YakLux is committed to quality and uses the soft, Khangai yak, a material that reflects the rich traditions and sustainable practices of the indigenous herders of Zavkhan region in western Mongolia. This material embodies both cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Through the research conducted by the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, it was found that yak down is a material that combines high heat retention and breathability, making it comfortable to wear the products all year round.
In tests comparing it with wool and cashmere, it was found to have heat retention about 30% higher than wool and the same as cashmere. It is 130% more breathable than cashmere and is less likely to pill.
This extremely valuable material, of which only 100 – 500g can be obtained per year from one yak, is said to be safe for people with wool allergies as it does not itch, so it can be worn safely by small children and people with sensitive skin.
Yaks, thriving in Mongolia’s rugged terrains, are truly remarkable animals central to the nomadic way of life. Their adaptability to extreme altitudes and harsh climates makes them invaluable to the indigenous people of western Mongolia.
Mongolian herders demonstrate profound respect for their yaks as they respectful relationship with nature. They traditionally used hand-plucking techniques to gather hair, but in recent times, they have adopted gentler methods, such as combing, to harvest the soft undercoat. This process not only ensures minimal stress for the animals but also maintains the quality of the raw hair. Harvesting is done just once a year, aligning with the natural shedding cycle, ensuring sustainability and preserving the health of the yaks.
These practices highlight the deep harmony between the Mongolian people and their environment, a testament to the wisdom of their nomadic traditions.
Exceptional warmth with natural breathability, comfortable to wear year-round.
Naturally hypoallergenic, lanolin-free, and ultra-soft against sensitive skin.
Stronger than cashmere and resistant to pilling. Built to endure for years.
Ethically combed yak wool with regenerative, cruelty-free origins.
We do not shear. Once a year, aligning with the natural spring shedding cycle, herders practice “combing”—a gentle, hand-plucking technique that harvests the loose winter undercoat without causing stress to the animal.
Yaks are “light-footed” grazers. Unlike goats that tear grass by the roots causing desertification, yaks graze the top of the steppe, allowing the pasture to regenerate and maintaining the delicate ecological balance of the Khangai Mountains.
We source directly from the indigenous herders of Zavkhan to ensure that the value of this “Brown Gold” goes back to them, protecting their herds and their heritage. Additionally, 5% of every purchase directly funds rural education, herder assistance, and environmental conservation in Mongolia.
Discover how premium Mongolian yak wool compares to traditional goat cashmere in softness, warmth, sustainability, durability, and luxury appeal.
| Feature | Yak Wool (YakLux) | Goat Cashmere |
|---|---|---|
| Softness | Luxuriously soft — virtually indistinguishable from cashmere | Exceptionally soft and silky (the benchmark) |
| Warmth | Equal to cashmere, with a lighter, airier feel | Warm and lightweight |
| Breathability | Naturally more breathable — up to 1.6× cashmere | Breathable and comfortable |
| Odor Resistance | Naturally odor-resistant | Good, but less pronounced |
| Durability | Stronger fiber, more resistant to pilling | Delicate; prone to pilling over time |
| Sustainability | Regenerative grazing; combed, not sheared | Varies; goat grazing can drive desertification |
| Rarity | Only 300–500g per yak per year | Established global supply |
| Market Position | The emerging luxury fiber — modern, functional luxury | The established luxury standard |
Yes. Yak wool is prized for its natural insulation. Independent testing shows it to be roughly 30% warmer than sheep’s wool, which is one reason it is favored for cold-weather clothing.
Yak wool is luxuriously soft and, in premium grades, virtually indistinguishable from cashmere. Both fibers sit in the ultra-fine range under 20 microns. Softness depends on the fiber grade, processing, and garment construction.
High-quality yak wool is gentle against the skin and naturally free of lanolin, the compound that triggers irritation in many people sensitive to sheep’s wool, making it a comfortable choice for delicate skin.
Yes. As a combed, seasonally shed fiber sourced through responsible herding communities, yak wool is one of the lower-impact natural luxury fibers available. Unlike goat grazing, yak grazing does not drive desertification.
Yak wool is low-maintenance by nature. Thanks to its odor resistance, it needs washing far less often than cashmere. Simply air it out between wears. When washing is needed, hand wash in cold water with a gentle detergent and lay flat to dry.
YakLux sources its yak wool from the Zavkhan region of western Mongolia, in keeping with the area’s indigenous herding traditions.
Nature Offers This Gift Sparingly.
