Textiles are more than just fashion in the athleisure or sports segment. Fabrics, fibers and accessories such as zippers form the basis of modern functional wear for outdoor or sports activities. The technologies and functionalities of textiles specially catered for sport are playing an increasing role from the base layer, second layer to the outer layer.

Among all preferred qualities of textiles, companies have been placing more emphasis on raw materials and efficient production processes, from upcycling natural and synthetic yarns to reduced water and energy consumption during production processes. This smart approach is not only appealing, but also offers high performance fabrics that are aligned with the consumer preference for sustainable products.

Embracing the mega trend of sustainability in the textile industry, Yadong (Changzhou) Science & Technology Co., Ltd (Yadong) adopted TENCEL™ branded Lyocell fiber with REFIBRA™ technology under the TENCEL™ Active brand in their Twill fabric production. Gentle on skin, breathable and made of sustainable materials, Yadong’s Twill fabric was named as the Best Product in the second layer category during the recent ISPO Textrends for 2020 Spring/Summer season.

REFIBRA™ technology involves upcycling a substantial proportion of cotton scraps e.g. from garment production, in addition to wood pulp, where the raw material is transformed to produce new virgin TENCEL™ branded Lyocell fibers for the production of fabrics and garments that enable sports lovers to feel pleasantly cool and dry, experience natural comfort and versatility.

With 50 million tons of clothing being thrown as trash every year and much of it destined for landfill, REFIBRA™ technology is Lenzing’s first step to contribute to the circular economy in the textile industry. REFIBRA™ technology based on the lyocell production process developed by Lenzing has been internationally recognized for its environmentally responsible closed-loop production process.

Active people often spend time enjoying the ‘great outdoors’, and take advantage of all that nature has to offer. They want to minimize their impact on the environment so that future generations can enjoy those same outdoor activities. Lenzing shares this commitment to sustainability through production of cellulose fibers which are derived from renewable wood sources following the stringent guidelines of the Lenzing Wood and Pulp Policy. Fibers used in the TENCEL™ Active brand are produced via responsible production processes and are compostable and biodegradable, providing consumers with the peace of mind that are contributing to a sustainable future.