"Hithlain" appears to have been produced from the bark of "mallorn" trees and was possibly used to make elven-cloaks.The cloaks that the Fellowship received from the Elves were thought to be magic, and although the Elves did not confirm this (Galadriel herself seemed confused about Sam's use of the word when explaining about her mirror), they said that the cloaks are a great aid in keeping out of the sight of unfriendly eyes; this was confirmed by the subsequent experiences of the Fellowship.