Care + Maintenance
Take care of the gear that takes care of your feet.
Simple care keeps your Altera alpaca socks performing at their best — so you can get more miles, more comfort, and more out of every pair.
Care better. Go further.The Altera Care System
No hand washing. No complicated routine.
1.Turn Inside Out
Protects the outer fibers and keeps them looking great, longer.
2.Wash Cold
Use cold water and a gentle cycle to maintain natural fibers and performance.
3.No Bleach
Keep it natural. Bleach and harsh chemicals can damage fibers and reduce lifespan.
4.Dry Low
Tumble dry on low heat or air dry. High heat can damage the fibers.
Details that go furtherBuilt for repeat wear
Proper care helps protect the fit, construction and natural performance of your Altera alpaca socks — so they’re ready for whatever’s next.
Lasting performance
Natural fibers
More miles ahead
How often should you wash?
Wash When Needed
Based on use, moisture and conditions. Trips, tough workouts or warm weather may call for a wash sooner.
Air Them Out
When appropriate, airing them out between wears can help keep them fresh and extend time between washes.
What to avoid
Bleach
Avoid bleach at all costs.
Pulling Loose Yarn
Don’t pull loose yarn. It can damage the knit structure.
Harsh Chemicals
Fabric softeners and harsh detergents can damage natural fibers.
High Heat
High heat can shrink and weaken the construction.
Before the first wash
If something does not look right, do not trim or pull yarn. Contact us first.
Frequently Asked Questions
More questions? Visit ourHelp Center →
How do I care for my socks?
Turn them inside out, wash cold with like colors, no bleach. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat. You don’t need to wash after every wear.
How often do I need to wash them?
Not as often as you’d think. Alpaca fiber is naturally antimicrobial and lanolin-free, which means it resists odor without treating. Most Altera pairs can be worn multiple times between washes — a real difference from cotton or merino.
Can I machine wash Altera socks?
Yes. Turn them inside out, use cold water on a gentle cycle, and skip the bleach and fabric softener.
Can they go in the dryer?
Yes, on low heat. Air drying is even better if you have the time and the space — it preserves the fibers longer and there’s no shrinkage risk.
Do I need to wash them after every wear?
Not necessarily. Alpaca fiber is naturally antimicrobial and lanolin-free, so most pairs can be worn multiple times between washes. Air them out between wears when you can.
Why alpaca instead of merino or cotton?
Alpaca fiber has a hollow-core, so it is lightweight and breathable. It also regulates temperature in both directions — not just cold - it’s naturally antimicrobial and resists odor. The full side-by-side is on the How It Outperforms page.
What if a pair wears out anyway?
That’s what the lifetime warranty is for. If any pair ever wears out — even years down the road — file a warranty claim and we’ll send a replacement. No expiration.
What if I see a loose yarn or pulled thread?
Don’t pull it — that’s the fastest way to unravel the knit structure. Snip flush with a small scissors if needed, or contact us first if you’re unsure.
How long should a pair last?
With proper care, years — not seasons. Alpaca fiber is naturally durable and resistant to wear. That said, life happens: rough terrain, boots that don’t fit right, aggressive drying cycles. If a pair wears out sooner than expected, our lifetime warranty has you covered.