When people think of alpacas, they picture a fluffy, round animal. That's the Huacaya. But there is a second breed, the Suri, very different and much rarer. We explain everything.

Huacaya Alpaca

The Huacaya represents approximately 95% of the world alpaca population. Its fibre grows perpendicular to the body, is crimped and very dense, giving it a fluffy, rounded appearance that many describe as "a cloud with legs".

Its fibre is:

  • Soft and warm, ideal for everyday garments.
  • Easy to process in the textile industry.
  • Available in more than 22 natural colours.
  • Very versatile: from socks to high-fashion coats.

Suri Alpaca

The Suri is the rarest and most valued breed, representing only 5–8% of the population. Its fibre falls in long, silky, shiny locks that reach the ground, giving it a completely different appearance: more like a storybook creature than a farm animal.

Its fibre is:

  • Exceptionally silky and shiny, comparable to silk.
  • With very little crimp, making it more delicate to process.
  • Highly prized in haute couture and luxury products.
  • More expensive than Huacaya fibre due to its scarcity.

Which is better?

There is no "better" breed: they are simply different. The Huacaya is the most practical and accessible option for commercial breeding. The Suri is the "Rolls-Royce" of animal fibres, sought after by luxury fashion designers worldwide.

If you visit an alpaca ranch, pay attention to whether they have both breeds: it is a very striking visual experience to see the differences in person.

How to tell them apart from a distance?

Very easy:

  • Huacaya: fluffy and round appearance, "afro" fibre.
  • Suri: fibre falls in long, smooth locks, like natural dreadlocks.