Cashmere is a sought-after and expensive material, often used in high-end clothing and textile products. It has a combination of unique properties that have earned cashmere its reputation as a luxury material and justifies its premium price. These properties are why cashmere is the material of choice for Jet&Bo travel accessories.
Softness 
Cashmere is known for its softness, producing a luxury feel. Cashmere is from the soft fleecy underlayer of a cashmere goat. These fibers are an extremely fine diameter (less than 19 microns, comparatively a human hair is 60 - 120 microns) which is why cashmere feels so soft. Also, cashmere is a high-loft fiber (air within the fiber) which translates into a plush, luxurious fabric with a silky feel. When properly cared for, cashmere gets softer with age.
Insulation
Cashmere is up to 8 times more insulating than regular sheep’s wool, providing superior insulation. This is due to the harsh climate the cashmere goats live in, with extreme cold weather conditions.
Lightness
Cashmere is a lightweight fabric in comparison to the warmth it offers. Cashmere clothing is never bulky, which makes it easy to travel with – it won’t take up too much space in your suitcase.
Wrinkle Resistance 
Cashmere doesn’t wrinkle, making it an ideal fabric for travel clothing when you won’t always have an iron on hand.
Elegance
Cashmere drapes beautifully, and due to its lightweight nature and resistance to wrinkles, it’s a fabric that always looks elegant and flattering.
Comfort
Cashmere keeps you warm without adding bulk and has natural stretch, so you can move easily while wearing it.
Moisture Wicking
Cashmere has a high moisture content and as the humidity changes in the air so does its insulation, making it comfortable in all climates, even warm ones. The fibers have water-repellent exteriors and the interior attracts water. This means it draws moisture, such as sweat, away from the body.
Not Scratchy
Many people avoid wool due to the scratchy feeling against the skin. However, cashmere is soft and feels great against the skin as the fibers are much finer than wool and are spun tightly to produce a smooth, soft texture.
Breathable
Unlike synthetic fibers which can leave you hot and sweaty, cashmere allows your body to breathe which helps regulate temperature.
Luxurious 
Cashmere is considered a luxury material and the best of all natural fibers. This is not only because of how amazing it feels against the skin but also because of the price. The higher cost of cashmere is due to the effort involved in collecting cashmere fibers, as it must be done by hand during spring molting season, resulting in a relatively small yield and scarcity. It takes at least three cashmere goats to produce enough fiber in a year to create a clothing item such as a sweater.
Fire Resistant 
Cashmere has natural fire-resistant properties and when it is exposed to fire, while it will smolder, it will not melt onto the skin and can self–extinguish once the source of the flame has gone out.
Hypoallergenic 
Cashmere has hypoallergenic properties making it a desirable choice for baby clothes, blankets and those with allergies.
Smart Investment
When cashmere is cared for correctly, it can last a lifetime. It is a timeless fabric and classic styles will always be on-trend.
The benefits of cashmere are numerous. If you are hesitant to splurge on cashmere, consider the above benefits and weigh your options. Will the alternative function as well? Look as good? Last as long?
Further reading:
How to Identify Quality Cashmere
Cashmere Ply & Gauge Explained
Easy Tests to Determine Quality Cashmere
How to Care for Your Cashmere Items
Jet&Bo stocks a range of luxurious cashmere clothing and travel accessories:
