The Hoodie from PAKA: Alpaca This Top Everywhere

If Spring 2025 has been anything, it’s been all over the place. There were a lot (and I mean A LOT) of rain in March and April, but we got a few bursts that really brought through some sunshine…before dipping and back into more chilly temps. If you live in the PNW, you know what I’m talking about.

This sort of unpredictable weather (which is sometimes not even limited to Springtime calls for versatile layers that keep you comfortable in varying conditions. PAKA – a leader in natural alpaca fiber apparel – has a few options that really provide what we need in clothing during these times – breathability, quick drying (hello, PNW) and comfort.

See all our posts on PAKA here!

Most (all?) of us are familiar with Merino Wool fiber, but perhaps less of us with alpaca fiber. So why choose alpaca fiber?

• Soft: Royal alpaca fibers measure just 18 microns—softer than cashmere at 19 microns. This ultra-fine fiber provides exceptional softness without the itch (alpaca fiber is naturally hypoallergenic).
• Lightweight: Alpaca fiber is 3x lighter than traditional sheep’s wool.
• Thermoregulating: Thanks to its unique hollow-core fibers, alpaca fiber naturally adjusts to your body’s temperature.
• Moisture Wicking: Alpaca fiber wicks moisture away and dries fast, with a low moisture retention rate.
• Odor-Resistant: The keratin protein in alpaca fiber has natural antibacterial properties, ensuring your layers stay fresh longer between washes.

The Hoodie from PAKA is probably the staple in their lineup—and it’s easy to see why.

Here in the PNW, it’s sweater weather more often than not. Having well-made, functional tops isn’t just a luxury, it’s pretty much a necessity. Personally, I love having a go-to layer to throw on before a chilly morning run or race, and just as importantly, something that keeps me comfortable afterward. Bonus points if that same piece can take me straight from the trail to a brewery or winery. (Yes, that happens often a not uncommon amount of time).

The Paka Hoodie checks all those boxes. It’s made with a blend of royal alpaca fiber (the softest, highest-quality alpaca available) and nylon. The result is a layer that’s both cozy and durable—basically everything you want in an everyday hoodie.

As mentioned, alpaca wool brings some serious performance benefits to the table: it’s naturally thermoregulating, antibacterial, and three times lighter than merino wool. That means it stays dry, odor-resistant, and low-key fresh all day—so when you’re shoulder-to-shoulder at the wine tasting bar, no one’s the wiser that you just came from a few muddy miles of hiking (assuming you change your shorts and shoes…).

There are also thoughtful touches in the design, like the flexible knit along the sides and hood, which allow for easy movement. It fits great, feels even better, and has been getting a lot of wear lately. Honestly, I can already tell it’s going to be one of those staples that only gets better with time.

PAKA also has a few other options that are designed to be a little more functional for running or pure outdoor activities, such as their Aire Long Sleeve baselayer or their Trail 3/4 Crew Socks.