Textile Insight

Chad Kelly, eVent fabrics president, explains, "Regulations are a strong focus not only because you have to comply, but in footwear, waterproof performance is critical, and sustain- ability is increasingly important." He adds that corporate initiatives and a desire to produce cleaner product is also top of the list. eVent fabrics portfolio includes eVent StormST, formerly eVentBIO, a plant-based membrane technology that uses sustainable materials to provide all-weather protection and performance. Materials solution provider Polartec has eliminated PFAS in its DWR (durable water repellent) treatments across its line of performance fabrics. Polartec Power Shield Pro is a weather protection fabric that is made from renewable, non-GMO, plant-based nylon and a non-PFAS membrane. ere is no loss of performance from a water repellency or durability standpoint, according to the company. Challenging, But Necessary, Change Durability and manufacturing ability are major hurdles brands face when phasing out conventional tech and integrating modern eco alternatives. Footwear brings its own list of issues; Construction is complicated, there are different materials and different processes involved, as well as long lead times and the need for performance that can stand up to harsh terrain and extreme weather conditions. Cirql, a subsidiary of OrthoLite, recently introduced Cirql Zero, an industrially compostable, biodegradable foam inno- vation. "Footwear brands have been searching for a trusted, fully biodegradable midsole material for many years; it's the last piece of the puzzle," explains Matt waites, VP/General Manager of Cirql. "e midsole has always been a challenge because brands need the performance properties to go with the compostability of a biodegradable midsole." Cirql Zero features manufacturing versatility. According to the company, the midsole foam can be produced using supercritical foaming (SCF) technology in an autoclave pro- cess. is flexibility ensures that Cirql Zero is accessible to a broad range of manufacturers, streamlining its integration into existing production processes. Beyond material concerns, another challenge is consumer engagement. At a recent visit to the Arc'Teryx Alpha retail store in New York City, textile savvy sales associates noted that their customers are keen on the Norvan LD 3 light hiker, but not because of its ePE Gore-Tex membrane technology. I was told the shoe sells best based on its style and functionality and because it's an Arc'Teryx product. When I asked about it being PFAS-free and how that impacts consumer decision-making, I was told, "basically, consumers don't care." is isn't surprising. "e industry is driving the PFAS-free trend, not the consumer," shared eVent's Chad Kelly. "And that's okay; the industry needs to fuel innovation and change." n textileinsight.com Winter 2025 ~ Textile Insight • 9 Women's Scrambler II mid hiker with StormST technology. Arcus 2 GTX waterproof running shoe with 24 percent recycled material. Rapid XT GTX women's approach shoe, made with non-PFAS ePE membrane. XERO SHOES ICEBUG SCARPA

• Cover