Llama Clothing from the Altiplano

Altiplano Insulation, Inc. is dedicated to producing clothing of all natural 100% llama fiber in styles that appeal to American tastes and lifestyles. Llama fiber provides comfort and performance superior to sheep's wool and synthetics. (Learn more)

What is the Altiplano?

The “altiplano” (high plane) serves as the geologic pedestal of the Andes Mountains of South America. This high desert plateau (12,000’-15,000’ elevation) is home to the llama, a domestic camelid species. The llamas’ thick fleece of soft, hollow fiber has been shorn annually by its Quechua owners and used in various textiles for over 6000 years. The llama’s fiber along with the animal’s other uses has been the foundation of survival for the Quechua in this extreme environment.

Designs Available

• Alpamayo Llama Jacket, Vest & Pullover -- Skiing and Mountaineering
• Cuzco Llama Jacket & Vest -- Features for everyday outerwear in cool to cold weather
• Vaquero Llama Jacket & Vest -- Ranch/Western style - durable with maximum warmth
• Sports & Casual -- Golfing, Hiking, Biking, Motorcycling - classic functional design
• For Women Only

Superior Performance

Of the many advantages of llama fiber, the preeminent quality is the broad comfort range (50 degrees) provided by this lightweight fiber. A hollow fiber, llama is very warm for its weight and naturally thermostatic. It has a natural capacity to regulate moisture (wicking) to produce a comfort level that is unmatched by other fibers. Llama garments shed moisture and are warm when wet. These traits endow our clothing with uncommon versatility. The fiber’s versatile performance allows the elimination of layers that are foundational to synthetic protection systems. This means less pieces of clothing to buy, less bulk to carry and restrict movement, and less hassle constantly adding and shedding layers to regulate body temperature. Your body, daypack, and carryon all travel lighter.

Clothing Made on the Altiplano

Our llama fiber is shorn, processed into fabric, and sewn by the natives of the altiplano. The fabric we use in our outerwear requires special equipment, an involved production process, and above average skill to sew. Centuries of experience, state-of-the art equipment, and pride in producing high quality products representing their national heritage qualify the natives as the best choice. This is part of the Andean nations efforts to focus their economies on sustainable local resources.

All Natural

Llama fiber is shorn annually from the llama with no harm to the animal. The fleece contains no lanolin, thus, no chemical scouring agents are required in prepping it for processing. The fibers' low scale gives it a naturally soft hand so it requires no "superwashing" and the resultant resin coating common to "no itch" merino wool clothing. This produces an all-natural product, uncompromised in function, hypoallergenic, and comfortable, even for sensitive skin. (Learn more)

Naturally Clean & Washable

The natural cleanliness of llama fabric is impressive. The fiber is low in static electricity so it doesn't attract lint and debris and cleans up nicely with a shake or light brushing. It's naturally antimicrobial so it doesn't retain body odors that are a persistent problem with synthetics. Additionally, the fabric is quite resilient, doesn't mat or pill, and is naturally stain resistant. It is washable using the gentle cycle or hand washing with cold water and mild soap or shampoo.

Natural Colors

Five colors of fabric (brown, coarse brown, gray, coarse charcoal, and black) are currently in production. We use these neutral colors to produce classic designs that are enduring. Our colors and designs add to the versatility and useful lifetime of the garments because they can be worn as complements with many other pieces of clothing and don't become dated with passing trends. The gray, browns, and charcoal are all natural colors while the black has an acid fast over-dye. These colors will not fade or change and have a natural richness that is complementary to a wide array of colors, textures, and complexions.