Qiviutikuidut

Qiviutikuidut refers to the downy undercoat of the muskox. This soft, insulating fiber is highly prized for its warmth and fineness, making it a luxurious material for clothing and accessories. Muskoxen, native to the Arctic regions of North America and Greenland, possess this dense undercoat to survive harsh winter conditions. The qiviut is shed naturally by the animals in the spring, and it is then gathered by hand or through combing.

The fiber is known for being exceptionally warm, even when wet, and it is much lighter than sheep's wool. It is also hypoallergenic, as it does not contain lanolin. Qiviut is typically processed into yarn and used to create items such as hats, scarves, mittens, and sweaters. Due to the labor-intensive process of collection and processing, as well as the limited supply, qiviut products are generally expensive. Harvesting is often done in a way that does not harm the animals, contributing to sustainable practices in the Arctic.