Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/1518432
greater thermal comfort for outdoor 'stop-go' sports, including hiking, cycling and rock climbing in both activity and rest phases. Wool's unique natural structure allows the fiber to react to changes in body temperature, ensuring the wearer maintains an optimal microclimate in dynamic environments. Garments tested as part of the study included 100% wool, cotton, viscose, and polyester of similar fabric weight and thickness. To investigate the study's robustness, each fabric was tested using 'sweating mannequins' and then humans. e results highlighted the ability of the fabric to breathe and dry quickly; the study demonstrates the premier natural capabilities of wool to maintain enhanced comfort and thermal sensation compared to other fabrics tested. Collaboration is crucial, with many brands from different sectors teaming up to create the perfect product and pooling their resources and know-how. One such initiative is e Mindful Project, a collaboration between the premium seamless supplier for technical sport, Mia Group, Protective, a German-based sports apparel manufacturer and Flocus, a company that has brought natural fiber kapok to the forefront of the textile field. e result is seamless apparel with a silky touch against the skin. n textileinsight.com Spring 2024 ~ Textile Insight • 9 Performance Award Winner e fabric in the two-layer category impressed the jury with its reliance on an entirely new source for PET. Long Advance's Carbon Capture yarn was explicitly used to reduce PET consumption through bottles. Recycled PET membranes provide waterproofing and breathability with a performance of 30k/20k. e material also feels very so. Eco Performance Award Winner: BenQ is committed to further promoting a circular economy. It's innovative solution is converting electronic waste into PET membranes and yarns. Combining electronics and textiles to produce high-quality materials with striking designs is unique. e fabric is made from a single material, facilitating easy recycling and supports environmental sustainability. Flocus natural fiber kapok PERFORMANCE DAYS AWARDS WINNERS ANNOUNCED Bristex Co., Ltd. Manteco We have come a long way since the emergence of recycled polyester, not just through the much-improved hand feel, but also through new innovations and resource-saving attributes. Awards source: https://www.performancedays.com/loop/trends-forum/awards.html