And why is mohair so incredibly warm and soft...?

The Exceptional Warmth of Mohair

Mohair is renowned for its exceptional warmth capabilities. This luxurious fiber, derived from the hair of the Angora goat, possesses a unique combination of physical and chemical properties that contribute to its superior insulating characteristics. 

The Structure of Mohair Fiber

Fiber Diameter and Length: Mohair fibers are relatively fine, with diameters typically ranging from 25 to 45 microns. The fiber length can vary from 10 to 15 centimeters. This fine diameter and considerable length contribute to the softness and uniformity of the yarn produced from mohair, enhancing its insulating properties.

Scales and Smoothness: Unlike wool, which has a pronounced scaly surface, mohair fibers have smoother scales. This smoother surface reduces friction between fibers, allowing them to trap more air and create a better insulating barrier. The reduced friction also gives mohair its characteristic luster and sheen.

Hollow Core: Mohair fibers possess a semi-hollow core, which plays a crucial role in their insulating ability. This hollow structure allows the fiber to trap air, creating an effective thermal barrier that retains heat close to the body. The air trapped within the fibers acts as an insulator, reducing heat loss and maintaining warmth.

Chemical Composition and Properties

Keratin Structure: Mohair, like other animal fibers, is composed primarily of keratin, a fibrous protein. Keratin's molecular structure provides strength and elasticity, which are essential for the durability and resilience of mohair products. The unique arrangement of keratin molecules in mohair enhances its ability to trap air and retain heat.

Natural Oils: Mohair contains natural oils, such as lanolin, which provide several benefits. These oils contribute to the fiber's softness and help maintain its insulating properties by preventing moisture absorption. Moisture can reduce the effectiveness of insulation by conducting heat away from the body. The natural oils in mohair fibers help to repel moisture, ensuring the fiber remains dry and effective as an insulator.

Moisture-Wicking: Despite its moisture-repellent properties, mohair also exhibits excellent moisture-wicking capabilities. This means it can draw moisture away from the skin and release it into the air, keeping the wearer dry and comfortable. This property is particularly beneficial in maintaining warmth, as dry fibers retain heat more effectively than damp ones.

Thermal Performance Metrics

Thermal Overall Grade (TOG): The Thermal Overall Grade (TOG) is a measure of a textile's thermal insulation properties. Mohair products typically achieve high TOG ratings, indicating their superior ability to retain heat. The TOG value is influenced by several factors, including fiber diameter, yarn structure, and fabric density. Mohair's fine diameter, smooth scales, and semi-hollow core all contribute to its high TOG rating, making it an excellent insulator.

Heat Retention: Mohair fibers excel at heat retention due to their ability to trap air within their semi-hollow cores and between the smooth, closely packed fibers. This trapped air acts as an insulating layer, reducing heat loss and maintaining a stable, warm microclimate close to the skin.

Thermal Conductivity: Thermal conductivity refers to a material's ability to conduct heat. Lower thermal conductivity indicates better insulation. Mohair has low thermal conductivity, meaning it does not easily transfer heat away from the body. This property, combined with its ability to trap air, makes mohair highly effective at retaining warmth.

Practical Applications and Benefits

Garments and Accessories: Mohair's exceptional warmth makes it an ideal material for winter garments and accessories, such as sweaters, scarves, hats, and gloves. The fiber's softness, durability, and insulating properties ensure that these items provide both comfort and protection against the cold.

Home Textiles: In addition to apparel, mohair is also used in home textiles, including blankets, throws, and upholstery. Mohair blankets, in particular, are prized for their warmth and lightweight feel, offering cozy comfort without the bulk.

Technical and Performance Wear: Mohair's moisture-wicking and insulating properties make it suitable for technical and performance wear, especially in cold-weather conditions. Athletes and outdoor enthusiasts can benefit from mohair's ability to maintain warmth while managing moisture, ensuring comfort and performance.

The warmth capabilities of mohair are the result of its unique structural and chemical properties. The fine diameter, smooth scales, semi-hollow core, and natural oils all contribute to mohair's ability to trap air, repel moisture, and retain heat. These properties are reflected in its high TOG ratings and low thermal conductivity, making mohair an exceptional insulator. Whether used in garments, home textiles, or performance wear, mohair provides unparalleled warmth and comfort, solidifying its status as a premium fiber in the textile industry.