Mohair is a unique and luxurious fiber that is known for its luster, strength, and smooth texture. Here's an overview of mohair wool:
Mohair is derived from the fleece of the Angora goat. Not to be confused with the Angora rabbit, which produces Angora wool, the Angora goat originates from the Ankara region in Turkey, which gives the animal its name.
Luster: One of the defining features of mohair is its natural sheen, which gives fabrics made from this fiber a radiant appearance.
Strength: Mohair is notably strong and resilient for a natural fiber, which contributes to its durability in various applications.
Elasticity: The fiber is naturally elastic, which allows it to maintain shape and resist wrinkles.
Smoothness: Mohair fibers have fewer scales on their surface compared to sheep's wool, making mohair smoother and less itchy.
Insulation: While it's lightweight, mohair has excellent insulating properties, making it warm in cold conditions and breathable in warmer climates.
Due to its unique properties, mohair is often used in premium clothing items such as suits, sweaters, scarves, and socks.
It's also commonly found in upholstery, draperies, carpets, and other home textiles due to its durability and lustrous appearance.
Mohair requires gentle care to maintain its appearance and feel. It's often recommended to hand wash mohair items in cold water using a mild detergent and to lay them flat to dry.
Avoid wringing or twisting mohair garments as this can distort their shape.
While the Angora goat originates from Turkey, South Africa has become one of the leading producers of mohair globally. Lesotho, neighboring South Africa, also has a burgeoning mohair industry. The U.S., particularly Texas, also has a significant mohair production.
As with many animal-derived products, there have been concerns about the ethical treatment of Angora goats in mohair farms. Some farms may practice mulesing or other harmful practices.
In response, there have been moves within the industry to ensure ethical and sustainable production. If considering purchasing mohair products, it's worthwhile to investigate the sourcing and ensure that it's from farms that adhere to ethical and humane treatment standards.
In conclusion, mohair is a luxurious and versatile fiber that's sought after for its unique characteristics. Its luster, resilience, and smooth texture make it a preferred choice for various textiles and garments.