fiber is 4x warmer than Merino wool.
- Unlike wool, alpaca fibers are completely hollow, allowing them to trap warm air much like polar bear fur. This creates exceptional thermal insulation without adding bulk. For a wool garment to match the warmth of an alpaca pullover, it would need to be 4x as thick.
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Moisture Wicking
- Wool fibers have air pockets that absorb up to 50% of their weight in moisture, which can lead to a heavy, damp, and sticky feeling.
- Alpaca fibers, on the other hand, use their hollow structure to push moisture away from the body. Heat from your body acts like an engine, driving moisture to the garment’s exterior. This wicking ability is 85% more effective than wool, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable.
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Odor Resistance
- Since alpaca doesn’t retain moisture, it also doesn’t retain the odors associated with sweat. Wool, when wet, can trap smells, but alpaca stays fresh even after prolonged wear.
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Eco-Friendly Warmth
- Alpaca requires less energy to keep you warm because of its natural insulation properties. This means you can wear thinner garments without sacrificing comfort or performance.
A Unique Market Offering
It’s important to note that there are currently no other high-tech alpaca pullovers on the market for direct comparison. Alpacas of Montana stands out by delivering performance-driven alpaca products that blend luxury, warmth, and sustainability in ways wool cannot match.
Why GSM Isn't the Full Picture
While GSM can provide a helpful reference point, it doesn’t account for alpaca’s superior thermal performance, moisture management, or comfort compared to wool or synthetic fibers. So while our 210 GSM base layers and 140 GSM T-shirts may seem lightweight, their performance exceeds expectations, keeping you warm without the weight.
For more details on how alpaca compares to Merino wool, check out our in-depth blog: Merino Sheep’s Wool vs. Alpaca Fleece.
Ready to experience the difference? Discover the unparalleled comfort and performance of alpaca today!