Lenzing has collaborated with FLOCUS™, Marchi&Fildi, Studio MLR, and PYRATEX® on a new sustainable fabric design, which can be used as a unique and sustainable alternative for functional wear.

The double-layer construction consists of a blend of TENCEL™ branded modal fibers with Eco Color technology and kapok fibers on the inside and 100% TENCEL™ Modal fibers on the outside. This natural duo complements each other perfectly. While the hollow kapok fibers have hydrophobic properties due to their natural wax film, the hydrophilic TENCEL™ Modal fibers with Eco Color technology do not require subsequent dyeing and are therefore an extremely resource-saving technology for embedding color pigments during fiber production, with significant life cycle savings of water and energy from cradle to finished fabric. In a harmonic interaction, TENCEL™ Modal fibers wick the moisture to the outer layer, distribute it, and hence contribute to a better drying performance.

Drying performance is an especially useful feature in active sportswear such as outdoor and sports lifestyle, including T-shirts, shirts, sweaters and even the upper part of shoes. The TENCEL™ brand’s latest fiber collaboration creates a 100% cellulose mono-material with exceptional moisture management properties, perfectly designed for these types of products.

In addition, the combination of using kapok fibers and TENCEL™ Modal fibers with Eco Color technology adds a good-looking appearance and a great touch to the fabric. As both fibers originate from nature and do not need subsequent treatments, they can be easily biodegraded at the end of life. The pioneering fabric gained “100% Jury Like” recognition at the Performance Days and was a finalist in the ‘Game Changers’ category at the Danish Design Award 2021. As it sets new standards in the field of biodegradable performance materials, this was the first time a fabric has been recognized for its function and innovation at the Danish Design Awards.

Collaboration from all parties is key to creating an impact. With the growing awareness of the importance of sustainability in all industries, a new playing field for innovative eco-friendly products has opened up. In particular, outdoor brands and their community are very close to nature and early adopters for innovative and sustainable product offerings. Our collaboration brings us one step closer to exploring more natural fiber solutions for functional textiles.