When it comes to premium sock materials, mohair, cashmere, and merino wool stand out as natural champions. But which fibre is best for your feet — especially when comfort, durability, and performance are key?
Let’s break down the differences so you can make the right choice for your feet, whether you're walking the Pennine Way or just trying to stay comfortable at work.
What is Mohair?
Mohair comes from the Angora goat and is celebrated for its lustrous sheen, strength, and resilience. Unlike standard wool, mohair has a silky feel, natural elasticity, and exceptional moisture-wicking properties. It also resists felting and holds its shape brilliantly, even after repeated wear and washing.
At Capricorn Mohair Socks, we use high-grade mohair because it’s a natural high-performance fibre — ideal for walkers, runners, and those on their feet all day. It’s no surprise that our customers come back year after year, often saying: “They’re the only socks I wear now.”
What is Cashmere?
Cashmere is a luxurious natural fibre taken from the soft undercoat of the Cashmere goat. It’s famous for its cloud-like softness and insulating warmth, making it a favourite for scarves, jumpers, and winter layers.
However, that luxury comes at a cost — particularly when it comes to durability.
While good quality cashmere can last for years with careful handling, lower-grade fibres or improper care can lead to rapid wear and loss of shape. Even premium cashmere is vulnerable in high-friction areas like heels and toes. Washing, drying, and storage all influence how well it holds up over time.
Cashmere socks may feel like a treat, but they’re not built for distance. They’re best suited for lounging indoors, not long hikes or everyday wear. If you need a sock that keeps its shape, wicks away moisture, and won’t wear thin, mohair is a far better choice.
What is Merino Wool?
Merino wool is a premium natural fibre sourced from the Merino sheep, known for its incredibly fine and soft wool. These sheep are raised in varied climates across Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, and South Africa, where their coats have evolved to adapt to both hot and cold conditions. This results in wool that’s breathable, temperature-regulating, and excellent at wicking moisture away from the skin.
Merino is also naturally antibacterial and wrinkle-resistant, which helps garments stay fresher between washes — a bonus for eco-conscious consumers looking to reduce water use.
Our founder, Jon Monks, knows Merino wool inside out. Long before Capricorn Mohair Socks was born, Jon worked in Australia as a Jackaroo — a kind of working shepherd — where he spent a year tending Merino sheep and learning about natural fibres firsthand. That experience sparked his lifelong interest in wool and textiles, and ultimately led him to discover the unmatched potential of mohair.
While Merino is a strong performer and ideal for base layers and lightweight garments, its fibres are more prone to pilling and wear in high-friction areas. As a sock material, it’s good — but mohair outlasts it in both durability and performance under pressure.
The Sock Showdown: Mohair vs Cashmere vs Merino
| Feature | Mohair | Cashmere | Merino Wool |
|---|---|---|---|
| Softness | Smooth and silky | Ultra-soft, luxurious | Soft and fine |
| Durability | Exceptionally hard-wearing | Low – prone to wear | Moderate – can pill with friction |
| Moisture Management | Excellent moisture-wicking | Moderate | Good |
| Blister Prevention | Naturally smooth, reduces friction | Poor – too delicate | Fair – better than cotton |
| Best Use | Hiking, walking, everyday wear | Lounging, light winter use | Daily wear, light activity |
| Eco-Credentials | Renewable, biodegradable, minimal waste | Renewable, but high-impact production | Renewable, widely farmed |
Why We Choose Mohair
At Capricorn Mohair Socks, we’ve chosen mohair because it offers the best of all worlds — performance, comfort, and sustainability. It keeps your feet dry, fresh, and blister-free no matter how far you walk. It’s strong enough for long days outdoors, yet soft enough to be your go-to sock for daily wear.
Final Verdict: Mohair is the Best All-Rounder
- Cashmere offers luxurious softness but lacks staying power.
- Merino is versatile and breathable but less hard-wearing.
- Mohair combines strength, softness, and breathability — making it the ultimate material for socks that go the distance.
If you’ve never tried mohair socks, your feet are in for a treat.
Explore our full Capricorn Mohair Socks range — and experience the fibre that outperforms the rest.
Further reading
1. The science behind Mohair and it's properties
2. The history of socks
