All About Our Salpaka Alpaca Wool Socks

I’ve always loved how luscious and luxurious alpaca socks feel to wear, but I had yet to knit a pair of alpaca wool socks that was more than just a bed sock. I wanted to design the ultimate soft and cosy socks, which you would wear at home (in bed, or beside the fire) but also to keep your feet warm while out and about. 

I designed our Salpacka alpaca wool socks with comfort and warmth in mind, developing a unique yarn of Yorkshire-spun alpaca wool with merino wool for a two-in-one sock. The softness of the alpaca blends with the durability of the merino wool to create an everyday sock that keeps your feet warm and comfortable during the colder months – and the properties of the merino wool mean that these socks will also cool your feet down if they become too warm.

The process of making these socks is a slow one, but it is a labour of love. They’re handmade in a family-owned factory in Derbyshire. First, I twist the yarns to create our signature GS marls. We then knit the socks using traditional techniques in our contrast stripe and intarsia argyle designs. During this process, we pay a great deal of care and attention to the fit and quality of each pair of socks, ensuring that they hold their shape. Finally, the socks are finished by hand and gently washed, to ensure that the yarn is lofty and light while also bringing out the softness of the fibres.

Our British-made Salpaka socks also offer a design-led alternative to everyday winter socks. Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you want to compromise on style! I love how these socks add a pop of colour and design flair to an everyday outfit. There are two designs: a bold double stripe and a contemporary take on traditional argyle. Both of the styles show off the subtle beauty of the marl yarn while bringing together creativity and tradition with years of knowledge. I love how this simple sock gives heritage techniques and natural fibres a joyful GS twist. The choice of colours is bold and fun – whether you prefer a bold pink and red colour clash or a softer lilac or blue pastel. Whether they are peeking over the top of your favourite boots or keeping your feet warm and toasty at home, they add such vibrancy to your outfit. 

There’s a reason the Salpaca alpaca and merino wool socks are our best selling style! They’re versatile, practical, warm – and are such a lovely, subtle way to add a splash of joy to your everyday outfit. What’s more, they’re a great example of British made design: a unique sock created from the fusion of heritage techniques, in-depth knowledge of yarns and a passion for colour and design. 

Discover the collection here.