The primary fabric made from goat hair is mohair.
Mohair is a luxurious natural fiber known for its durability and distinctive luster, derived specifically from the fleece of the Angora goat. This remarkable fiber has been cherished for centuries for its unique qualities that make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from soft apparel to robust home furnishings.
Understanding Mohair
Mohair is renowned for its strength, elasticity, and brilliant sheen, often described as having a "halo" effect. Unlike many other wools, mohair fibers are smoother, which contributes to its lustrous appearance and its resistance to felting. It is one of the oldest textile fibers in use, valued for its warmth, light weight, and dye-absorption properties.
The Angora Goat: Source of Mohair
Mohair is exclusively shorn from Angora goats, a specific breed that originated in the Ankara region of Turkey (formerly Angora).
- Fiber Production: Adult Angora goats are typically shorn twice a year, yielding between 5 to 8 kilograms (11 to 18 pounds) of mohair fleece annually. The process of shearing is similar to that of sheep and is essential for the health and well-being of the animal.
- Sustainable Sourcing: Responsible mohair production prioritizes animal welfare, ensuring that goats are shorn safely and humanely, contributing to a sustainable fiber industry. For more information on Angora goats, you can visit the Mohair Council of America.
Mohair vs. Angora Wool: A Key Distinction
It's crucial not to confuse mohair with Angora wool, despite the similar-sounding names. While mohair comes from Angora goats, Angora wool is an entirely different material derived from Angora rabbits. When you see "Angora" on a clothing label, it almost always refers to fiber from the Angora rabbit, not the Angora goat. The production of Angora wool from rabbits can sometimes involve controversial methods related to animal welfare, which is a significant ethical difference from the shearing of Angora goats for mohair.
Below is a comparison to highlight the differences:
| Feature | Mohair | Angora Wool |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Angora Goat | Angora Rabbit (e.g., French, German, English Angora breeds) |
| Texture | Smooth, lustrous, slightly crisp, can have a "halo" effect | Extremely soft, fluffy, fine, often sheds easily |
| Durability | Very durable, resilient, resists creasing | Less durable, delicate, requires gentle handling |
| Luster | High natural sheen, reflects light well | Matte finish, known for its extreme softness rather than shine |
| Warmth | Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, good insulator | Exceptionally warm, significantly warmer than sheep's wool by weight |
| Production | Obtained by shearing the goats, typically twice a year | Obtained by plucking (often done by hand) or shearing the rabbits; animal welfare concerns have been raised by various organizations for some production methods. Learn more about Angora rabbits. |
Unique Properties and Benefits of Mohair
Mohair's unique characteristics make it a sought-after fiber in various industries:
- Exceptional Luster: Mohair fibers possess a natural sheen due to their smooth surface, allowing them to take dye exceptionally well, resulting in vibrant, long-lasting colors. This luster is a defining feature that distinguishes it from other wools.
- Durability and Resilience: As one of the strongest natural fibers, mohair is highly resistant to stretching, shrinking, and creasing. It holds its shape remarkably well and can withstand considerable wear and tear.
- Warmth Without Weight: The hollow structure of mohair fibers makes it an excellent insulator, providing significant warmth without feeling heavy. It helps regulate body temperature, making it comfortable in both cool and moderately warm conditions.
- Moisture-Wicking: Mohair effectively wicks moisture away from the skin, enhancing comfort by keeping the wearer dry.
- Hypoallergenic Qualities: Due to its smooth fiber scales, mohair is generally less irritating to sensitive skin compared to some other animal fibers.
- Non-Felting: Unlike sheep's wool, mohair has a smoother fiber surface, which makes it less prone to felting or matting, simplifying its care and maintenance.
Common Uses of Mohair Fabric
Mohair's versatility and desirable properties allow it to be used in numerous products:
- Apparel: Used in luxury sweaters, scarves, suits, coats, and even socks, valued for its warmth, softness, and elegant drape.
- Home Furnishings: Popular for upholstery fabrics on furniture, decorative throws, blankets, and cushions due to its durability, stain resistance, and aesthetic appeal.
- Carpets and Rugs: Its resilience and ability to retain color make it an excellent choice for durable, long-lasting floor coverings.
- Crafts and Specialty Items: Employed in doll hair, realistic wigs, art yarns, and various textile art forms, leveraging its unique texture and luster.
- Industrial Applications: Historically used in certain industrial textiles where strength and heat resistance were required.
Caring for Mohair Products
To maintain the beauty and longevity of mohair items, proper care is essential:
- Gentle Cleaning: For most garments, hand washing in cool water with a mild, wool-specific detergent is recommended. Gently squeeze out excess water; avoid twisting or wringing.
- Drying: Always lay mohair items flat on a clean towel to air dry, away from direct heat or sunlight, to prevent stretching, distortion, or damage to the fibers.
- Storage: Store mohair in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Protect from moths by using cedar, lavender, or other natural repellents, or by placing in breathable garment bags.
Mohair stands out as a distinguished natural fiber, offering a unique blend of elegance, strength, and comfort, all sourced from the unique Angora goat. Its distinctive qualities ensure its continued popularity in both fashion and home decor. For more detailed information on mohair, refer to reputable sources like Britannica.
