Italian warp knit seamless (WKS) specialist Cifra presented at ISPO this week, unveiling its innovative capsule collection that boasts technological features designed to meet the needs of the sports world, which is increasingly oriented towards ethical products with a low environmental impact that can offer high-level performance.

The line of clothing, produced with WKS technology, is made with the bio-based yarn Evo by Fulgar, which is said to guarantee maximum comfort and unique performance, and the unique qualities of Lycra elastane fibre. Yarns are created through a special process which, through an exclusive knitted structure, enables the production of seamless garments which do not come apart in the event of piercing or tearing, the manufacturer explains.

“It is a great opportunity for us to see the full potential of our Evo yarn with the best, exclusive technology by Cifra, a company that like us is distinguished by its tradition and innovation, with which we have been collaborating for 10 years,” commented Alan Garosi, Marketing Manager of Fulgar.

Collaboration

Cifra’s warp knitting seamless (WKS) technology allows the creation of garments, which have no uncomfortable seams where the garment comes in contact with the skin – both on upper body and legs. It also allows a high reduction of waste, compared to the tradition production of cut-and-sew garments. The combination with the bio-based yarn Evo by Fulgar is said to enhance its value in terms of sustainability, making it possible to produce high-performance, green and fully traceable garments.

“Innovation for us is a constant commitment. Through continual investment in research, we have fine-tuned our WKS technology, which is completed by the selection of outstanding supply chain partners such as Fulgar, which has always guaranteed us high standards with cutting-edge technological solutions, such as Evo,” commented Cesare Citterio, CEO of Cifra.

WKS technology

“WKS is innovative technology, incorporating the high productivity of the weave and the flexibility of the flat mesh shape. It is suited to the production of high-performance technical clothing and is ideal for sportswear since it supports muscles and allows the body to breathe. This technology can produce infinite design possibilities: the piezo-jacquard system enables the creation of a great variety of stitches,” Cifra says.

“One advantage is that the yarn does not run if cut (because every yarn in the warp creates knots, while in the weft the yarns are inlaid one above the other). Another benefit is that the edges can be left unfinished, making the fabric more comfortable and giving a second skin feeling. In addition, the finished fabric can be machine washed with a lower risk of shrinkage.”

Evo by Fulgar

An innovative bio-based yarn developed after years of research and study of the highest engineering standards, Evo by Fulgar is made from castor oil – a ‘not for food’ plant that grows spontaneously, Fulgar explains. It is a renewable resource that does not require high amounts of water and does not use up arable land that can be used for food uses.

According to the manufacturer, suitable for any textile application and ideal for the sportswear, Evo by Fulgar is ultra-light, super stretch and extremely breathable, dries quickly and does not need ironing, has thermal properties and natural bacteriostatic. This whole range of distinctive values and benefits aims to ensure maximum comfort and performance, while retaining an intense eco-awareness.

www.wks-cifra.com