Sportswear brand Adidas has announced a partnership with Aquafil for the Spring/Summer 2017 Parley Hero swim range. Aquafil is a leading producer of Nylon 6 for carpets and apparel and will supply its 100 per cent regenerated Econyl fibre for the Adidas’ new range.
Explaining the technology, Aquafil reports that once collected, the pre- and post-consumer Nylon waste material – fishing nets, discarded carpets, plastic components, fabrics scraps – goes through the Econyl Regeneration System. Products are then finished with Adidas’ unique Infinitex+ Pulse and flat lock seams, enabling the range to be 100 per cent chlorine resistant for training support and the high level of comfort.
Moreover, the regenerated waste will offer the same qualities as materials usually found in wider swim apparel keeping the garments durable, lightweight and breathable.
According to Adidas Design Director Roger Hahn, the material is just as ‘cutting-edge as its polyester counterparts’. He explained, “It’s important to remember Adidas is designing a whole range of swimwear from top elite swimmers to recreational users. We conduct huge amounts of research and collect insights from our leading athletes but also have feedback sessions with swimming clubs.”
It’s worth mentioning here that 50 per cent of Adidas’ swimwear is already made from recycled/sustainable material, and 76 per cent of its Pool collection incorporates recycled polyamide. The company hopes to eventually recycle all its swimsuits.
