Comfy Cashmere Socks

Complete Guide to Cashmere Socks

admin — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 01:16:38 +0000

When it comes to socks, none are more comfortable or warm than ones made of cashmere. Cashmere socks are made from natural wool which has been knitted into a soft and fluffy texture. Unlike many synthetic materials which can be scratchy and thin, cashmere is designed by nature to be exceptionally soft and warm. It makes the perfect material for cold weather clothing because it packs the most heating ability into the least amount of material. Besides socks, other products like sweaters, beanie hats and gloves can be made.

A 100% cashmere product can be on the expensive side, but the cost is well worth it. Out of all the natural wools in the world, the wool taken from the Cashmere goat is of the highest quality. This material is used in the manufacture of many high end products seen in luxury stores. However, these products are rapidly becoming more accessible to the average consumer as more is being fiber is produced. Both mens and womens cashmere socks are available, including children too.

When shopping around for the perfect pair, it is important to consider the different blends that are available. Products labeled as pure cashmere consist of only cashmere wool and no fillers. If the price of a pure product is too expensive, there is another option. Partial blended socks consist of a certain percentage of cashmere blended with another material such as cotton or polyester. These socks closely match the softness and warmth of their pure counterparts and can be a viable option for people on a budget.

Clothing has a bad reputation for being a bad thing to give as a gift, but cashmere products are an exception. When the recipient opens their package to discover a pair of cashmere socks in their favorite color, they are sure to smile in delight. They may not understand exactly what cashmere is but once they try them on there will be no question as to their comfort.

Washing these socks should be done with care, as this material can become distorted if not treated properly. Start by putting the pair into a bucket or sink filled with warm water and mild detergent. Using your hands or a dull utensil, slowly stir the socks around in the water. This will work out any dirt particles and sweat which have gathered within. Make sure that you don’t twist or squeeze the socks, as this can cause permanent deformation. Set the socks onto a dry towel on a flat hard surface and let air dry. If needed you can press the socks in between two towels to remove excess moisture.

Origins and Characteristics of Cashmere

Cashmere wool is a natural fiber which is harvested by the Cashmere goat and several others. The modern day spelling of the word comes from the original word Kashmir. This soft and lightweight material has a fine texture and can be quite strong when woven. These characteristics make the wool an excellent insulating material when used in the manufacture of clothing. Unlike some materials which provide warmth at the cost of weight, cashmere achieves warmth without the bulk. These fibers are quite versatile and can be formed into varying thicknesses of yarn which form different thicknesses of fabric. Without being dyed, you can find cashmere in three natural colors of white, brown and grey.

Cashmere is generally defined as the soft, de-haired fibers obtained from the belly area of a goat. The thickness of each fiber should not exceed 19 microns. However, up to three percent of the product may contain fiber thicknesses up to 30 microns.

The sources of this prized material are quite modest in nature, coming from goats of Cashmere origin among others. The specific goats used in this process come from the sub-family of Caprinae in the family Bovidae. One of the features that make these animals special is that they produce dual fleece which consists of a fine under coat of fibers which are lined on the edges with a thicker coating called guard hair. This guard hair must be removed from the softer varieties before it can be considered for use in clothing. After the coarse hair has been removed, the hair can be processed further and dyed different colors. It can then be converted into yarn and woven into the products we see in stores such as cashmere socks.

The moulting season is the best time to gather cashmere from the goats because this is when they naturally shed their fibers. This process generally occurs sometime between March and May in the Northern Hemisphere. In some areas the goats generate a mix of coarse and down hair which must be removed manually using a brush. This brush pulls out clumps of fibers as it is drawn through the fleece. Washing and de-hairing is then done to achieve a high purity of true cashmere. The coarse hair is not without a purpose, however, as it can still be used in the manufacture of things like paint brushes, linings and other products.
China currently produces the most cashmere in the world, with Mongolia at second place. Areas like Pakistan, Turkey and India create substantial amounts but none compare to the two leaders. The worldwide production estimates include grease, coarse hairs and dirt which may still be present within the wool.

Cashmere can be dyed many colors and knitted into commonly used garments such as socks, sweaters, gloves and more. Some products are made from cutting woven cashmere into sections and then sewing them together.

Why Are Cashmere Socks So Comfortable?

admin — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 08:26:13 +0000

Chances are you’ve heard of cashmere before, but what exactly is it? What types of clothing is it used with and what makes it so comfortable? These are questions you should know when looking for garments made of cashmere materials such as cashmere socks and gloves.
Cashmere is positively one of the softest and most comfortable around. Its elegance and beauty ensures that it never goes out of style. The exceptional feel of it your feet, hands or neck is unparalleled in comfort and warmth. This amazing material actually comes from modest means. It is actually wool that is spun from a Himalayan mountain goat. Local workers high up in the Himalayan mountains harvest the cashmere fibers and process it all by hand. As if the remote location and hand processing weren’t enough to make this material expensive, it takes a single goat 4-5 years to make enough wool for a one garment. Most commonly bred in Iran, the goats can also be found in China, India, and Tibet.
Because of the extreme rarity and value of the wool, it is highly prized. Many people who own a garment such as a pair of gloves, a sweater or throw cherish and take great care of it. The rarity make it somewhat expensive, although the benefits are well worth it. Cashmere socks are very soft and comfortable, and provide excellent warming benefits. This makes them perfect for wearing around the house, during outings, or outdoor events. The snug feeling will keep you toasty no matter how cold it is.
Another factor that influences the price of the material is the location it is removed from the goat. Wool removed from the stomach and throat is softer and better quality than wool from other areas like the back and legs.
The versatility of it means that a variety of garment types can be made, including dresses, gloves, socks, and throws. There are even enthusiasts out there who collect many different types of clothing made out of this wonder material. As with any garment, proper cleaning is essential. Wash it in cool water with mild detergent. Make sure to handle it carefully and refrain from ringing or twisting it, resulting in deformation.
With a little more knowledge on this great fabric, you can be a more informed shopper, and look for cashmere socks that will fit your needs best!

Cashmere Socks – Durability And Comfort

admin — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 08:24:13 +0000

If you are a new owner of cashmere socks or are a prospective buyer, you may have concerns and questions about the durability and strength of this material. Cashmere is naturally very soft and comfortable, and often associated with luxury. The extreme comfort and warming benefits have resulted in higher prices for cashmere when compared to other materials. The higher price is well worth it, because this great material is actually more durable than one might think. The strength can depend on the type of blend you get, which I will explain.

Some people think that because cashmere is soft, it is also delicate and can tear easily from the friction caused by shoes and the floor. This is actually a misconception is most cases, as many manufacturers are using special techniques to improve the durability of these socks. Cashmere socks are prone to wear and tear just like any other sock, but there is a certain kind to buy if you want to improve their lifespan.

When shopping for these socks, look for cashmere blend socks. These types feature a blend of both natural materials and man-made synthetics. The synthetic fibers are very strong, and when weaved in with the natural fibers, makes the whole sock stronger and more resistant to tearing and wear. This is especially important if you are concerned about protecting your investment. If you have kids in the family, getting the blended type is a smart choice if they are active outdoors.
For people who want maximum comfort, you want to go with the natural fibers only. These socks are composed entirely of natural Cashmere materials, ensuring maximum softness and warming benefits. The only drawback is that these types are more prone to tearing, as the natural fibers are more delicate. However, if care is taken, you can enjoy the luxury of 100% natural cashmere.

The methods for washing both types of socks are the same, but take a little extra care when washing the natural kind. Washing tips also apply to socks made for all genders, such as womens and mens cashmere socks. To compliment your socks, consider other types of Cashmere garments too, like scarves for women and men. These are great for wintertime outings in the cold. With blended materials, the entire family can enjoy comfort with the peace of mind that comes from owning this durable fabric.
Do a little searching for the right cashmere sock for you, and you’ll be enjoying its luxurious feel in no time.

Washing Cashmere Socks For Long Life

admin — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 08:19:59 +0000

Before you wash your men’s, children’s or womens cashmere socks for the first time, it is important to keep a few important care tips in mind. Cashmere is a wonderful material, and with a little TLC, you can keep them durable for a good while.
You may have read the washing instructions label on the packaging or socks themselves to find out they are “dry clean only”. However, these socks can be washed just like any wool fiber garment. That might not mean a whole lot to you, so I’ll explain further. There are three things you want to avoid when washing these socks- heat, harsh detergents, and agitation. Any of these things can lead to your socks to shrink and deform, which is definitely not a good thing. Let’s talk about how to avoid these common mistakes when washing cashmere.
When using detergents, make sure it is of a mild variety, meaning that the chemicals are not too potent and harsh. It is also a good idea to dilute the detergent with some water. Baby shampoo is actually a great cleaner for this purpose, as it is a very mild soap. When diluting the soap, use cold water and a very small amount of soap. If your mix is creating quite a bit of bubbles, you have added too much soap and will need to either add more water or start over. You will be washing the socks by hand in this mixture, so be sure to make enough for the number of garments you are washing.
When you are done mixing, place the socks into the water and give it a gentle swirl to break up dirt and debris on the cashmere. When the cashmere is wet, is becomes much weaker, so take care when handling it. Allow the items to soak for half an hour in the water, and then drain out the water in the sink. Refill the container with fresh, cold water and proceed to remove the soap from the socks. This is done by dipping the socks in the fresh water and gently squeezing the material if needed. Avoid wringing or twisting the material because this can deform the socks.
To dry the cashmere socks, lay them flat on a towel and allow to dry flat. This important step ensures that the socks maintain their shape. Once dry, they are ready for use again. After several hand-washes, the cashmere material will become even more soft and comfortable.

Cashmere Socks – The Perfect Gift

admin — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 08:18:13 +0000

Buying a gift for someone during any occasion can be a time consuming and frustrating task, especially for those people who “have everything”. If you’re looking to ease the stress of gift giving, you should consider cashmere socks. The luxurious, comfortable feel and warming properties of cashmere material make it a no-brainer as a present. Children, men and women can all appreciate the unique comfort of these socks on their feet, and with the wide variety of colors and styles, you can be sure to find the perfect ones for anyone’s taste. While you’re at it, why not pick up a pair for yourself, too?
Cashmere is truly one of the softest materials used in clothing manufacture. The fibers are extremely fine, which result in a smooth woven finish that lacks uncomfortable protrusions or bulky parts that can scratch feet inside shoes. The warming properties keep feet warm with relatively little fabric. To get the level of warmth that cashmere provides in other fabrics, you would need big, bulky socks that can be uncomfortable and not as aesthetically appealing. There is an important factor to consider when buying cashmere socks as a gift. There are two kinds of weaves, one is a blend with cashmere mixed with other materials and the other is a pure cashmere weave. Socks with the pure weave will perform better with warmth and comfort, but may cost more. Getting the mixed varieties can work just fine, it simply depends on your preferences.

For the person who has everything, it is a good bet that they don’t have cashmere socks in their dresser drawer, or at least not more than one or two pairs. The great thing about gifting these socks is that there are so many styles and colors out there that you can find unique socks that match that person’s personality or style. The internet is a great place to find a huge selection and to shop around. When looking for the right size, simply compare the person’s shoe size with the recommended size label on the package and you can ensure the perfect fit.

Whether it’s Christmas, a birthday, or simply showing that you care, a cashmere sock set can brighten up anyone’s day and make them feel special. It’s funny to think that these amazing socks come from the hide of the Kashmir goat. Cashmere products aren’t just limited to socks, either. Cashmere is woven into every type of apparel imaginable, including thermal underwear, hats, scarves and gloves. Stock up on these socks during after winter sales for gifting next season!

Finding Quality Cashmere Socks

admin — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 08:15:09 +0000

A few simple tips can help you make sure you’re getting the “real deal” – authentic cashmere socks. Hesitation to buy a more elite product like cashmere clothing is understandable when you don’t have good information and tips. If you happen to find a great deal on cashmere apparel, but aren’t sure whether it is good quality, you might end up making a bad purchase and getting a sub-standard item.
The best tip you can use is searching for products with a brand name. Seeking out labeled, brand-name items ensure that you are getting quality. You can find many reputable companies on the internet, including companies like Burberry and Chanel. It might be cheaper to buy a generic or perhaps even unlabeled sock packs. There is just no way to tell what the materials consist of and whether it has any authentic wool inside or is an imitation. Purchasing name brand garments gives you the peace of mind you need when buying an elite item like this.
If you are still having trouble judging the quality of the socks, take a close look at the knitting. A fine weave with threads close together will last longer and is more durable. For extra strength, look for double-ply. Also look for excessive “pilling”, or small clumps of material attached to the surface. This can be hard to remove and increases the wear on the sock. Look at the packaging to determine if the sock is made of pure wool or a combination of wool and synthetic materials. Pure wool is softer, but less durable and more expensive. Synthetic blends are stronger but don’t have quite the softness or warmth. If you are buying a brand name product, the package should give this information on the front or back.
These rules for quality apply to both mens cashmere socks and women’s cashmere socks. Remember that paying a little more for a brand name is worth the money and will last longer. Enjoy your new purchase!