PROJECTS

ELASTOMERIC HARD YARNS

In 2014, we challenged ourselves to continue leading the industry by reducing our dependence on elastane. Elastane provides stretch, but it holds moisture and increases odor problems; requires more energy by increasing dry time; wears out faster; and makes many fabrics difficult or impossible to recycle. Our new thread texturing techniques and polymer developments eliminated the need for elastane: those products perform better, last even longer—and can be completely recyclable. This innovation is revolutionary not just for us—it’s a future game-changer for the entire athletic apparel industry at a scale we haven’t seen elsewhere. We continue to challenge ourselves to engineer more materials that are 100% recyclable.