Unifi Launches Spandex-Free Stretch Yarn Containing Repreve
Unifi Inc. unveiled a new solution to eliminate spandex from fashion.
This week the maker of Repreve recycled polyester launched Integr8, a spandex-free stretch yarn that delivers an ultra-soft hand feel with moisture management, UPF protection, and easy-care, low-wrinkle properties.
The continuous filament yarn contains Repreve recycled polyester and has embedded the same sustainable characteristics. Integr8 is fully traceable through Unifi’s FiberPrint tracer technology and is certified by U-TRUST, along with Oeko-Tex, GRS, and SCS certifications for recycled content.
Unifi says the fiber’s “multifaceted functionality and scaled availability addresses key opportunities for the textile industry, particularly for brands aiming to create circular performance products and meet ambitious sustainability goals.” Integr8 can be applied to a wide range of products including woven, knit, and seamless products for apparel, footwear, and home furnishings industries.
Spandex-free yarns is a focus area for fiber producers, mills and brands. Last year, Under Armour partnered with Celanese Corp., a global specialty materials and chemical company, to develop Neolast, a fiber uses a proprietary solvent-free melt-extrusion process that eliminates hazardous chemicals typically used to create stretch fabrics with elastane. Los Angeles-based denim brand Triarchy has turned to Candiani Denim’s biodegradable Coreva technology, which uses natural rubber derived from trees to provide a similar elastic feel as spandex.
“Integr8 represents a breakthrough, particularly for apparel and footwear brands that have long sought the stretch of spandex without the associated environmental burden,” said Eddie Ingle, Unifi, Inc. CEO. “With one of the industry’s most comprehensive suites of performance-engineered technologies, Unifi is ideally positioned to meet the growing demand for sustainable, functional yarn.”
Earlier this month Unifi announced it was implementing a cost-reduction and profitability-improvement strategy that includes workforce cuts and new executive appointments. The Greensboro, N.C.-based aims to lower expenses by $10 million to $15 million each year.