As part of the Performance Days in Munich, the Austrian fiber manufacturer Lenzing AG presented “Tree Climate”, a fabric collection from the Tencel brand for sustainable outdoor clothing, which was intended to accommodate environmentally conscious outdoor fans.
The outdoor fabric experts David Parkes and Marco Weichert reinterpreted sustainability for functional outdoor clothing and combined efficient moisture management and optimal breathability with a reduced CO2 footprint. Accordingly, the collection includes functional base layer fabrics for direct skin contact, biodegradable padding and water- and wind-resistant outer layers with wood-based Tencel lyocell fibers.
“We are extremely proud of what we have created with the help of renowned curators David Parkes and Marco Weichert. The extremely high-performance fibers feel super soft and are also biodegradable. Coupled with carbon neutral fibers, this fabric collection will bring many positive changes for the outdoor apparel industry and the environment,” comments Andreas Gürtler, Senior Manager of Global Business Development Active Sportswear at Lenzing, in a statement.
“Tree Climate” uses Tencel-Lyocell in many ways
In the new fabric collection, the lyocell fibers of the Tencel brand were used in a variety of ways and in a large selection of fabrics with inherent functional properties for base, mid and outer layers, as well as padding. The collection thus covers three functional areas and enables the production of both synthetic-free and optimized synthetic solutions for different weather conditions.
The equipment is wind and weather resistant, offers optimal breathability and heat regulation. In addition, the fibers are soft on the skin and mix well with natural fibers such as wool and hemp. Their environmental impact is among the lowest of any material, according to the Higg Materials Sustainability Index.
“Sustainability has become a minimum requirement in the outdoor market. The industry needs climate-neutral, nature-based fibers that can be returned to nature. With the Tencel “Tree Climate” fabric collection, Lenzing presents the best fibers for the outdoor market. The biodegradable fibers on a natural basis impress with outstanding functional properties such as breathability and moisture management. I am delighted that I had the chance to be part of this project and I am convinced that it will be successful,” says Marco Weichert, Founder of Performance Days and CEO of Weichert Agencies.
“Performance clothing is defined by textiles that are both innovative and practical. Consumers have known this for decades. Lenzing is a leader in the development of textile fibers and has taken on this role with responsibility for textile sustainability and environmental awareness. I was inspired by the sustainability of this Tencel fibre, its appealing looks and its impressive warmth and comfort properties,” adds David Parkes, Founder and CEO of Concept III.