Everything You Need to Know About Mongolian Cashmere: The Soft Gold of the Steppes
The world’s finest cashmere
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Why Mongolian Cashmere is the Best Luxury Wool in the World
Not all cashmere is the same. While many countries produce it, Mongolian cashmere stands in a league of its own. Have you ever felt a cashmere sweater that’s just okay—soft but nothing special? Chances are, it was made from mixed fibers or a lower-quality blend.
But Mongolian cashmere? The moment you touch it, you can feel the difference. It’s finer, softer, and warmer than anything else.
Yet, Mongolian cashmere isn’t just a fabric—it’s a connection to the vast steppes, to the nomads who have herded goats for generations, and to the sustainable traditions that ensure the highest quality. This is the real story behind the world’s finest cashmere.
The History and Origins of Mongolian Cashmere: Why It’s the World’s Finest
Mongolia’s winters are brutal. Temperatures plummet below -40°C and the wind sweeps across the vast steppes with relentless force. But it’s precisely this extreme cold that makes Mongolian goats grow the world’s finest cashmere.
To survive, these goats develop an exceptionally soft, warm, and dense undercoat, making Mongolian cashmere softer and more insulating than any other in the world. Forbes highlights that Mongolian cashmere is widely regarded as the best because the harsh climate forces goats to grow tighter, finer fibers, resulting in superior warmth and softness compared to cashmere from other regions.
Mongolian nomadic herders have relied on these goats for their livelihoods for centuries. In return, the goats have adapted to the land, growing their unique, ultra-soft undercoat to endure freezing temperatures. Unlike industrialized cashmere farms in other countries, Mongolian herders follow a traditional, ethical approach. Every spring, when the weather warms, they gently hand-comb the undercoat—never shearing, never harming the goats.
This centuries-old practice ensures that Mongolian cashmere remains 100% natural, cruelty-free, and of the highest quality. The world recognizes Mongolia as the leader in premium cashmere, not only for its unmatched softness and warmth but also for its ethical and sustainable harvesting methods. Whether it’s high-end fashion brands or independent buyers, those who seek the world’s finest cashmere always turn to Mongolia.
What Makes Mongolian Cashmere the Best in the World?
Not all cashmere is the same. While many countries produce cashmere, Mongolian cashmere stands out in terms of quality, durability, and ethical sourcing. Here’s why:
- Finest Cashmere Fibers in the World: Mongolian cashmere fibers are as fine as 14 microns, making them incredibly soft and warm without bulkiness.
- Durability & Longevity: With proper care, 100% Mongolian cashmere doesn’t pill easily and can last for decades.
- Natural Cashmere Colors: Unlike mass-produced cashmere, Mongolian cashmere comes in pure natural shades—white, beige, grey, and brown—minimizing the need for chemical dyes.
- Ethical and Sustainable Cashmere Production: Unlike factory farming, Mongolian herders continue traditional, eco-friendly hand-combing methods, ensuring animal welfare and environmental sustainability.
I’ve seen firsthand how foreigners react when they experience Mongolian cashmere. Every time my friends visit Mongolia, their first stop is Gobi Cashmere. They stay in the store for hours, trying everything, feeling the softness, and learning about the quality. Once, they spent almost four hours inside and left with four bags full of cashmere. Even today, my friends still wear the Gobi Cashmere scarves and sweaters I gifted them in 2019, and every winter, when they travel to cold climates, they tell me how well the cashmere has held up and how much better it is compared to anything they’ve bought elsewhere.
Mongolian Cashmere vs. Other Cashmere: Myths vs. Reality
There’s a lot of misinformation out there about cashmere. Let’s set the record straight:
- Myth: "All cashmere is the same."
- Reality: Mass-produced cashmere from other countries often blends in synthetic fibers or lower-quality wool, while Mongolian cashmere is 100% pure and high-grade.
- Myth: "Cashmere is too delicate and high-maintenance."
- Reality: If properly cared for, Mongolian cashmere becomes softer with time and more durable than other wool fabrics.
- Myth: "Expensive cashmere means better quality."
- Reality: Some luxury brands mix Mongolian cashmere with lower-quality fibers but sell it at a premium price. Buying directly from Mongolian brands ensures you get 100% pure, high-quality cashmere.
- Myth: "Affordable cashmere is just as good as high-end cashmere."
- Reality: You’ve probably seen ‘cashmere’ sweaters at fast fashion stores like Zara or H&M, priced way cheaper than expected. But here’s the thing—wear them a few times, and you’ll notice little fuzz balls (pilling) forming, and suddenly, it’s not that soft anymore. That’s because those sweaters are often mixed with lower-quality fibers. Meanwhile, a Mongolian cashmere sweater can last years without looking worn out.
How to Take Care of Mongolian Cashmere and Make It Last Forever
I still have a Mongolian cashmere scarf from five years ago, and it’s just as soft as the day I bought it. Do you want yours to last that long? Just follow these simple care steps:
The best way to care for Mongolian cashmere is professional dry cleaning—it helps maintain the softness and structure, ensuring your cashmere lasts for decades. But let’s be honest, dry cleaning all the time isn’t always practical. If you prefer a straightforward, at-home approach, follow these simple steps to keep your cashmere in perfect condition:
- Hand wash in cold water using a mild detergent or a dedicated cashmere shampoo.
- Never wring or twist—gently press out excess water.
- Lay flat to dry on a clean towel; never hang (this stretches the fibers).
- Store cashmere properly by folding and keeping it in a breathable bag to prevent moth damage.
- Avoid frequent washing—cashmere doesn’t need it! Simply air it out after wearing it.
With the proper care, your Mongolian cashmere can stay just as soft and luxurious as the day you bought it for years to come.
What Cashmere Products Do Mongolian Brands Offer?
Mongolian brands offer a variety of cashmere products beyond just sweaters. Whether you're looking for fashion, home comfort, or travel accessories, there’s something for everyone.
- Cashmere scarves, hats, gloves, socks – Perfect for layering in cold weather.
- Cashmere sweaters, cardigans, coats – Classic, warm, and timeless pieces.
- Cashmere dresses and pants – Soft and breathable, great for any season.
- Cashmere-lined shoes – Some brands now offer luxurious shoes lined with soft cashmere for ultimate comfort.
- Cashmere blankets and throws – Ideal for adding warmth to your home.
- Cashmere robes and loungewear – Experience unmatched softness for relaxation.
- Cashmere cushions and bedding – Elegant and cozy additions to any living space.
- Cashmere travel sets – Lightweight yet warm essentials for long flights or road trips.
- Cashmere face masks – A stylish and breathable option for colder months.
You can visit Gobi Cashmere’s official website for a comprehensive view of their offerings. Additionally, Gobi Cashmere products are available through select retailers like Nordstrom.
Ulaanbaatar Cashmere Shopping Guide: Where to Buy the Best Mongolian Cashmere
Gobi Cashmere: The World's Largest Cashmere Store
Gobi Cashmere isn’t just a brand; it’s an institution in Mongolia. As the world’s largest cashmere store, it has earned its reputation as the go-to destination for locals and foreigners seeking premium Mongolian cashmere. Walking into the Gobi Cashmere store in Ulaanbaatar feels like stepping into a luxury showroom rather than just a retail store. The massive space features everything from classic cashmere sweaters to modern high-fashion pieces, all crafted with 100% Mongolian cashmere.
Gobi Cashmere stands out because of its unparalleled variety, competitive pricing, and high-quality production. While other high-end fashion brands sell Mongolian cashmere at premium prices, Gobi Cashmere offers affordable luxury straight from the source.
Not only is it a shopping destination, but it has also become a must-visit travel spot in Mongolia. Tourists from all over the world visit the flagship store to experience authentic Mongolian craftsmanship firsthand. With branches expanding internationally, including locations in Japan, the U.S., and Europe, Gobi Cashmere makes luxury Mongolian cashmere accessible worldwide.
📍 Location: Gobi Factory Store
📍 Location: Gobi Galleria Store
Other Mongolian Cashmere Brands Worth Exploring
While Gobi Cashmere is the most well-known, Mongolia has several other premium cashmere brands that uphold traditional craftsmanship, ethical sourcing, and sustainable production. If you're looking for more options, consider these top Mongolian cashmere brands:
- Goyo Cashmere – Known for its elegant designs and commitment to ethical sourcing, Goyo blends tradition with modern fashion to create high-quality cashmere pieces.
- Evseg Cashmere – A premium brand that maintains traditional craftsmanship while ensuring sustainability, offering a range of luxurious and eco-friendly cashmere products.
- Erdenet Cashmere – One of Mongolia’s leading cashmere manufacturers, Erdenet Cashmere is known for high-end production standards and export-quality cashmere, offering a balance between affordability and premium craftsmanship.
Each brand offers something unique, from minimalist and modern designs to heritage-inspired pieces. Whether you're shopping in Mongolia or browsing online, these brands ensure you're getting 100% pure Mongolian cashmere, crafted with the finest fibers in the world.
Cashmere Shopping at Ulaanbaatar Airport
If you didn’t have time to shop for cashmere in the city, don’t worry—Ulaanbaatar’s Chinggis Khaan International Airport has you covered. Before you board your flight, you can still pick up high-quality Mongolian cashmere without the hassle of worrying about luggage weight limits.
The airport features Goyol Cashmere, a well-known Mongolian brand specializing in knitted and woven cashmere products. Located on the second floor of the international departures area, the store opens two hours before international flights, making it a convenient last-minute shopping spot. Goyol Cashmere offers a variety of scarves, sweaters, coats, and accessories, ensuring travelers can take home authentic Mongolian cashmere. The store accepts cash, Visa, MasterCard, and mobile banking payments, making transactions smooth and easy.
Additionally, Gobi Cashmere products are available at the airport’s duty-free shop, giving travelers another option to purchase from Mongolia’s largest and most recognized cashmere brand. Whether you’re looking for a gift or a personal keepsake, the airport offers a stress-free cashmere shopping experience before your journey home.
Why You Should Buy 100% Mongolian Cashmere
Mongolian cashmere isn’t just another fabric—it’s a piece of Mongolia’s culture, tradition, and craftsmanship. Every strand of this luxury wool results from centuries-old herding practices, harsh winter survival, and sustainable hand-combing techniques passed down through generations.
When you choose 100% Mongolian cashmere, you’re not just buying a sweater or scarf but investing in unmatched quality, ethical production, and durability that outlasts fast fashion. Unlike synthetic blends or low-grade cashmere that pills after a few wears, pure Mongolian cashmere gets softer over time, keeps you warmer, and remains timeless in style.
So, next time you’re shopping for cashmere, ask yourself: Do you want a mass-produced piece that won’t last, or do you want to own a piece of Mongolia’s soul? Choose authenticity. Choose quality. Choose Mongolian cashmere.
Author: Marla