#Textiles & Apparel / Garment

2017-08-07

Non-slip function, comfort compression and exciting structures

New knitted fabrics from eschler®, a schoeller® brand make an impact in function and unique design. Developed in Switzerland by the leading textile company in woven and knitted fabrics, and produced on high-tech machinery under strict ecological conditions, the collection features practical grip function, the new X4zol™-J fibres from Lubrizol, interesting structures and super-light elastic 2 ½ layer laminates.

GET A GRIP

For cyclists, the new e1 knitted textiles stay exactly where they want them. As cuffs on sleeves and legs, they provide a comfortable non-slip function thanks to silicon print on the interior. Available in a lighter and a heavier weight, the 3D-effect textiles have a pleasant next-to-skin feel and can be individually printed without impacting the grip effect. As outstanding Cool Fabrics, they provide very cooling comfort while the coldblack® finishing technology offers them reliable protection from UV rays and heat on warmer days.

COMFORTABLE COMPRESSION

Representing the next generation of textiles, the new X4zol™-J fibres from Lubrizol ensure an outstanding fit. The e1-Schoeller knitted fabrics for running, cycling and performance lifestyle categories offer balanced, 360° comfort stretch and a very high level of breathability, as well as sustainable benefits. Lubrizol X4zol™-J, a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) fibre, is a new elastomer monofilament, produced differently than spandex, creating unique qualities that offer unusual clothing comfort, compression and shape retention.

FUNCTION AND LIGHTNESS

Perfection in function is the mission statement of this e3 Cool Fabric in a highly-technical look. Finished with the water and dirt repelling NanoSphere® technology and coldblack®, this fine-meshed E40 gauge quality not only feels pleasantly cool, but also features antistatic carbon properties. The knitted fabric is suitable for printing and ideal for bodysuits, shirts or inserts. Outstanding wind and weather protection is offered via the super-light, elastic 2 ½ layer laminates from the e3+-product line. Ideal for packable cycling or outdoor rain jackets, the fabrics are water vapour permeable and suitable for taping. The polyester knitted fabrics are available in neon yellow or white (for printing) with a light membrane, or in black with a dark membrane. Permanent ceramic dots keep the fabric comfortably away from the skin and protect the membrane which, consequently, does not need to be lined.

OPTICS AND STRUCTURES

The group of printable, wind-tunnel tested e1 qualities has been expanded with the addition of a variety of new looks. Whether golf ball structure or various channel designs – they are all finished with coldblack® and allow for better aerodynamics. New designs such as chessboard or plaited carbon looks, as well as a 3D-effect which shimmers through from the reverse, augment the light shirt qualities and can be ideally combined with matching pants weights. Antibacterial active>silver and coldblack® finishes provide even more function. active>silver also refines the printable elastic meshes in various yarn counts which keep the wearer pleasantly cool and ensure outstanding moisture management.

Texprocess 2026: Automation, digitalisation and AI redefine textile processing

Making investment decisions in textile processing has become significantly more demanding. Increasing energy costs, a shortage of skilled labour and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties are compelling companies to focus on technologies that deliver clear gains in efficiency and process reliability. This applies equally to apparel manufacturing and to the processing of technical textiles and high-performance materials. As a result, modernisation initiatives are assessed more carefully – even as the need to upgrade production systems continues to intensify.

Techtextil 2026: Between innovation pressure & market reality

From 21 to 24 April 2026, Techtextil in Frankfurt am Main will once again become the central meeting point for the international technical textiles and nonwovens industry. Running in parallel, Texprocess will focus on the industrial implementation of textile processing technologies as the leading platform in this field. Together, the two trade fairs form a closely integrated presentation and working platform along the entire textile value chain – from material development to finished applications.

Between geopolitical pressure and industrial resilience

In this interview, Dr. Janpeter Horn (VDMA) discusses the current challenges facing textile machinery manufacturers, shaped by geopolitical tensions, regulatory developments and subdued investment. He also outlines why innovation strength, integrated solutions and strategic positioning remain key to global competitiveness.

Messe Frankfurt commits further to East Africa: three textiles trade fairs during Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week from 2027

Messe Frankfurt and its Texpertise Network continue their steady, successful trajectory in the region. As Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week (ASFW) opened today, Member of the Executive Board Detlef Braun announced that Messe Frankfurt is licencing its three leading international trade fair brands Texworld, Apparel Sourcing and Texprocess to Nairobi, Kenya for the first time in 2027. From now on, they will take place annually as part of the Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week (ASFW) Nairobi.

“We Believe in the Value of Textiles”: Successful Opening of the KARL MAYER TEXTILE INNOVATION CENTER

KARL MAYER inaugurated its new, state-of-the-art TEXTILE INNOVATION CENTER (TIC) with a four-day opening week from April 21 to 24. The highlight of the week was the grand opening on Thursday, which drew a strong turnout from the international textile industry: around 220 customers, brands, and partners from across the textile value chain came to the company’s headquarters in Obertshausen for a first-hand look at the new high-tech development environment and lively exchange with industry peers.

Texhibition Istanbul signals stability and global connectivity

From 4 to 6 March 2026, Texhibition Istanbul once again brought together the international textile industry at the Istanbul Expo Center. Organized by İTKİB Fuarcılık A.Ş. in cooperation with the Istanbul Textile Exporters Association (İTHİB), the fair confirmed its role as one of the most important international sourcing platforms for fabrics and textile innovation. With 500+ exhibitors across 5 halls on 42,850 sqm, the trade fair attracted 19,325 visitors. Among them, 5.565 international visitors represented Europe, Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, North America, and other regions, underlining the show’s expanding global reach.

Val:ue Milan unveiled – a curated boutique business hub for high-end apparel textiles

Messe Frankfurt continues to expand its international textile network with the announcement of Val:ue Milan. Moving beyond the traditional trade fair model, Val:ue Milan debuts as a prestigious, boutique-style business hub exclusively dedicated to elected fabrics and accessories for apparel. Taking place from February 3 to 5, 2027, at The Mall in Porta Nuova, the event breaks away from conventional formats through a strictly curated environment designed for strategic networking. By bridging the gap between high-end international manufacturers and top-tier segment buyers, Val:ue Milan further strengthens the Group’s global portfolio with a unique, high-impact concept built around a refined and carefully selected offering.

ECCO introduces first shoe featuring innovative protein-based fibre

ECCO, in partnership with Spinnova, announces the launch of the limited edition ECCO BIOM® 720, a first-of-its-kind shoe utilising an often overlooked leather by-product, transformed into a protein-based fibre. The fibres are produced using patented technology that advances material innovation while reducing waste and supporting full resource use across the leather and textile industry.

The LYCRA Company strengthens sustainability leadership, appoints Alistair Williamson as VP of Product Sustainability

The LYCRA Company has appointed longtime executive Alistair Williamson as vice president of product sustainability, reaffirming its commitment to developing sustainable solutions for apparel and personal care products. In this role, he will guide the company’s next chapter of sustainability strategy and oversee all initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact across products, operations, and innovation platforms.