Global leader in fiber solutions, The Lycra Company has launched its first performance fiber range made from 100 per cent textile waste. Branded under its existing Coolmax® and Thermolite® ranges, these fibers are made from textile waste.They have been made in collaboration with the Itochu Corporation, a general trading company with strength in consumer-related sectors, including the textile business.

These fibers are made through a unique depolymerization and refining process that converts textile waste into fibers with properties comparable to virgin polyester. The new fibers are available in filament and staple forms, suitable for common textile processes and insulations batting uses.

Traditionally, the Coolmax® And Thermolite® range of fibers were made from recycled raw materials such as recycled PET bottles. The company will continue to offer these products in parallel with those made from textile waste. These new products can be purchased from The Lycra Company, except in Japan where Itochu will be responsible for sales and marketing.