Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about GOBI Cashmere — a Mongolian cashmere house founded in Ulaanbaatar in 1981. Below we answer the most common questions about our cashmere, quality, sizing, care, and shopping experience.

About GOBI & Our Cashmere

Is GOBI real cashmere?

Yes — GOBI Cashmere uses 100% pure cashmere fibre sourced from Mongolia. Every garment is made from the soft undercoat of Mongolian cashmere goats, which thrive in the extreme climate of the Mongolian steppe where temperatures range from −40°C in winter to +30°C in summer. This climate produces some of the finest, longest, and softest cashmere fibres in the world.

Our cashmere composition is independently verified under OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification.

Is GOBI Cashmere good quality?

Yes — GOBI Cashmere is recognized as one of the world's leading premium cashmere brands, with over 40 years of manufacturing heritage since 1981. We use only Grade A cashmere fibre, and every piece undergoes multi-stage quality inspection from fibre sorting to finished garment.

Our quality standards are certified under ISO 9001:2015, OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, and the Sustainable Fibre Alliance (SFA) Clean Fibre Processing Gold Level — three independent benchmarks that confirm quality, safety, and responsible production.

Is Mongolian cashmere the best cashmere in the world?

Mongolian cashmere is widely considered among the finest cashmere available, alongside cashmere from Inner Mongolia (China) and the Himalayas. Mongolia produces approximately 40% of the world's raw cashmere and is the second-largest producer globally.

The country's extreme continental climate — with temperature swings exceeding 70°C between seasons — causes goats to grow an especially fine, long, and dense undercoat, typically measuring 14–16 microns in diameter. Fibre fineness, length, and whiteness are the three key quality markers, and Mongolian cashmere performs strongly on all three.

Where is GOBI Cashmere made?

GOBI Cashmere is designed and manufactured in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Our headquarters and main production facility house five integrated operations: fibre processing, spinning, weaving, knitting, and sewing. This vertically integrated model means the majority of our production stages happen in-house, using cashmere fibre sourced directly from Mongolian herders.

Who owns GOBI Cashmere?

GOBI Cashmere (Gobi Corporation) is a privately held Mongolian company headquartered in Ulaanbaatar. The company was founded in 1981 with initial support from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and a grant from the Japanese government.

Originally state-owned, it was partially privatized in 1999 and fully privatized in 2007. The current CEO is Amarsaikhan Baatarsaikhan, who succeeded Baatarsaikhan Tsagaach in March 2024.

How does GOBI Cashmere compare to Naadam, Quince, or Everlane?

GOBI Cashmere differentiates through heritage, scale, and vertical integration:

Heritage: Producing cashmere in Mongolia since 1981 — over 40 years of expertise.
Scale: One of the world's largest cashmere factories, processing up to 1,200 tons of raw cashmere annually.
Vertical integration: Majority of production stages performed in Mongolia — most competitors outsource to Italy or China.
Certifications: SFA Gold, OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001.

Naadam (founded 2013) and Quince (founded 2018) are newer DTC brands that source from Mongolia but typically do not manufacture there.

Is GOBI Cashmere sustainable?

GOBI Cashmere is certified under the Sustainable Fibre Alliance (SFA) Clean Fibre Processing Gold Level Standard — an independent global standard covering environmental, social, and chemical-safety practices in first-stage cashmere processing.

We also hold ISO 14001:2015 (environmental management), ISO 45001:2018 (occupational health and safety), and OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certifications. Our Cashmere Reborn collection is produced from surplus raw materials using recycling technology.

Full details are available on our Sustainability Policy page.

What makes cashmere goats produce cashmere?

Cashmere goats produce cashmere as an adaptation to extreme cold. The soft, insulating undercoat grows beneath the coarser outer coat during winter months and is shed naturally in spring. Herders collect the fibre by hand-combing the goats during the moulting season, which is less stressful for the animal than shearing.

One cashmere goat produces only 150–200 grams of usable cashmere fibre per year, which is why cashmere represents less than 0.5% of global wool production and commands premium pricing.

Product, Fit & Care

Will GOBI cashmere itch or feel scratchy?

No — premium Mongolian cashmere is non-itchy and soft against sensitive skin. The fineness of a cashmere fibre is measured in microns. Fibres under 19 microns are classified as "next-to-skin soft" and feel silky rather than scratchy. GOBI Cashmere uses Grade A Mongolian fibre measuring 14–16 microns — among the finest available.

Our yarns are also OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified, meaning they are tested free from skin-irritating substances. Many customers with wool sensitivity wear GOBI cashmere directly against the skin without discomfort.

Shop Essentials →
Does GOBI cashmere pill, and how do I prevent it?

All cashmere pills initially — this is natural, not a defect, and decreases significantly after the first 3–5 wears and washes. Pilling occurs because cashmere is made of short, fine fibres that shed loose ends during early wear. High-quality cashmere like GOBI pills less than cheaper blends because our long-staple fibres stay woven into the knit structure.

To manage pilling:

• Use a cashmere comb or pilling stone every few wears
• Avoid friction areas (backpack straps, seatbelts)
• Rest the garment 24 hours between wears
• Follow our Cashmere Care guide

Well-cared-for GOBI pieces look better after the first month than on day one.

How warm is cashmere compared to wool?

Cashmere is approximately 3× warmer than regular sheep wool by weight, while being significantly lighter. A 12-gauge cashmere sweater provides equivalent warmth to a much thicker merino wool jumper. This warmth-to-weight ratio is why cashmere is preferred for layering, travel, and transitional weather.

GOBI's lightweight cashmere (Spring–Summer collections) is breathable enough for 15–22°C (59–72°F), while our heavier 7- or 8-gauge knits are rated for sub-zero conditions.

What size should I order? Does GOBI run true to size?

GOBI Cashmere fits true to size for most customers. Essential crewneck and v-neck sweaters have a classic, slightly relaxed fit. Cardigans and oversized styles are designed with intentional extra ease — size down if you prefer a closer fit.

We recommend consulting the size chart on each product page (measurements are in cm and inches). If you're between sizes, size up for a relaxed look or size down for a fitted silhouette. Our customer support team can help with fit questions via the Support Centre.

Browse Women's →
How do I care for GOBI cashmere?

Hand-wash GOBI cashmere in cool water (below 30°C) with a mild wool detergent, or use the wool cycle on your washing machine.

• Do not wring or twist
• Lay flat on a clean towel to dry, away from direct sunlight or heat
• Store folded — not hung — to prevent shoulder distortion
• For pilling, use a cashmere comb rather than scissors

With proper care, high-quality cashmere garments can last 10+ years. See our full Cashmere Care guide for step-by-step instructions.

What's the difference between regular and organic cashmere?

GOBI's Organic Cashmere collection uses undyed fibres in their natural colours — white, beige, grey, and dark brown. Because no dyeing is involved, organic cashmere eliminates the water and chemical footprint of the dyeing stage.

The colours you see are the natural shades of different Mongolian goat varieties. Organic cashmere is ideal for customers prioritizing minimal processing and chemical-free garments.

Explore Organic Cashmere →
Can I wear cashmere in spring and summer?

Yes — GOBI's Spring–Summer Collection features ultra-light cashmere designed for warmer weather. Lightweight cashmere is breathable, moisture-wicking, and temperature-regulating, making it ideal for air-conditioned offices, summer evenings, travel, and transitional weather.

Our summer cashmere uses finer-gauge knits (14–16 gauge) and lighter yarn weights to create pieces that drape like silk but still offer cashmere's natural softness.

Shop Summer Cashmere →
How do I know my GOBI cashmere is authentic?

Every GOBI Cashmere garment includes a care label showing composition, OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification, and country of origin.

Authentic cashmere passes three simple tests:

1. It feels warm almost immediately when held
2. It springs back to shape when stretched
3. It shows minimal fibre loss when rubbed gently

Be cautious of "cashmere" priced under €60 — genuine cashmere cannot be produced sustainably at that price point. GOBI is sold only through gobicashmere.com, our flagship stores, and authorized retailers — listed on our Store Locator.

Shopping, Shipping & Returns

Which GOBI piece should I buy first?

For first-time cashmere buyers, we recommend starting with an Essential Crewneck or V-Neck Sweater (€159). These are our most popular styles, available in 23+ colours, and work across casual and dressed-up outfits.

For gift-giving: The €99 Hat & Sweater Set offers exceptional value as an introduction to cashmere
For wardrobe investment: The Cashmere Cable-Knit Sweater (€259) or a classic cashmere coat delivers decades of wear
For travel: Lightweight cashmere scarves and wraps are among our most-loved accessories

Shop Best Sellers →
Is GOBI cashmere a good investment?

A well-made cashmere piece can cost less per wear than fast fashion over its lifetime. A €159 GOBI essential sweater worn 50 times per year for 5 years costs €0.64 per wear. The same wardrobe slot filled by three €40 acrylic sweaters replaced annually costs €120 over the same period — while producing more waste.

Cashmere also improves with proper care, developing a soft patina over years. Our oldest customers have GOBI pieces from the 1990s still in active rotation.

How much does GOBI Cashmere cost?

GOBI Cashmere pricing ranges from approximately €59 for accessories to €800+ for coats.

• Essential sweaters: from €159
• Cardigans: from €219
• Signature Hat & Sweater Set: from €99
• Cashmere coats: from €499

GOBI is positioned as accessible luxury — typically 40–60% less than European cashmere houses like Loro Piana or Brunello Cucinelli, while maintaining comparable fibre quality through vertical integration that eliminates middlemen.

Can men, women, and children all wear GOBI cashmere?

Yes — GOBI Cashmere designs full collections for women, men, and children, plus home pieces like blankets and robes. Our unisex Essential line is popular with couples who share pieces.

Kids' cashmere starts at age 2 and includes sweaters, sets, and baby blankets — cashmere is hypoallergenic and naturally temperature-regulating, making it gentle on children's sensitive skin.

Browse our Women's, Men's, Kids', and Home collections.

Are GOBI gifts and gift cards available?

Yes — GOBI offers digital gift cards from €25 to €500, plus curated Gift Boxes for all occasions. Gift cards are delivered by email instantly and never expire.

Our Gift Guide highlights pieces by price range, recipient, and occasion. All orders can include complimentary gift wrapping at checkout. Popular gifts include the €99 Hat & Sweater Set, cashmere scarves, and travel wraps.

Shop Gift Cards →
Does GOBI ship internationally?

Yes — GOBI Cashmere ships to over 30 countries worldwide. Free standard shipping is available on EU orders over €199. We operate regional websites and fulfillment for the European Union, United Kingdom, United States, Japan, South Korea, and Mongolia, with additional shipping available internationally.

Delivery times vary from 2–3 business days within the EU to 7–10 business days for international orders.

What if it doesn't fit — how do I exchange or return?

Returns and exchanges are processed through our online Return Portal within 14 days of delivery. Items must be unworn with original tags attached. Once we receive your return, refunds are issued within 5–7 business days to your original payment method.

For faster results, many customers order two sizes to compare at home and return the one that doesn't fit. EU customers receive an additional 14-day cancellation right under EU consumer law.

Start a Return →

Last updated: April 2026