Why Mongolian Herders Hand Comb Cashmere and Not Shear

March 19, 2020

Ariunzul Enkhbaatar

Head of Sustainable Development Division

Ariunzul Enkhbaatar

Head of Sustainable Development Division

As the Head of the Sustainable Development Division at GOBI Cashmere, Ariunzul is committed to upholding responsible and ethical practices throughout every stage of cashmere production. She spearheads initiatives in environmental protection, social responsibility, and ethical governance while collaborating closely with herders to promote sustainable sourcing. Deeply passionate about Mongolian culture and the livelihoods of the herders who make cashmere possible, she shares stories of their traditions, the artistry behind cashmere garments, and how GOBI Cashmere remains dedicated to sustainability.

Author Profile

What Is Hand-Combing?

Hand-combing is the traditional method herders use to collect cashmere. When goats naturally shed their soft undercoat in spring, herders gently comb it out instead of cutting the hair. This keeps goats healthy, comfortable, and stress-free. Because the rough outer hairs stay intact, the fibers remain cleaner, softer, and of higher quality. It is a patient process, but the result is cruelty-free, premium cashmere prized worldwide.

HOW MONGOLIAN HERDERS HAND COMB CASHMERE | GOBI CASHMERE

Hand-Combing vs. Shearing

Some producers shear goats, cutting off both the fine undercoat and the coarse outer hair. While faster, this method can leave goats exposed to Mongolia’s chilly spring, causing stress and discomfort. It also mixes rough hair with the soft fibers, lowering the quality. By contrast, hand-combing takes only the undercoat at the right time, ensuring goats stay protected while producing superior cashmere.

Combing by hand also gives herders valuable time to check on the well-being of their livestock. The process prevents hair entangling, crust build-up, and the spread of parasites. It helps goats avoid heat exhaustion during the warmer months and supports the growth of a fresh coat for the next winter. Although shearing machines may be more efficient for humans, they are often stressful for goats and compromise the overall quality of the fibers.

Why Hand-Combing Matters

Humane Care

Hand-combing is timed with the goats’ natural cycle, helping them stay cool in summer and ensuring their coats remain healthy. It is a gentle, cruelty-free way to care for livestock that herders depend on.

Superior Fiber Quality

Because hand-combing avoids rough outer hairs, the collected fibers are finer, lighter, and smoother. This makes them ideal for creating garments that are soft to the touch yet strong and long-lasting.

Environmental Responsibility

Unlike mechanical shearing, hand-combing supports sustainable herding. It minimizes stress on goats and reduces environmental impact, preserving both the animals and the fragile grasslands of Mongolia.

GOBI’s Commitment to Ethical Cashmere

At GOBI, we work side by side with nomadic herders to ensure cashmere is produced responsibly. Every step—from goat to finished garment—is carefully monitored. While fibers are processed in modern facilities, traditional practices remain at the core. Our products carry the Pure Mongolian Cashmere mark and certifications from the Sustainable Fibre Alliance, proving our dedication to quality, ethics, and sustainability.

By investing in long-term partnerships with herders, GOBI not only helps to safeguard animal welfare but also supports local communities who depend on cashmere for their livelihoods. Training programs, sustainable grazing initiatives, and transparent supply chains ensure that both people and nature thrive together. This holistic approach allows us to set a global standard for how luxury can be produced responsibly—without compromising on quality or ethics.

Mongolian cashmere is more than a fabric; it is the result of harmony between people, animals, and nature. Hand-combing reflects centuries of knowledge, respect for goats, and care for the land. By supporting these practices, we protect a nomadic culture while ensuring that the world enjoys the finest, softest cashmere.

When you choose hand-combed Mongolian cashmere, you are not just purchasing clothing—you are helping to preserve traditions, protect the environment, and sustain the livelihoods of nomadic families. Each piece becomes part of a bigger story: one of resilience, heritage, and responsibility. This is what makes Mongolian cashmere truly special—luxurious in quality and meaningful in origin.

FAQs

Why do herders in Mongolia hand‑comb cashmere goats?

Herders in Mongolia hand‑comb cashmere goats to gently collect the soft undercoat without hurting them. Combing cashmere goats keeps their outer coat intact, so they stay warm and healthy. It is done when the goats naturally shed, which reduces stress. Hand‑combing gives cleaner and softer fibers than shearing. This traditional method helps herders get high-quality cashmere while taking care of the goats.

What are the benefits of hand combing cashmere vs shearing?

The benefits of hand‑combing vs shearing cashmere are about both quality and the goats’ well-being. Hand‑combing only takes the soft undercoat, leaving the outer coat to protect the goats. This makes the cashmere cleaner, softer, and nicer than sheared fibers. It is gentle on the goats and reduces stress. Overall, hand‑combing gives better cashmere while keeping the goats healthy.

What are sustainable Mongolian cashmere production methods?

Sustainable Mongolian cashmere means caring for the goats and the land. Herders use hand‑combing to gently collect the soft undercoat without hurting the goats. They move the goats to different pastures to stop overgrazing and protect nature. Factories process the fibers in eco‑friendly ways that save energy and reduce waste. These steps make high-quality, cruelty-free cashmere while protecting the environment. This is how sustainable Mongolian cashmere is made.

What animal welfare benefits come from hand‑combed cashmere?

Hand‑combed cashmere is called cruelty-free cashmere because it is safe for the goats. Only the soft undercoat is collected, so the goats are not hurt. Their outer coat stays on, keeping them warm and protected. Hand‑combing is gentle and done at the right time, so the goats are not stressed. This way, the goats stay healthy and comfortable while giving high-quality cashmere.

Is hand-combed cashmere more sustainable?

Yes, hand-comb cashmere is more sustainable because it is gentle on the goats and the environment. By using hand-comb cashmere methods, herders only take the soft undercoat and leave the outer coat intact, keeping the goats healthy. This traditional approach avoids overgrazing and supports nomadic grazing practices. Factories processing hand-combed fibers also use eco-friendly methods that reduce waste and energy use. Overall, hand-comb cashmere helps produce high-quality fibers while protecting animals and the land.

How does this method affect the quality of cashmere?

Hand‑combing makes cashmere better by taking only the soft cashmere undercoat. This keeps the fibers clean and free from rough hairs. The cashmere becomes softer, warmer, and stronger. Pure Mongolian cashmere from hand‑combing feels smooth and luxurious. This method makes sure the fibers are of the best quality.