FAQs

Alpaca wool is warmer than merino (up to 3x warmer for same weight), breathable, odor-resistant, and hypoallergenic due to lack of lanolin.

Karu uses blends of alpaca wool, not 100%, to enhance performance and durability.

Our blend is 45% BABY  ALPACA / 40% ACRYLIC / 13% NYLON / 2% SPANDEX

The term “Baby Alpaca” does not refer to the age of the animal, but rather to a quality classification based on the thickness (micron count) of the fiber, according to textile industry technical standards, such as the Peruvian Technical Standard NTP 231.370 (Alpaca Fiber – Classification).

The fiber known as Baby Alpaca has an average diameter between 20 and 23 microns, which makes it soft to the touch and highly valued for fine garments.

This quality may come from the first shearing of young alpacas, but also from adult alpacas with superior genetics that produce fibers within that range.

The parts of the animal that typically yield this type of fiber are the back, flanks, and neck, where the fiber is finer and more uniform.

Yes. Alpaca wool lacks lanolin, making it hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin.

Alpaca wool is about 3 times warmer than merino wool of the same weight due to its hollow fibers, which trap heat effectively.

Yes. Alpaca socks wick moisture and are antimicrobial, preventing bacteria and odor buildup.

Karu socks are built to last and there should be no obvious degrading with repeated washing as long as the washing instructions are followed. (see care & washing later on)

Yes, please see our sizing chart here.

Karu socks come in 5 styles: No Show, Ankle, Quarter Crew, Crew, and Boot. All are designed for outdoor/winter use.

• Sizes follow EU sizing: S (38-40.5), M (41-42.5), L (43-45.5).

Our sizing chart here https://karusocks.myshopify.com/pages/sizing-chart  gives sizing in EU, UK and US sizes

The moisture-wicking and seamless, cushioned design helps prevent blisters during extended wear.

Yes. They are designed for cold-weather and outdoor activities with superior warmth and durability.

Yes. Karu socks stay fresh longer and remain comfortable over multiple days due to temperature regulation and antimicrobial properties.

Care Instructions: To extend the life of your socks and preserve their softness:

• Machine wash cold, gentle cycle
• Use mild detergent
• Wash inside out to reduce pilling
• Do not bleach or use fabric softeners
• Air dry flat or line dry – avoid tumble drying
• Do not iron

Pro Tip: For multi-day treks, simply air out between wears. Alpaca wool’s natural odor resistance and quick-dry properties keep your socks fresher for longer.

If washed as instructed, your socks should keep their shape.

Some pilling is possible over time, especially without proper care. Washing cold, inside out, and drying flat will help minimize pilling.

Additional tips:

• Use a mesh laundry bag to reduce friction in the wash.
• Avoid fabric softeners, as they can coat fibers and reduce moisture-wicking.
• Wash with similar soft fabrics, not jeans or towels.

Karu socks are made in Peru. Wool is sourced from Peru.

Payments are accepted through Shopify Payments, US PayPal, and possibly Klarna/Mollie.

Gift cards - we have this functionality and we are planning to use mid-long term, but not for the first few months (let’s say Jun-Jul)

Discount codes - we have this functionality, but we are already displaying our best offers and promotions on our website, so no need for discount codes

No, multiple discounts and promotions cannot be combined

• Different discounts are offered for more products (up to 40% for 8+ products) - please check them on our website, but we are not offering wholesale discounts or bulk pricing

Yes. Alpaca socks are superior to cotton or synthetic ones due to warmth, breathability, durability, and hypoallergenic properties.

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