Alpaca and Burlap Felt Insole

Abstract

This invention is an insole which consists of four layers: one layer of 100% alpaca fiber, one layer of burlap, and two more layers of 100% alpaca fiber. All layers are joined by densely needle felting them together. The burlap is sandwiched between the felted alpaca layers. The insoles are made in four sizes: small, medium, large, and extra large. While additional and/or alternate sizes could be created, each size is designed to allow approximately ½-inch of excess insole around the heel and both sides of the foot. This allows the insole to cup the foot slightly if the wearer's shoe or boot allows space for this.

1 . Alpaca is known to be warmer than wool. The insoles are therefore effective in insulating the foot from cold floors and weather. 
     
     
         2 . Sizing the insoles to allow them to roll up the sides and back of the foot slightly adds further insulation by preventing the infiltration of cold air as the foot flexes. 
     
     
         3 . Densely felting the insole prevents its compression with wear. The denseness of the felt ensures it will continue to cushion and insulate the foot over time. 
     
     
         4 . Dense felting of the insole ensures that the insole will not felt to the wearer's sock as a looser felt would be prone to do. 
     
     
         5 . The layer of woven burlap stabilizes the shape of the insole so that it does not bunch up when worn or lose its shape when laundered.