Wool and cashmere are both natural fibers that are commonly used in textile production. However, they have some key differences:
- Origin: Wool comes from the hair of sheep, while cashmere comes from the undercoat of cashmere goats.
- Fiber length: Wool fibers are usually longer than cashmere fibers, which makes wool stronger and more durable than cashmere.
- Fiber diameter: Cashmere fibers have a smaller diameter than wool fibers, which makes cashmere softer and less itchy to the skin.
- Insulation: Both wool and cashmere are naturally insulating, but cashmere provides more warmth for its weight than wool.
- Moisture-wicking: Both wool and cashmere have natural moisture-wicking properties, which help to keep the wearer dry and comfortable.
- Price: Cashmere is generally more expensive than wool because it is more scarce and requires a more labor-intensive process to produce.
- Color: Wool fibers come in a variety of natural colors, while cashmere fibers are usually white or light gray, allowing for the use of rich and vibrant dyes.
- Use: Wool is a versatile fabric used for making clothing, blankets, carpets and more. Cashmere is mostly used for making clothing, especially high-end items, such as sweaters and scarfs.
In summary, cashmere is generally considered to be a finer and more luxurious fabric than wool. It is softer, warmer and more lightweight than wool, but it is also more expensive. Both wool and cashmere fabrics have their own unique characteristics, and the choice between the two will depend on the use and the preference of the buyer.