In the world of garments, one of the most important aspects we always have in mind is: “what is this piece made from?”

And there are a lot of different materials, each with its advantages and disadvantages to consider. But, amongst all of these various fibers, some stand out. They are considered better, more luxurious, and more fashionable than others.

In this article, we’ll look at some of these materials and compare them to the one we love the most – cashmere. Let’s see which fiber will become the king of all fibres!

Merino Wool vs Cashmere

Before we start comparing cashmere vs merino, let’s quickly explain what merino wool is. Just like cashmere is harvested from cashmere goats, merino wool comes from a special breed of sheep, the merino sheep. It’s often seen as a practical, everyday alternative to cashmere. But is it really comparable? Let’s find out.

• Softness: Cashmere is the softer material here. Merino wool is definitely gentler and less itchy than regular sheep’s wool. The finest merino can feel beautifully smooth, but cashmere still has that unmistakable edge.
• Warmth: Cashmere is warmer than merino, about two to three times more insulating by weight. Both regulate temperature well, but cashmere’s finer fibres trap more air for extra cosiness.
• Durability: Merino is sturdier and resists pilling better. Cashmere’s shorter fibres need gentler care to stay in good shape.
• Breathability: Both are breathable, but merino pulls ahead. It handles moisture better, which is why it’s popular in outdoor clothing.
• Weight: There’s little difference. Both are light and comfortable, though cashmere feels slightly airier.
• Price: Merino wool costs less.

It’s easy to see why merino is often compared to cashmere. But if you want the softest, most luxurious warmth, cashmere still wins.

Wool vs Cashmere

And now it’s time for a round between sheep and goats. How will standard sheep’s wool fare against the prized undercoat of the cashmere goat? Let’s compare wool vs cashmere.

• Softness: Cashmere is much softer and finer than regular sheep’s wool. Wool often feels coarser and can be itchy when worn directly on the skin.
• Warmth: Cashmere offers greater warmth and insulation by weight. Its fine fibres trap more air, making it naturally cosy even in light layers.
• Durability: Sheep’s wool is generally tougher and more resistant to wear. Cashmere is more delicate and benefits from gentle care to maintain its look and feel.
• Breathability: Both fibres are breathable and temperature-regulating, but cashmere manages warmth with slightly more balance, keeping you comfortable across seasons.
• Weight: Cashmere is lighter and softer in hand, while wool tends to feel denser and more structured.
• Price: Sheep’s wool is far more common and affordable. Cashmere remains a premium fibre due to its limited supply and labour-intensive production.

But what about lambswool vs cashmere? Wool from young sheep is indeed smoother and softer, yet it still can’t match the fine, fluffy texture of true cashmere.

Once again, cashmere comes out on top. While it’s less durable than wool, good care will keep it beautiful for years. Many fabrics combine the two fibres—wool adds strength, while cashmere lends its signature softness and luxury.

Alpaca Wool vs Cashmere

And now it’s time for yet another remarkable animal fibre. This one is from a distant cousin of the camel. That’s right, although they look nothing alike, alpacas belong to the same family as camels. But how does their wool compare to cashmere? Let’s find out.

• Softness: Cashmere still takes the crown when it comes to softness. The very finest cashmere fibres measure around 14–16 microns in diameter, giving them that signature buttery feel against the skin. High-quality baby alpaca fibres are slightly thicker (around 18–22 microns), so they feel smooth and luxurious but not quite as cloud-soft as top-grade cashmere.
• Warmth: Yes, alpaca wool is warmer than cashmere. Its fibres are partly hollow, forming tiny air pockets that trap heat exceptionally well. This makes alpaca garments incredibly insulating, even when lightweight. However, that same quality can be a double-edged sword. What feels luxuriously cosy on a crisp mountain morning may feel a touch too warm indoors or during milder weather. Cashmere, by contrast, offers a gentler balance. It’s warm enough for cool days yet breathable enough for year-round wear. It also layers effortlessly, which is part of why cashmere remains the go-to choice for everyday comfort.
• Durability: Alpaca wool fibres are longer, typically twice the length of cashmere, and naturally stronger, making them more resistant to pilling and stretching. High-quality cashmere will last decades when well cared for, but alpaca is inherently more robust fibre-to-fibre.
• Breathability: Despite being warmer, alpaca wool remains impressively breathable thanks to those same hollow fibres. It helps regulate body temperature and wicks away moisture, performing beautifully across a range of conditions.
• Weight: Cashmere is slightly less dense than alpaca wool, but since alpaca fibres contain more air pockets, the difference in how garments feel on the body is subtle. In practice, both create featherlight, drapey knits.
• Price: Although alpacas sound exotic, alpaca wool is actually produced in greater quantities than cashmere worldwide. That’s why, despite its quality, it tends to cost less. Only the finest baby alpaca or Royal alpaca grades approach the price of premium cashmere.

The debate between alpaca wool and cashmere doesn’t have a clear winner. Cashmere reigns supreme for its unrivalled softness and heritage, while alpaca impresses with its warmth and strength. In the end, the best choice depends on what you value most.

Cotton vs Cashmere

We’ll start with the only plant-based material on the list. Cotton is a much more common fibre, yet it’s still valued for its comfort and versatility. But how does it compare to cashmere?

• Softness: There’s no real contest here. Cashmere is far softer and smoother against the skin. Cotton can feel crisp or even slightly rough depending on the weave, while quality cashmere always feels gentle and luxurious.
• Warmth: Both cashmere and cotton can feel comfortable across seasons, but cashmere insulates far better. Cotton absorbs and retains moisture, which can make it feel cool or even damp in cold weather. Cashmere, on the other hand, keeps warmth close while remaining breathable.
• Durability: Cashmere fibres hold their shape well and, with proper care, can last for many years. Cotton is sturdy but tends to lose softness and structure faster over time.
• Breathability: Cotton is naturally breathable, yet cashmere regulates temperature more effectively. It adapts better to both warm and cool conditions, keeping you comfortable without overheating.
• Weight: Cashmere is lighter and airier than cotton, which gives garments a more elegant drape and softer hand feel.
• Price: Cotton is far cheaper to produce due to large-scale mechanised farming. Cashmere, by contrast, must be collected by hand from the fine undercoat of goats, which makes it much more exclusive.

Round one of our fibre comparison clearly goes to cashmere. It’s softer, lighter, and better at keeping you comfortable in different temperatures. Cotton wins in affordability and practicality, especially for everyday basics, but it can’t quite match the refined feel and prestige of cashmere.

Silk vs Cashmere

Silk is also an animal-based material, but from a very different source. It is produced from the cocoons of silkworms and is known as one of the most luxurious fibres in the world. In fact, silk is so distinctive that it even has its own adjective, silky. So which is better, silk or cashmere?

• Softness: Both silk and cashmere are exceptionally soft, but in different ways. Silk feels cool, smooth, and fluid against the skin. Cashmere feels warm, plush, and cloud-like.
• Warmth: Cashmere provides better insulation overall, making it a clear choice for colder weather. Silk offers a lighter kind of warmth that works well in transitional seasons.
• Durability: Silk is a strong natural fibre, but it is more prone to tearing and damage from sunlight or friction. Cashmere is less likely to tear but can pill if handled roughly. Both require gentle care.
• Breathability: Both fibres are breathable and help regulate temperature naturally. Cashmere has a slight edge in insulation, while silk feels cooler and more moisture-wicking.
• Weight: Silk is lighter and smoother, giving it a graceful drape. Cashmere feels airier yet more substantial in texture.
• Price: On average, silk is a bit less expensive than high-quality cashmere, though prices vary widely depending on grade and craftsmanship.

In truth, comparing silk and cashmere is a little like comparing light and warmth. Both are beautiful, but they serve different purposes. Silk shines in elegance and fluidity, while cashmere offers comfort and softness. The choice simply comes down to what kind of luxury you prefer.

To conclude, let’s answer a very common question: “Why is cashmere the best?”

• It offers unparalleled softness, and gives the cosiest, fluffiest feeling, while not irritating the skin.
• It keeps you warm even during winter, while not overheating you in summer.
• Its durability may not be the best there is, but with proper care, it can still last you a lifetime.
• Cashmere breathability is among the highest in clothing materials.
• It’s extremely lightweight.

All of these qualities are reflected in the price of cashmere, but if you’re looking for the highest quality of clothing, you can never go wrong with cashmere. But how do you identify high-quality cashmere? Read our article on testing cashmere next.