Through Repreve, Unifi has transformed more than 13 billion plastic bottles into recycled fibre. © Unifi

Continuing its commitment to sustainable innovation, Unifi, a leading textile solutions provider and an innovator in manufacturing synthetic and recycled performance fibres, will launch three new product offerings at Outdoor Retailer Snow Show 2019, from 30 January to 1 February, in Denver, CO.

Focused on consumer demands for recycled products, Unifi is introducing TruFlexx sustainable, engineered stretch fibre made with Repreve, TruClean chemical-free anti-static fibre, and Repreve nylon staple fibre.

“Our customers continue to ask for fibres and technologies that will not only help them meet their sustainability goals, but also provide superior performance,” said Jay Hertwig, Group Vice President of Global Branded Sales for Unifi. “At Unifi, we continue to develop solutions that help our customers make a difference.”

TruFlexx engineered stretch fibre is a breakthrough 100% polyester, sustainable stretch option that eliminates the need for spandex, according to the manufacturer: “When spandex is knit into a fabric, it greatly limits recyclability of the fabric after its useful life. TruFlexx engineered stretch can replace spandex in the 5-10% content range for comfort-stretch knits, creating the possibility of a 100% closed-loop recyclable polyester fabric.” It is engineered for stretch and recovery, providing shape retention with less compression while also improving moisture management.

Static is a significant issue for apparel and home textiles, as it makes black and white jeans look dirty and faded and creates a cleaning problem for pet hair. TruClean anti-static fibre is a chemical-free option and permanently inhibits static and cling, repelling pet hair, lint and other small particles to keep fabrics looking newer. TruClean anti-static is a sustainable option available with Repreve recycled fibre, and applications include apparel, pet bedding, upholstery, curtains and automotive.

Unifi is also launching Repreve nylon staple fibre, a new, more eco-friendly option for spun yarns.  Repreve recycled nylon staple fibre can be used to improve the hand feel and strength of fabrics, add a natural heather effect, or a cooling effect.  Nylon is lightweight, durable, moisture wicking, and resists pilling and abrasion; desirable characteristics that can easily be blended into a more sustainable yarn using Repreve Nylon staple fibre.

“We believe that true innovation starts in the fibre, and our goal is to provide even more options to inspire our customers to innovate at the fibre level to achieve sustainable, high-performing products,” said Richard Gerstein, Unifi's Executive Vice President of Global Branded Premium Value-Added Products and Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer. “True innovation happens when we collaborate with our brand and textile partners to create unique performance technologies that are embedded in the fibre, and we are excited to share these exciting new products at Outdoor Retailer Snow Show.”

www.unifi.com