Alpaca on the green: A match made in heaven!

When you think of the greatest legends of golf, what do you see? Jack Nicklaus striding down the fairway? A black-and-white snapshot of a young Arnold Palmer teeing up? Whatever image springs to mind, we bet we know what they're wearing: that classic, V-neck cardigan sweater. They came in bold, bright colors, with just four or five simple buttons down the front. We're sure you remember the unassuming, gentlemanly style - but did you know those sweaters were made from alpaca?

The alpaca golf cardigan has been a staple of high-end golf apparel since the late '50s, and for good reason. Each alpaca fiber is incredibly fine - only half the width of a human hair - yet has a hollow core to provide unparalleled insulation. That means an alpaca sweater can protect you against the harshest March breezes, without the bulk or itch of a traditional wool sweater. The look is refined and classic without a hint of fuss, and every golfer from the "Golden Bear" to Bing Crosby had one. In fact, Sports Illustrated reports that Frank Sinatra had the charming habit of selecting dozens of alpaca sweaters as gifts from the pro shop (in his own choice of garish colors, of course), with instructions that they were not to be accepted as returns!

Thankfully, alpaca golf sweaters are no longer exclusive to Rat Pack establishments and expensive pro shops. Since alpaca are native to South America, Alpaca Direct imports top-quality sweaters directly from Peru, so you pay a fraction of what Arnie did back in the '60s. Our classic golf cardigans and vests are equally well-suited for the third hole or the third course at the club, keeping you comfortable, warm and stylish. Plus, we've just begun our largest inventory clearance sale ever, with dozens of styles up to 50 percent off just in time for spring's first tee time.

The legends knew that golfing and alpaca was a match made in heaven - so why stop with sweaters? Keep your feet warm and dry on the fairway with our new Dahlgren Walking socks, engineered with golfers in mind! Each sock has wicking rings to keep moisture moving up and out of the shoe, preventing discomfort and blisters. The carefully selected blend of merino wool, nylon and alpaca provides optimal insulation, cushion and durability with each step. Available in a variety of colors in both men's and women's sizes, these socks are ideal for any walker or athlete looking for a true performance sock.

Alpaca Direct is a direct merchant of high quality yarn, apparel and jewelry. We stock a full line of fiber art accessories, from handcrafted needles and hooks to spindles and spinning wheels. Our carefully curated boutique selection also includes Peruvian alpaca sweaters, hand-loomed lace scarves, performance alpaca socks, pima cotton pajamas, cuddly alpaca teddy bears and unique international jewelry.

Our building is handicap accessible, with ample parking and is easy to find. We are located on Hayden Avenue, just two blocks west of Highway 95 at 1016 W. Hayden Ave. in Hayden.

Our Alpaca fiber experts are on call 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Visit us at 1016 W. Hayden Ave. or online at www.AlpacaDirect.com - your local destination for luxury yarn, apparel and gifts. "Like" us on Facebook for exclusive coupons, product spotlights and news!