The Danish century-old footwear brand ECCO is accelerating its transformation from the business scene to the sports and outdoor arena. At the end of June, ECCO's collaborative capsule collection with the Japanese mountain streetwear brand White Mountaineering made its debut at Paris Fashion Week. The new men's and women's ready-to-wear collection and functional footwear will be launched in August 2025. This is the third collaboration between ECCO and White Mountaineering. As early as late October last year, the joint capsule series was launched, attracting widespread attention in the market. Many people in the outdoor community believe that, empowered by White Mountaineering, ECCO's urban outdoor apparel system can be said to be "winning at the starting line." Dive into the blue ocean of outdoor sports. According to reports, White Mountaineering is a Japanese outdoor apparel brand founded in 2006 by designer Yosuke Aizawa. Over the years, White Mountaineering has been dedicated to merging outdoor sports with fashion, creating a brand new style in fashion. White Mountaineering is very active in collaborations. In addition to working with ECCO, it has also launched collaborative products with fashion brands such as adidas, UGG, Danner, Wrangler, and MADNESS, which are well-loved by consumers. ECCO is a Danish casual footwear brand, founded in 1963, and entered the Chinese market in 1997. ECCO has always left Chinese consumers with the impression of being a mid-to-high-end brand with a price point in the thousand-yuan range and a focus on comfort. However, its design style is relatively conservative, making it more popular among middle-aged and older professional men. There are numerous discussions on social media linking it to terms like "dad shoes," "fashion items for middle-aged men," and "government office footwear." "Ten love walking, nine are rich, and one is just starting." "To do business, you have to travel far; if you want to be rich, wear love walking." Many jokes circulating on social media have turned ECCO into a symbol of success. However, some young people in the comments express confusion about who exactly is wearing these "ugly shoes." This cognitive dissonance reflects the conflict between ECCO's brand DNA and the changes in consumer generations: as Generation Z sees outdoor activities as a trendy lifestyle, this century-old brand, rooted in "comfortable business," is trying to shake off its "middle-aged" label through collaborations with trendy brands. The explosive growth of the outdoor sports market provides a crucial opportunity for its transformation. A recent research report released by Dongfang Caifu Securities shows that outdoor sports are gradually becoming more integrated into daily life and popular among the general public. According to data from Xiaohongshu, activities such as city walking, trail running, stream tracing, diving, rock climbing, cycling, and hiking are seeing rapid growth in search volume. In terms of total search volume, yoga, camping, hiking, cycling, and skiing have become popular outdoor sports with high total search volume and a large number of exposure notes. According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics, the China National Garment Association, and Frost & Sullivan, the market size of the high-performance outdoor footwear and apparel market in mainland China is expected to reach 102.7 billion yuan in 2024. Outdoor apparel leads the industry in growth, with the market size CAGR for apparel, footwear, and accessories from 2019 to 2024 being 14.7%, 12.8%, and 10.0%, respectively. Among them, the windbreakers and sun-protective clothing are the super popular items in outdoor apparel. According to data from Yien, windbreakers have the highest content volume on social media platforms like Douyin and Xiaohongshu. From the market structure perspective, affordable windbreakers occupy the main market, while the mid-to-high-end windbreaker market is growing at a faster pace. According to Jiuqian data, mid-to-high-end windbreakers show stronger growth potential, with online sales growth rates for windbreakers priced between 699-1521 yuan projected to be 37% in the first four months of 2025, and online sales growth rates for windbreakers priced above 1521 yuan reaching as high as 65%. Such industry data may explain why ECCO, which has deeply cultivated the business footwear sector, suddenly ventures into the trendy outdoor space. Will anyone pay for ECCO outdoor? Since the opening of its first ACTIVELIFESTYLE outdoor store in 2024, ECCO has completed a strategic layout of 20 stores in China. This century-old brand, known for its footwear, is attempting to transition from a "footwear expert" to a "full-scene outdoor lifestyle brand." In terms of product positioning, ECCO is also targeting the mid-to-high-end market. According to a report by Southern Metropolis and Bay Finance, an inquiry into ECCO's official mall reveals that its collaboration series with Japanese brand White Mountaineering features distinctly high-end pricing: sports shoes are priced primarily in the 2000-3000 yuan range, the starting price for the collaboration outerwear series exceeds 2000 yuan, and the pricing for the GORE-TEX professional fabric jackets is as high as nearly 7000 yuan. Such pricing has also sparked considerable controversy in the market. Some industry insiders point out that although ECCO has quickly penetrated the streetwear scene through three collaborations with White Mountaineering, its pricing lacks strong technical endorsement in front of the professional matrix of outdoor sports brands, resulting in insufficient market recognition. Taking trail running shoes as an example, leading brands like Salomon and HOKA often price their main models in the range of 1000-2000 yuan, such as the Salomon Pulsar Trail series and HOKA MAFATE SPEED2, which have become the top choice for runners due to their professional performance and cost-effectiveness. In the jacket market, Arc'teryx's NORVAN SHELL, a GORE-TEX hard shell, is priced around 4500 yuan, while domestic brand Kailas's MONTX series manages to keep the price of jackets made with the same material under 4000 yuan, making them relatively more competitive. However, ECCO's customer base itself possesses strong purchasing power, which may be the confidence behind its positioning of the sports product line as mid-to-high end. However, changing the ECCO customer’s entrenched impression of "comfortable business" to accept its new positioning of "functional outdoor" is bound to be a long and challenging battle. On social media, the consumer choice of "giving up ECCO and turning to Arc'teryx/Descente/Salomon" is frequently seen. As professional outdoor brands like Arc'teryx and Salomon continue to their product lines, ECCO's once core middle-class customer group is facing a sustained diversion crisis. This has compelled the brand to accelerate its transformation pace and seek breakthroughs in the fiercely competitive outdoor market. Financial reports show that from 2021 to 2024, ECCO's revenue in the Greater China region has continued to grow for four consecutive years, increasing from 360 million euros to 418 million euros. However, the trend of slowing growth is also evident. Data indicates that ECCO's revenue growth rate in the Greater China region decreased from 19% in 2021 to 1% in 2024. As of now, ECCO has opened 20 ACTIVELIFESTYLE outdoor flagship stores in China. The brand recently revealed in public reports that it plans to continue expanding in economically vibrant cities with strong consumer spending and will collaborate with leading commercial real estate developers to optimize its market layout.

The space for differentiation in the main materials of outdoor footwear and clothing with the same positioning is becoming increasingly small. Decorative elements can become one of the carriers of differentiation. Silk screen printing Source: naturalcosmeticlabs Suitable for LOGO. Uses water-based or Plastisol ink; single or multiple color printing, followed by heat transfer for color fixing. The Nike ACG Walk Tree T-Shirt features a large natural theme print on the front, with a soft and breathable feel, making it suitable for urban outdoor mixing and matching. Source: static.nike Polyester/nylon embroidery thread, high stitch count flat embroidery or layered three-dimensional embroidery; or back hot melt film shaping. Commonly used for logos. The classic hard-shell "Arc'teryx Beta AR" front "Arcteryx" embroidery is wear-resistant and does not affect the fabric's waterproof and breathable threshold. Heat transfer label PU/TPU hot melt film, after digital printing or silk screen printing, is heat pressed at high temperatures; suitable for lightweight elastic fabrics. The Moncler reflective heat transfer badge series (such as Waffle Knit sweaters) is widely used in the urban outdoor line and maintains flexibility at low temperatures. Silicone / PVC 3D label Liquid silicone is high-temperature vulcanized or poured into PVC, allowing for a 0.8-2 mm three-dimensional layer; the back is equipped with hot melt adhesive/sewing line groove. The Columbia × Star Wars “Skywalker Pilot” ski jacket features raised silicone communication badges and branding, enhancing the sci-fi attributes while being resistant to low-temperature bending. Woven label / Flag label High-density jacquard or woven; ultrasonic cutting or ultrasonic folding at the edges, Patagonia "Ironclad Guarantee" woven label, highlighting the brand's sustainability and lifelong repair philosophy. Reflective strip / Reflective print 3M™ Scotchlite™ micro glass beads or carbon black elastic film; thermal adhesive or high-frequency pressing. Source: 3M LED/Optical Fiber Light Emitting Component Flexible PCB + LED series, optical fiber, or phosphorescent film; requires a small power module. Vollebak Solar Charged Jacket: The outer layer has a phosphorescent film that glows green in the dark for 20-30 minutes after being exposed to light, which can also serve as a positioning signal. Levi’s® Commuter Trucker × Google Jacquard: Sleeve LED dot matrix alerts for calls/navigation, and integrates capacitive touch fabric. Customized zipper head Injection molding TPU / aluminum alloy micro sandblasting; laser engraving logo. The Arc'teryx Cerium Hoody features a lightweight TPU zipper head that maintains its toughness in low temperatures. Color-blocking splicing / Bright seam stitching Three stitches and five lines or overlock; accessory fabric color blocks. Arc'teryx X Jil Sander jacket features a large black-and-white color block design, enhancing the high street visual. Shoe lace hole / Shoe lace buckle decoration Injection molded TPU film; integrated Quick-lace. The Salomon XT-6 series features a TPU "Skin Guard" spider web overlay and quick lacing holes, balancing protection and recognition. 3D patches (shoulder, elbow, knee) Double-layer CORDURA®, with targeted bartack stitching. Commonly used in ski and ice climbing clothing, enhancing abrasion resistance and creating an outdoor functional visual language. Replaceable Velcro badge Nylon hook and loop + fabric label / PVC badge; embroidery or silicone process. Source: nivisgear Nivis Gear Protego Ski Jacket has sleeves with embedded Velcro, allowing for the exchange of national flags or team badges. Hook and loop / Climbing buckle 6 series aluminum alloy or injection molded POM; webbing loop. Commonly found on backpack shoulder straps and D-Rings on the chest of jackets, used for hanging water bottles, gloves, lights, etc. Source: popularairsoft Outdoor footwear and clothing accessories can be combined with environmental scenarios (night running / snow mountains / urban commuting) and brand tone (minimalist functionality / outdoor fashion) to undertake a multi-dimensional role of "function + experience + brand story." Interested product developers can flexibly mix and match the above materials and craftsmanship to achieve a differentiated appearance while ensuring durability and safety.

The slogan "Don't follow the conventional path" still resonates with the post-80s and post-90s generations in China, and many have a deep impression of Jay Chou's "non-mainstream" endorsement advertisements. These are all "tears of the era" created by Metisbonwe. On July 15, Shanghai Metersbonwe Fashion & Apparel Co., Ltd. (abbreviated as Metersbonwe, stock code: 002269.SZ) announced that it expects a net profit of 7 million to 10 million yuan for the first half of this year, a year-on-year decrease of 86.98% to 90.88%; the expected net profit excluding non-recurring gains and losses is 650,000 to 950,000 yuan, a year-on-year decrease of 88.3% to 91.99%. Affected by this news, Metersbonwe's closing price on the same day was 1.92 yuan, down 3.03%. Recently, the Shanghai Commercial Paper Exchange disclosed a list of overdue accepting parties, which includes Meibang Apparel. The list shows that in the first half of 2025, 889 accepting parties repeatedly had overdue behaviors, among which Meibang Apparel had a total accepting amount of 7.24 million yuan, an accepting balance of 7.08 million yuan, while the total overdue amount was as high as 103 million yuan. The criteria for defining overdue accepting parties are clear: if an accepting party has more than three instances of overdue bills within six months and has an overdue balance at the end of the month, or if it has overdue bills in the current month, it is considered an overdue accepting party. According to the relevant provisions of the "Operational Guidelines for Disclosure of Commercial Bill Information," the Shanghai Commercial Paper Exchange has suspended the commercial bill acceptance service authority of the company. If Mebon Apparel wants to restore the relevant authority, it must clear all overdue bills and strictly follow the requirements to complete the credit repair process. Tianyancha shows that Shanghai Metersbonwe Apparel Co., Ltd. was established on December 6, 2000, with a registered capital of 2.5 billion yuan and nearly 900 employees. The largest shareholder is Shanghai Huafu Investment Co., Ltd., holding a 33.43% stake. On June 25, 2025, the company became an executed party due to a partnership dispute, with a total amount of 797 million yuan to be executed, and the executing court is the Shanghai First Intermediate People's Court. The actual controller of the company is the founder of Metersbonwe, Zhou Chengjian, who was once the richest person in the apparel industry in mainland China in 2009 and 2010. The second largest shareholder is Zhou Chengjian's daughter, Hu Jiajia, who holds an 8.96% stake. Information shows that Hu Jiajia was born in 1986 and took over as the chairman and president of Metersbonwe in 2016. However, it is reported that starting from 2024, Hu Jiajia has stepped down, and Zhou Chengjian has taken the helm again, which is referred to in the industry as "reverse succession." The core brand Metersbonwe was established in 1995, marking its 30th anniversary this year. From the very beginning, the brand pioneered a virtual operating model combining outsourced production and franchise stores. The period from 2000 to 2010 was a golden era for domestic casual clothing, and Metersbonwe occupied key commercial areas through rapid expansion, using the slogan "Metersbonwe, not following the usual path." In 2003, they successfully gained attention by inviting the then "Asian King" Jay Chou as their spokesperson, deeply integrating into the first generation idol drama "Meteor Garden." They opened a super-large flagship store on Nanjing Road in Shanghai, becoming the brand with the highest market share in domestic casual wear. Jay Chou's past endorsement advertisements. In 2008, Meibang Apparel successfully went public on the A-share market, with a market value that once approached 40 billion yuan. The company also began a multi-brand strategy, launching sub-brands such as MECITY, MECITY KIDS, and Moomoo between 2008 and 2011. In 2011, the company reached its peak, with sales revenue of 9.9 billion yuan and a net profit of 1.2 billion yuan. By 2012, Meibang had over 5,000 stores, including 1,306 directly-operated stores and 3,914 franchised stores. Directly-operated stores were mainly located in first-tier cities, while franchised stores were primarily found in second-tier, third-tier, and lower-tier cities, earning the title of "King of Pedestrian Streets." Good times do not last long. With the rapid entry of foreign fast fashion brands into the domestic market and the swift spread of e-commerce shopping, Meibang Clothing's performance began to decline. In 2015, the company reported its first loss, amounting to 430 million yuan. In 2018, the company experienced a brief recovery, with industry insiders believing it was due to the second generation taking over and reshaping the company's brand and product style from a young person's perspective, but it was not sustained. In 2019, the company incurred losses again, exceeding 800 million yuan. From 2016 to 2023, the cumulative loss reached 3.1 billion yuan. As of April 2024, the number of Meibang Clothing stores nationwide has decreased to 607, with the average revenue per direct store being 2.3679 million yuan, a year-on-year decrease of 70.84%, and the average sales per square meter being 4,275.75 yuan, a year-on-year decrease of 64.70%. In 2024, Metersbonwe announced a repositioning of its brand from casual fashion to outdoor leisure fashion, updated its logo, changed its classic slogan from "Not Walking the Ordinary Path" to "Unordinary Outdoors, Youth at Ease," and even proposed a strategic positioning as an alternative to Arc'teryx, setting the goal of "returning to a billion-yuan scale within three years." On November 1, 2024, the brand made its debut on Taobao Live, with Zhou Chengjian personally stepping in to propose a strategy of "professional commentary + quality products" for live selling, pioneering a "group-buying coupon" business model. The premiere live stream garnered over 3.78 million views, with total sales exceeding 15 million yuan. Subsequently, Zhou Chengjian initiated weekly regular live broadcasts. Zhou Chengjian stands for outdoor new products in a "reverse succession". As of now, the official flagship store of Metersbonwe on Tmall has 11.21 million followers, with the best-selling item, a windbreaker, selling over 100 units per month at a price of 208 yuan. The product page indicates a waterproof index of 10,000 mm, which is far below the industry benchmark of 20,000 mm, leading outdoor enthusiasts to question it as "suitable for subway commuting" and lacking "technological attributes." According to Metersbonwe's financial report for 2024, the total annual revenue was 680 million yuan, a year-on-year decline of 49.79%, with a total profit of -191 million yuan, a year-on-year decrease of 715.45%. Compared to its peak revenue of 9.9 billion yuan in 2011, it has evaporated by over 90%. On July 9, news spread on Douyin stating "This time it's real @Zhou Tongxue is coming," causing the "Jay Chou concept stock" Giant Star Legend to surge by more than 100% at one point, with Meibang Apparel also hitting the daily limit. In an interview with the media last April, Zhou Chengjian mentioned, "Inviting Jay Chou to our live stream is something many Meibang consumers are looking forward to, and many partners are expecting as well. I think Jay Chou is also willing to do it. It is definitely possible to invite Jay back to our live stream again." The founder has lowered his stance, reaching out to a former spokesperson who is now a top influencer. Having once walked down an "unusual path" together, will the spillover effect of today's top influencer help 30-year-old Meibang find a way out?

International News Digest Raw Materials News - Adnoc bids $18.7 billion to acquire Australian energy giant after acquiring Covestro Packaging News - Danone Canada invests C$9 million in PET yogurt cup production, leading green revolution in dairy packaging with 30% recycled plastic Automotive News - BMW develops natural fiber composites: performance comparable to carbon fiber, carbon emissions reduced by 40% Macro News - Qatar sets the premium for June-loading Al-Shaheen crude oil contracts at the highest level in a year Price Information - RMB/USD central parity rate reported at 7.1761, down 15 pips   Details of International News   EU unilaterally announces cancellation of high-level economic dialogue with ChinaThe Financial Times reported on June 17, citing informed sources, that the EU has canceled important economic and trade talks with China ahead of the China-EU Leaders' Summit due to the lack of progress in multiple trade disputes. The newspaper stated that the China-EU economic and trade talks originally scheduled for July 24-25, which were to serve as the foundation for future dialogue between Beijing and Brussels, were called off. The cancellation may lower expectations for any concrete outcomes from the summit. After acquiring Covestro, Adnoc bids $18.7 billion to acquire Australian energy giant SantosShortly after completing the acquisition of German chemical giant Covestro, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) has taken action again. This time, it has set its sights on Santos, Australia's second-largest natural gas producer. Santos confirmed on June 17 that it has received an all-cash acquisition offer worth $18.7 billion (approximately A$27.4 billion) from an international consortium led by Adnoc, at A$8.89 per share, representing a 28% premium over the previous trading day's closing price. Including net debt, the transaction values Santos at A$36.4 billion, making it the largest all-cash corporate merger and acquisition (M&A) case in Australian history and the third-largest M&A deal overall. The acquisition is initiated by Adnoc through its investment arm XRG, in conjunction with Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company (ADQ) and private equity giant Carlyle, aiming to expand its global natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) business footprint. INEOS Phenol announces plans to close site in Germany INEOS Phenol, the world’s largest producer of phenol and acetone, announced today its intention to permanently stop production at their site in Gladbeck, Germany. High European energy costs alongside Europe’s punitive CO2 tax policy have combined to leave Europe uncompetitive against imported Chinese production and a global oversupply. Monopoly maker Hasbro cuts 3% of total workforce amid higher tariff costs Toy seller  has cut 3% of its global workforce in its latest cost-cutting effort amid higher U.S. tariffs on toys from China. The job cuts amount to about 150 employees. According to its fiscal 2024 annual filing, the company had roughly 4,985 employees globally. VAUDE's new bicycle backpack uses BASF's innovative zero-carbon footprint polyamide materialVAUDE, a leading German brand in sustainable outdoor clothing and equipment, has partnered with BASF to launch the new TRAILCONTROL ZERO 20+ bicycle backpack, setting a new industry benchmark. The backpack uses BASF's innovative Ultramid® ZeroPCF material—a polyamide 6 (PA6) product with a zero carbon footprint. Danone Canada invests C$9 million in PET yogurt cup production, leading green revolution in dairy packaging with 30% recycled PETDanone Canada, a French food and beverage giant, announced an investment of C$9 million (approximately US$6.7 million) to upgrade its production base in Boucherville, Quebec, to launch a production line for independent cup yogurt packaging made from PET resin. This move aims to fulfill its sustainable development goals, planning to incorporate 30% recycled PET material (rPET) into the packaging, and has secured distribution support from supermarkets nationwide in Canada. New guidelines published for best practices in chemical recycling / Framework spells out clarity and recommendations for companiesBrussels-based waste management group Chemical Recycling Europe (CRE) has announced the publication of a framework that it says will help a wide range of stakeholders assess the environmental performance of chemical recycling processes. BMW develops natural fiber composites: performance comparable to carbon fiber, carbon emissions reduced by 40%Technology media carscoops reported in a blog post today (June 18) that BMW has partnered with Swiss clean technology company Bcomp to develop new natural fiber composites using flax as raw material, with performance comparable to carbon fiber but 40% lower carbon emissions. Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M Division, pointed out that the material is key to lightweight innovation in racing and production vehicles and plans to include it as an optional configuration in future M series models.   Overseas Macro Market Information   Qatar sets the premium for June-loading Al-Shaheen crude oil contracts at the highest level in a yearQatar set the premium for June-loading Al-Shaheen crude oil contracts at $2.48 per barrel, the highest level in a year. Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) survey: Most respondents expect further policy easing in JulyA survey by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) shows that most respondents expect further monetary policy easing at the July policy review. Economists forecast a 2025 growth rate of 1.7%, lower than the 2.6% in the first-quarter survey, with 2026 growth also expected to be 1.7%. The overall CPI inflation forecast for 2025 is 0.9%, lower than 1.7% in the first quarter, and 1.5% for 2026. The core inflation rate is expected to be 0.8% in 2025, lower than the first-quarter survey's 1.5%, and 1.5% in 2026. Economists expect the economy to grow 3.0% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2025. Brent crude oil premium over Dubai crude hits a 2-year highData shows that the premium of Brent crude oil over Dubai crude oil has reached the highest level since September 2023. Japan's exports to the US fell sharply year-on-year in MayOn June 18, Japan's Ministry of Finance released the latest trade statistics. According to the results, Japan's exports to the US fell 11.1% year-on-year in May, once again resulting in a large trade deficit. The report shows that due to reduced exports of automobiles, steel, and mineral fuels to the US, exports fell 1.7% year-on-year to ¥81.4 trillion in May; benefiting from lower energy prices, imports fell 7.7% year-on-year to ¥87.7 trillion. Japan's trade deficit in May was ¥63.76 billion, far higher than ¥11.58 billion in April. By country and region, Japan's exports to the US fell 11.1% year-on-year to ¥15.1 trillion in May, with automobile and auto parts exports down 24.7% and 19%, respectively. The 25% tariff imposed by the US on automotive products has had a huge impact on Japan's exports.   Price Information RMB/USD central parity rateThe central parity rate of RMB against the US dollar was reported at 7.1761, down 15 pips; the previous trading day's central parity rate was 7.1746, the previous trading day's official closing price was 7.1838, and the overnight session closed at 7.1874. Raw materials prices in USD Ethylene Asia: CFR Northeast Asia at $810/ton, up $10/ton; CFR Southeast Asia at $850/ton. Propylene Northeast Asia: FOB South Korea average at $720/ton, up $10/ton; CFR China average at $760/ton. North Asia frozen cargo CIF price: Propane $577-579/ton; Butane $547-549/ton. South China frozen cargo July CIF price: Propane $598-608/ton; Butane $540-550/ton. Taiwan region frozen cargo CIF price: Propane $577-579/ton; Butane $547-549/ton. LLDPE prices in USD Film: $915/ton (CFR Huangpu); Injection molding: $960/ton (CFR Dongguan); HDPE prices in USD Film: $910-915/ton (CFR Huangpu); Hollow: $860/ton (CFR Huangpu); LDPE prices in USD Film: $1,035/ton (CFR Xiamen); PP prices in USD Homopolymer: $890-970/ton (CFR Huangpu), up $5/ton; Copolymer: $965-990/ton (CFR Huangpu); mixed trends Film grade: $1,025-1,090/ton (CFR Huangpu); Transparent: $1,065/ton (CFR Huangpu), down $20/ton; Pipe grade: $1,160/ton (CFR Shanghai).

Inditex's sportswear and casual wear brand Oysho has partnered with Fulgar to launch a new line of environmentally friendly sportswear made from Q-Cycle yarn. This cooperation marks an important step towards sustainable development in sportswear. The series is made with Q-Cycle yarn, which is entirely produced from recycled raw materials.Polyamide66 yarn. This yarn is made from pyrolysis oil generated from waste or end-of-life tires, offering an eco-friendly alternative to virgin polyamide 66 without compromising on lightness, durability, or strength. Q-Cycle yarn has obtained certifications from leading international organizations, including the RCS and ISCC PLUS from Textile Exchange, LCA, and Oeko-TEX Standard 100 Appendix 6, ensuring sustainability and consumer safety. The material is versatile, suitable for various textile applications, and can be well blended with different fibers. Fulgar Marketing Manager Daniela Antunes stated, "Our collaboration with Oysho is a concrete step towards a greener future. With the Q-Cycle yarn, we are demonstrating that waste can be repurposed for high-performance textiles without compromising on quality or functionality."

GORE-TEX fabric, a high-tech material invented by the international fabric giant W. L. Gore Associates in 1969, can block liquid water while allowing water vapor to pass through. It offers durable waterproofing, windproofing, and breathability, overcoming the common defect of waterproof fabrics that lack breathability. As a result, it is hailed as the "Fabric of the Century." Known as the "King of Outdoor Fabrics," GORE-TEX's exceptional waterproofing primarily relies on PFAS. While GORE-TEX's waterproof technology has revolutionized the outdoor sports experience, it has also contributed to the silent infiltration of "forever chemicals"—PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances)—into the environment and human bodies.On March 26, the report "Wearing Once Pollutes Once? Many Outdoor Jackets Contain This Harmful Substance, Famous Mountaineers Have Already Abandoned It, and Leading Companies Are Starting to Use Alternative Fabrics" was released, drawing consumer attention to outdoor apparel brands' use and disclosure of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).As "forever chemicals," PFAS can accumulate in the human body and the environment, causing negative health and environmental impacts. Currently, the states of California and New York in the U.S. have enacted legislation banning the sale of PFAS-containing clothing from 2025.As the core of this incident, the "GORE-TEX" brand, whose parent company is W. L. Gore Associates, responded swiftly. On U.S. local time on the 27th, the company issued an official statement, recognizing the increasing public concern over PFAS. The company always carefully selects the most suitable materials, prioritizing environmental protection while pursuing performance.Gore also stated that the GORE-TEX brand launched the ePE film in 2022, which is made from expanded polyethylene and does not intentionally add PFAS. By the end of 2025, most of the company's consumer fabric products will utilize Gore ePE film technology.Recently, regarding the focal topics of "the progress in the development of PFAS alternative materials" and "the urgent need for full industry collaboration," spokesperson Gin Ando from the leading outdoor brand Patagonia and Inga Bleyer, the market and communications director of the certification body OEKO-TEX, were interviewed by reporters from *The Economic Daily*. The OEKO-TEX certification is adopted by thousands of brands and manufacturers worldwide, and its certification label serves as an important reference for consumers purchasing safe and eco-friendly products.Balancing functionality and environmental protection is difficult.But many companies are actively trying.NBD: Has the textile industry found a completely替代PFAS waterproof breathable materials? If not, what are the main technological bottlenecks?Inge Bair: Currently, there are some alternatives that can provide a similar level of water resistance, but no alternative can provide all the performance attributes of PFAS. This is especially true in the field of personal protective equipment (PPE), where phase-out is happening slowly. It's worth noting that personal protective equipment is generally exempted in most regulations.NBD: What is the main function of PFAS in Patagonia outdoor clothing? How important are these functions to the consumer's outdoor experience?Gene Anzeng: In Patagonia (the product), PFAS are primarily used for waterproofing. Because we design this type of product for some of the harshest environments on Earth, our clothing must perform exceptionally well and ensure user safety. Having fully functional clothing outdoors can increase the enjoyment of experiencing nature in any environment.NBD: What progress has the company made in developing PFAS alternatives? Can these alternative materials match or exceed the performance of PFAS in terms of water resistance and other critical properties?Gene Anderson: Since we became aware of the significant hazards associated with the production process of PFAS, we have been engaged in a decade-long research and testing effort to develop PFAS alternatives. The reason it has taken so long is that we insist the performance of the alternatives must not be inferior to that of PFAS-containing garments. After testing hundreds of fabrics and chemical formulations, we have now achieved complete elimination of deliberately added PFAS in even our professional products designed for extreme environments. None of our current full product line or future seasonal releases will contain deliberately added PFAS substances.NBD: What is the current overall usage of PFAS in the textile industry?Inga Blair: Textile manufacturers are becoming more aware of the impacts of PFAS, leading to a decline in the use of these chemicals in recent years. As far as we know, many brands are actively phasing out PFAS in their products.NBD: What technical and supply chain challenges does Patagonia face in reducing or eliminating the use of PFAS? How are these challenges being addressed?Gene Ando: In the first batch of PFAS-free fabric samples we received, some were so stiff that they could be torn in half like cardboard. We discovered early in the RD process that removing PFAS affects far more than just water resistance—two key indicators, the fabric's tear resistance and seam slippage, change due to the alternatives, and we must innovate to address these issues.In some cases, we simply remove PFAS treatment because it is not necessary at all; whereas in some of our windproof jacket lines, we have adopted waterproof and breathable technologies specifically designed for automotive batteries. We have invested substantial time and resources into research to ensure that the durability and functionality of the garments are not compromised by these eco-friendly innovations."We are all partners in the same boat when it comes to environmental protection."NBD: Is the current international detection standard and certification system for PFAS in textiles完善? Are institutions planning to introduce stricter detection standards and certification systems?Inga Becker: Since 2023, we have completely banned the intentional use (presence) of PFAS substances in products certified by "OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100", products certified by the Leather Standard, and chemicals certified by "ECO PASSPORT". Currently, we use the total fluorine limit value as the testing standard, which complies with current U.S. regulations and aligns with the upcoming EU regulatory standards. Additionally, we have recently improved our PFAS detection methods to enhance testing accuracy. The new method can detect not only easily releasable PFAS but also PFAS bound to the substrate.NBD: As a leader in environmental responsibility in the industry, how does Patagonia view the efforts of the outdoor clothing sector in reducing the use of PFAS? Will the company collaborate with other brands or organizations to drive the industry towards a PFAS-free future?Gene Ando: We are very willing to help the industry make progress together. In terms of environmental protection, we are all partners on the same boat.NBD: Given that various countries and regions around the world are gradually legislating to regulate PFAS, will Patagonia's eco-friendly clothing updates be implemented逐步实施 based on local policies, or will there be a one-time global replacement and upgrade? The sentence seems to be cut off at the end. Assuming it continues with "逐步实施" (implemented step by step), the complete translation would be:NBD: Given that various countries and regions around the world are gradually legislating to regulate PFAS, will Patagonia's eco-friendly clothing updates be implemented step by step based on local policies, or will there be a one-time global replacement and upgrade?Gene Ando: All of our new products no longer have added PFAS. Even if US law changes to allow them again, we know the harm they cause and won't go back. It took us a full decade to find good quality alternatives, and the industry is gradually phasing them out anyway.NBD: Based on OEKO-TEX's observations in the textile industry, what do you think are the core challenges the industry currently faces in terms of sustainable development? What specific suggestions do you have for promoting collaboration across all links in the industry chain to achieve environmental goals?Inga Blair: We believe that the focus in the future will be more on transparency and traceability. Transparency and traceability are key to identifying and addressing challenges within their respective supply chains and gaining a broader understanding of economic, ecological, and social sustainability. We believe that legislative bodies will also demand greater transparency and traceability in the future.Over the course of our 30-year development, we have established strong partnerships with all sectors of the textile and leather industries. We recommend that all industry participants strengthen cooperation, jointly explore issues and needs, and work together to find solutions.About GORE-TEX new expanded polyethylene (ePE) membrane ● Has a high specific strength (i.e., strength-to-weight ratio), allowing it to be made into lightweight, thin, and structurally robust composite materials.● Has outstanding durability, which can further reduce environmental impact.● Combined with polyurethane (PU) to form a durable waterproof, windproof, and highly breathable film.The Higg MSI measurement results indicate that expanded polyethylene (ePE) materials and lighter film weights can reduce carbon footprints.● Aligns with the GORE-TEX Textiles Division goal: to not use PFCECs, which are PFCs (perfluorinated compounds) that impact the environment, throughout the lifecycle of its mass-market products, achieved here by using non-fluorinated materials.Products using the new GORE-TEX ePE membrane will be applied in many products from brands such as Adidas, ARC'TERYX, Dakine, Patagonia, Reusch, Salomon, or Ziener.

During the trading session on March 28 Eastern Time, Lululemon (NASDAQ: LULU), a Canadian high-end athletic brand, experienced a sharp drop of nearly 14.2% in its stock price, marking the largest single-day decline since March 22, 2024. According to statistics, the stock has fallen by 23.36% year-to-date, reflecting growing concerns in the capital market about the brand's prospects.The recent market turbulence stems from a significant deviation between corporate financial expectations and capital market anticipations. Although the brand's financial report for the fourth quarter and the entire fiscal year 2024, disclosed on March 27, showed excellent performance—with quarterly revenue reaching $3.61 billion (a year-on-year increase of 13%), surpassing the market estimate of $3.57 billion; and net profit recorded at $748 million (also an 11.8% year-on-year increase), which was better than expected—the management's outlook for fiscal year 2025 triggered a wave of selling from investors.According to the company's disclosure, the revenue for the first quarter of fiscal year 2025 is expected to be in the range of $2.34 billion to $2.36 billion, lower than the institutional forecast of $2.39 billion; the full-year revenue guidance of $11.15 billion to $11.3 billion also falls short of the market consensus estimate of $11.31 billion. During the investor meeting that day, CEO Calvin McDonald pointed out: "Market research shows that inflationary pressures continue to impact consumer decision-making, and customer traffic in the U.S. is showing signs of contraction." In addition, the company specifically mentioned the potential impact of Sino-U.S. trade policies on profitability.Notably, this sports brand, renowned for its thousand-yuan yoga pants (dubbed the luxury benchmark in the yoga apparel industry), is rapidly shifting its strategic focus toward the Eastern market. Data shows that the Greater China region achieved a 46% year-on-year revenue increase in the fourth quarter, with full-year growth reaching 41%, making it the core driver of global business growth. Of the 40 new stores originally planned for the 2024 fiscal year, 30 will be located in the Chinese market.At the operational strategy level, Lululemon has continued to refine its customer segmentation: initially targeting urban elite women as its core demographic, it has gradually expanded to include middle-aged men and consumer groups in lower-tier markets. According to third-party monitoring data, as of October 2024, the brand's marketing investment on platforms like Douyin and Xiaohongshu increased by 30% year-over-year to 30.45 million yuan. The content matrix primarily features fashion influencers and lifestyle bloggers, with fitness and sports creators playing a supporting role.However, China's sports consumption market is undergoing a deep adjustment. Industry data shows that during the same period, the sales of sports giant Nike in China decreased by 4% year-on-year to $1.67 billion (a 3% decline at constant exchange rates). Analysts point out that given the more than $1 billion difference in revenue scale between the two companies, direct comparisons have limited reference value, but the impact of changing market conditions on industry participants warrants continued attention.

Puma has established a partnership with REUP, taking another step towards its 2030 vision of having 30% of the polyester fabrics in its apparel made from fiber-to-fiber recycled materials. This multi-year collaboration aims to scale up circular textile solutions.Puma said that the initiative will enable textile waste to be transformed into REUP's next-generation recycled cotton fibers and recycled polyester flakes.To expand its sustainable development practices, Puma plans to introduce the RE:FIBRE project to the Americas, incorporating REUP's recycled materials into its regional production network.The collaboration between these two entities reflects their shared commitment to promoting sustainable development in the textile industry.This also aligns with Puma's "Vision 2030" sustainability goal, which emphasizes circularity.By 2030, Puma has set a goal to incorporate recycled polyester fabrics obtained through fiber-to-fiber recycling processes into 30% of its apparel collection, while planning for 20% of its cotton fabrics to be sourced from recycled materials by the end of this decade.The company aims to introduce second-hand resale and product repair service options in certain specific markets, and plans to gradually achieve 100% use of recycled polyester fabrics.Through its RE:FIBRE project, Puma has also increased its investment in textile recycling, producing millions of football jerseys with an increasingly higher proportion of recycled textiles.This project focuses on reusing polyester textile waste, such as factory offcuts, defective products, and old clothes, as the primary raw material for producing new textiles.REUP supports the RE:FIBRE project by supplying next-generation raw materials, helping PUMA reduce its reliance on recycled polyester from bottle flakes.REUP Company stated that their commitment to expanding comprehensive recycling efforts globally is based on the success of their previous collaborations.Howard Williams, Global Director of Innovation for Apparel and Accessories at PUMA, stated: "As part of our 'Vision 2030' goals, we aim to have 30% of the polyester used in our clothing derived from fiber-to-fiber recycling by 2030. Our collaboration with REUP opens up exciting possibilities for integrating recycled materials that match the quality of virgin materials into our products. These materials not only deliver the performance we require but also help us achieve our circularity objectives."REUP's recycling technology can process a wide range of textile materials, including post-consumer and industrial production waste, as well as complex blended materials like polyester-cotton and polyurethane elastic that are difficult to recycle.REUP Company uses 100% renewable energy and adopts cutting-edge technologies such as decolorization processes, setting new standards for sustainable and low-impact regenerated textile fibers.Özgür Atsan, Chief Commercial Officer of REUP, stated: "We are proud to elevate our collaboration with PUMA to a new level based on the existing partnership in the RE:FIBRE project. PUMA, as one of the most forward-thinking brands in the industry, shares our vision of narrowing the gap in the field of recycled materials.""Our products' verified quality, ability to handle various textile compositions, annual capacity of 80,000 tons, and our commitment to using renewable energy all reinforce our mission to produce next-generation materials and establish recycling as the standard in the textile industry. We are proud to define our products as next-generation materials because they are designed to meet the needs of the next generation of the textile industry."

Nike was founded in 1964, initially called Blue Ribbon Sports, by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight. In 1971, it was officially renamed Nike. The brand's core values are innovation, speed, and the sport spirit, aiming to enhance athletes' performance through high-performance products, and then expanding into fashion and lifestyle.Representative Innovation and Material ApplicationAir technology (Nike Air)The Nike Air cushioning system was invented by aerospace engineer Frank Rudy in the 1970s and first applied to the Nike Tailwind running shoe in 1978. It provides a lightweight and cushioned effect by embedding Air Sole units filled with compressed gas in the sole, enhancing comfort and rebound during running and athletic activities. TPU is the primary material for Nike Air cushions, characterized by high elasticity, wear resistance, and durability.Key Development Stage:1. **Prototyping**：在产品的概念和设计上进行实用性测试和验证。2. **Testing**：通过各种测试来确保产品的性能、安全性和可靠性。3. **Production**：生产和交付产品。4. **Launch**：在市场上推出产品。5. **Maintenance**：根据市场反应进行产品的改进和维护。6. **End-of-Life**：在产品的使用期末交付和处理。1987: Introduced Visible Air, first used in the Air Max 1, allowing consumers to directly see the air cushioning structure.1990s: Nike continuously improved the air cushion structure, introducing full-length air cushions (such as Air Max 97) and Tuned Air (such as Air Max Plus), further optimizing cushioning and support performance.2006: Introduced Air Zoom technology, providing a thinner and closer-to-the-ground cushioning experience compared to traditional Nike Air.Since 2008: Nike Air cushioning has used at least 25% recycled manufacturing waste, and all Nike Air manufacturing facilities have used 100% renewable wind energy.In 2024, the Air Max 1000 will be launched, featuring a 3D-printed Air Sole unit that further reduces material waste and enhances sustainability.Air Max 1000, a completely new 3D printed shoe model developed in collaboration with Zellerfeld, reimagines the iconic Air Max 1 and marks a new expression of Nike's signature Air technology. Source: about.nikeFLYKNITFlyknit technology is an innovative upper manufacturing process, first introduced in 2012, designed to provide a lighter, more breathable, and environmentally friendly solution for athletic footwear. Flyknit is approximately 19% lighter than traditional upper materials, enhancing athletic performance. Compared to traditional upper manufacturing, the Flyknit production process reduces material waste by approximately 60%. It reduces stitching and seams, improving durability and comfort.Development History:2012: Flyknit first applied to the Flyknit Racer, setting a new standard for woven shoe upper technology.2014: Launched Flyknit Lunar, combining lightweight foam for enhanced cushioning.In 2016, Flyknit entered the professional sports shoe market, such as in football shoes and basketball shoes, like the Mercurial Superfly and Kobe 11.2020: Introduced the Space Hippie line, with Flyknit using a higher percentage of recycled materials, further reducing the carbon footprint. Currently, approximately 50%-100% of Flyknit material comes from recycled plastic bottles, with each pair of shoes using an average of 6-7 recycled plastic bottles.2023 Nike Air VaporMax Flyknit 3D combines full-length foam cushioning and Flyknit, enhancing comfort and sustainability.NikeSkin NikeSkin is a high-performance upper material technology developed by Nike, first applied in the 2013 Hypervenom soccer shoes. This technology aims to provide better fit, flexibility, and durability while enhancing the touch performance of the footwear. NikeSkin combines a super-thin polyurethane (PU) film with highly elastic mesh, allowing the upper to snugly conform to the foot while offering strong protection and durability. NikeSkin uppers are lighter and thinner than traditional synthetic materials, and they are more abrasion-resistant compared to conventional mesh materials, making them suitable for high-intensity sports. Some versions feature an ACC (All Conditions Control) coating, which maintains stable touch and ball control performance in wet conditions.Development History:2013: First application on Hypervenom Phantom football boots, offering superior feel and flexibility.2014: Nike Skins were updated in the Magista and Mercurial series to improve breathability and ball control.2016: Combined with Flyknit, applied to Hypervenom Phantom 3, enhancing fit and comfort.2020: Developed a thinner and lighter NikeSkin for the Mercurial Vapor 14, enhancing the performance of speed-oriented players.In 2023, NikeSkin is widely used in the Tiempo Legend 9, Phantom GX football boots, enhancing ball control accuracy, and further optimizing durability and waterproof capabilities.Foaming and shock-absorbing materialsIn sneakers, there are usually Several types of foam insoles, including the pores of open-cell foam and closed-cell foam.Nike's foam materials have evolved from EVA to Phylon to Cushlon to Lunarlon to React to ZoomX, with each generation of foam improving in weight, durability, energy return, and environmental friendliness. Additionally, Nike is also actively exploring eco-friendly foams, such as Crater Foam and LanzaTech carbon-captured EVA.This Nike shoe features six different types of foam inside. Source: shoemakersacademyRepresentative Foaming Technology and MaterialsPhylonEVA, after being heated and compressed into shape, has a low cost and provides basic cushioning.Nike's former patent technology, Phylon, involves twice heating and foaming plastic particles, which are then injected into a mold under pressure and cooled. During the foaming process, the material's density can be controlled by adjusting the temperature.CushlonRubber EVA is softer than cotton canvas, has better shock absorption.LunarliteLunarlite is a lightweight foam cushioning material that is compared to EVA, which is 30% lighter than traditional EVA.Lunarlite was first applied to Hyperdunk 2008, a basketball shoe that broke performance boundaries not only on the field but also due to its historical significance and technological value. Hyperdunk 2008 was designed by Nike's renowned designer Eric Avar. The shoe was paired with Zoom Air and Flywire technology.Nike and Kobe Bryant launched the Nike Hyperdunk, Source: dexignerUnarlite is the predecessor of Lunarlon foam, and they share certain similarities in structure and performance. However, Unarlite offers higher energy return and lighter weight. Unarlite is often combined with Phylon or other firmer foams to create a dual-density cushioning system, providing better stability. Compared to the later React and ZoomX, Unarlite tends to lose its elasticity more easily when compressed and has relatively lower durability, which is why it was gradually replaced by Lunarlon.LunarlonLightweight ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) and elastic nitrile rubber (NBR) are combined to create a material with elasticity similar to that of a bouncy ball. In 2005, the Nike team used the Lunarlon cushioning prototype for the soles of their running shoes. The soft yet stable Lunarlon was injected into a firmer, more supportive Phylon foam outer shell.Nike Lunar Cross features the all-new full-palm Lunarlon cushioning system. Source: Nike Inc.React (用于日常训练、跑鞋)High durability, good cushioning and energy return, lighter than traditional foams with more持久性和更好的回弹。较传统泡棉更轻、弹性更持久。 请允许我重新翻译这段内容以确保其准确性和通顺： High durability, excellent cushioning and energy return, lighter than traditional foams with more durable elasticity.Compared to Cushion foam, React is 11% lighter and provides 13% more energy return.Nike React technology was first applied to basketball products in June 2017. The surface features a complex texture with varying depths; the deeper areas provide greater cushioning, while the shallower areas offer more support. Source: nikeincZoomXThe lightest and most energy-returning foam to date. Based on Pebax® material (polyether block amide), it features extremely high energy return and lightweight characteristics.This foam was first introduced in the Nike Zoom VaporFly 4%, which was worn by 2016 Olympic gold medalist Eliud Kipchoge when he won the Breaking2 marathon with a record time of 2 hours and 25 seconds.Crater (Eco Foam)Made from Nike Grind recycled materials (production waste), reducing carbon emissions, with a texture similar to React but slightly firmer.Crater Impact is created based on Nike's regeneration concept.LanzaTech is an American company that specializes in the production and recycling of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and other carbon products.Convert CO2 extracted from industrial waste gas into EVA foam, reducing carbon footprint, used in Nike Air Zoom Alphafly NEXT% 2 (some versions)Nike GrindNike's recycled materials collection is made up of pre-consumer manufacturing waste, post-consumer shoes from the Reuse-A-Shoe program, and unsold shoes. The purpose of Nike Grind is to eliminate waste according to the principles of sustainable fashion practices and to complete the closed loop of Nike's product lifecycle. The recycled materials include rubber, foam, fibers, leather, and textile blends, which are separated and ground into particles.Nike Grind materials are used in a range of Nike products, including footwear, apparel, and the yarns that make them. These materials are also used in running tracks, turf fields, sports court surfaces, courts, weight room floors, and carpet padding.Fitness equipmentSound absorbing materials

 In the sports goods and accessories market, product design, lifestyle concepts, and functionality are key considerations for consumers when making purchases. Currently, many sports products imported into the European market from Asia lack sufficient eco-sustainability.Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology (ICT) in Pfinztal near Karlsruhe have developed a completely new solution – a bicycle helmet made entirely of the biopolyester PLA – as part of a project funded by the Fraunhofer Foundation for the Future.Traditional bicycle helmets, while pursuing functionality, often sacrifice recyclability, resulting in a significant ecological footprint. Particularly, mass-produced petroleum-based plastic helmets in Asia, with polycarbonate (PC) shells, expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam cores, polypropylene (PP) for additional components, and nylon (PA) for straps, are difficult to recycle at the end of their product life, both technically and economically. Typically, these helmets can only be incinerated after 3-5 years of use.A deep dive into the material usage principles of various components can help explore new sustainable production methods. The PIMMS project, funded by the Fraunhofer Future Foundation, provides one such approach. The project has developed a range of sports equipment made from a single type of material, with biobased and recyclable plastic PLA demonstrating excellent performance. Thanks to its superior technical properties and competitive pricing, PLA has been established in the market for years, with its material footprint being eight times smaller than that of commonly used materials in the past.Bicycle helmets have high functional requirements, especially in terms of energy absorption and lightweight design. At the same time, comfort, price, and appearance are also critical factors that determine their market success, making them ideal prototypes for the practice of new materials and design concepts. In this market-oriented project lasting one and a half years, Fraunhofer ICT collaborated with industrial companies such as Comfil ApS, Elas A/S, WSVK, and Polyola SAS to successfully develop particle foam, thermoformed films, fibers, and composite materials made entirely from PLA. The production and processing of these materials require precise and customized process control. Through extensive collaboration, PLA helmets were able to adopt the same mass production processes as traditional petroleum-based bicycle helmets, laying the foundation for their entry into a competitive market.The durability of a single recycled plastic helmet is being tested in the environment. However, standardized external testing for proof of suitability for head protection is ongoing. Life cycle assessment (LCA) is being used to quantify improvements in the carbon footprint of the recycled single-use helmet through its production, use, and end-of-life phases, and compared with traditional plastic helmets.

Pro surfer Kelly Slater not only tested the latest surf shorts for his brand Outerknown but also helped design them himself.As the second generation Apex trunks from the brand, Outerknown's Apex Evolution Surf Trunks are the result of years of testing and designed to meet Slater's highly specific needs. In addition to three upgrades requested by the surfing GOAT himself, the updated trunks are said to be the first four-way stretch surf shorts made from Bureo's popular NetPlus material.Bureo utilizes post-consumer recycled fishing nets to create new fabrics through 100% recycling and 100% traceability practices. It partners with companies like Patagonia, Yeti, and REI to prevent fishing net waste from entering the ocean, and uses these recycled nets to produce sustainable apparel and gear.Although this approach is not new (Patagonia has supported and used Bureo's NetPlus material for over a decade), these swim trunks are among the first garments to utilize NetPlus with four-way stretch. Outerknown says the design took more than three years to perfect.second generationKelly Slater and John Moore, the Creative Director at Outerknown, founded this surf-based company with a commitment to sustainability and high performance. Relying on the previous Apex swim brief design, Slater said he wanted three upgrades: better non-slip woven drawcords, an improved waistband that tightened without bunching, and reinforced ultrasonic-welded seams to reduce chafing. "Our hearts are always in the water, and we collaborated with our friends at Bureo, utilizing their unparalleled NetPlus material made from recycled fishing nets. This results in a truly responsible swim brief that adds a little something more than the first Apex, without sacrificing any performance quality."Moore claimed that Kelly's request elevated this upgrade to "the highest performance swimwear ever."To re-submerge the recycled fishing nets back into the waterThe amount of plastic debris in oceans is estimated to have a capacity of 8.7 million tons per year. Plastic fishing nets are the most dangerous form of marine pollution from plastic debris—scientists estimate that each year, over 65,000 marine animals have been caught in them and have died or been severely injured.Bureo directly collects discarded fishing nets from the fishing community to prevent them from becoming marine waste. Bureo says that lost or damaged fishing nets are the most harmful form of marine pollution.Both Bureo and Outerknown claim that the Apex Evolution swim shorts are made from 90% recycled NetPlus nylon and 10% spandex. Outerknown collaborated closely with Bureo for over three years to ensure that the NetPlus material would perform as Slater envisioned.Reusing NetPlus fishing nets to create sustainable productsSlater said that he tested three prototypes of the new Apex Evolution swim trunks in locations such as Hawaii, Fiji, and Tahiti. Each place offers different temperatures and waves of varying sizes.The renowned ambassador also experimented with various changes, and over a period of 3 years, the Apex Evolution swim trunks evolved into the product we see today. Professional surfer Kevin Shulz claims the shorts require zero break-in. After two hours of surfing, he says he still had no rash.Kevin Ahearn, co-founder and CTO of Bureo, said, "Developing a surf short material for Kelly has been a very rewarding experience for the entire Bureo team. We were able to closely collaborate with the Outerknown team to refine the fabric blend to ensure it is durable enough to handle Kelly's demanding surfing, yet still ultra-lightweight and with the right elasticity for long wear in the ocean; we are excited to now share it with the industry. For surfers and ocean advocates like us, having Kelly lead this development is a dream come true, and we can't wait to see the evolution of this partnership."Regarding NetPlus materialNetPlus material is made from 100% recycled废弃渔网 collected from fishing communities around the world. Using recycled raw materials from abandoned fishing nets leverages existing waste, reduces the demand for virgin plastic, and prevents harmful plastic pollution from entering the world's oceans. Note: It seems there was a placeholder "废弃渔网" which I translated as "abandoned fishing nets." If you meant to include a different phrase, please clarify.Old, worn-out, and damaged fishing nets are often discarded due to a lack of disposal solutions. A company based in California called Bureo is tackling this issue by providing a more responsible alternative to raw plastic, directly collaborating with fishing communities around the world. Starting in South America, Bureo's NetPlus program has expanded to nine countries. Through their plan, fishing nets are sorted, washed, and shredded before being recycled into NetPlus, a fully traceable post-consumer material. This project prevents hundreds of tons of discarded fishing nets from ending up in oceans or landfills annually and provides additional income for coastal communities.Since 2014, Patagonia has supported Bureo in the development of NetPlus material through its venture capital fund, Tin Shed Ventures. Today, NetPlus recycled nylon and recycled HDPE are used in a range of products, from Patagonia’s caps and Down Sweater jackets to Costa sunglasses and Futures fins, and even Jenga games.By developing NetPlus with Bureo, we've supported the collection and recycling of over 1,700 metric tons of discarded fishing nets, keeping this plastic out of the ocean. While the brim is relatively simple, our material developers had to work closely with our supply chain partners to find a way to chemically transform the plastic from fishing nets into high-quality yarn that could also be used in our apparel. And now we have it. This spring 2025, over 300 metric tons of fishing nets will be woven into Patagonia gear.

On March 19, lululemon announced a multi-year partnership with ZymoChem, a biotechnology pioneer based in San Leandro, California, to help the company expand the use of bio-based nylon and enhance its leadership in sustainable innovation. lululemon and ZymoChem will jointly and sustainably transform the key components of nylon 6,6, which is the base material for many of lululemon's iconic products, including the Align and Wunder Train leggings.lululemon's collaboration with ZymoChem began last year, with initial investment aimed at supporting innovative technology to develop bio-based adipic acid—one of the key chemical components of nylon 6,6, traditionally produced from petroleum. The next phase of this collaboration will focus on scaling up ZymoChem's technology to support the commercialization of this bio-based alternative.lululemon Vice President of Raw Material Innovation Yogendra Dandapure said, "What truly sets ZymoChem apart is its groundbreaking technology capable of producing bio-based materials for the manufacture of sustainable nylon 6,6, while maintaining the look, feel, and quality expected of our high-performance products. By continuing to expand our collaboration with forward-thinking leaders like ZymoChem, we are creating multiple pathways for the transition of our entire product portfolio to sustainable materials."This collaboration builds on lululemon's work with other sustainable materials leaders, including Geno, to promote lower-impact bio-based nylon alternatives. Additionally, last year, lululemon and Australian environmental technology startup Samsara Eco launched the world's first enzymatically recycled nylon 6,6 product, proving that this high-quality, complex fiber can be recycled from textiles to textiles. This moment not only marks a milestone for the industry but also strengthens the power of collaboration in driving change.The collaboration between lululemon and ZymoChem marks an important step in the company's journey to develop more products using preferred materials and end solutions. By combining expertise in bio-based technology and raw materials, ZymoChem and lululemon will help pave the way for more sustainable high-performance apparel.ZymoChem co-founder and CEO Harshal Chokhawala said: "We have spent years perfecting our patented 'carbon-conserving' process, with the vision of developing sustainable nylon. We are very excited to deepen our cooperation with lululemon, laying the foundation for our technology to provide bio-based and decarbonized nylon on a global scale."By continuously expanding its partner portfolio, lululemon is advancing the regenerative and circular innovation of a series of materials, from bio-based nylon 6 and 6,6 to the "textile-to-textile" recycling cycle of polyester and nylon. lululemon is committed to finding next-generation solutions, pushing the boundaries of performance and material science, and leading the future of sustainable textiles.

At the JEC World exhibition held in Paris from March 4 to 6, 2025, ENGEL showcased three products that made it to the finals of the JEC Innovation Awards. The injection molding machine manufacturer, headquartered in Schwertberg, Austria, demonstrated its innovative injection molding capabilities in the field of lightweight structures. One of the highlights of the show was the live production of an innovative bicycle handlebar for Canyon Bicycles, which utilized a tie-bar-less ENGEL victory injection molding machine, combined with fluid melt process and local fiber reinforcement technology.Innovative Bicycle Handle Production: The Integration of Powerful TechnologiesOne of the main highlights of the exhibition was a newly designed bicycle handlebar produced on-site, developed in collaboration with Canyon Bicycles. The handlebar was manufactured on a tie-bar-less Engel victory 180 injection molding machine, combining Fluidmelt Technology and Organomelt Technology, and using semi-finished products reinforced with continuous fibers.Fluid Melt Technology: Flexibility of Technology and DesignFluid melting process produces hollow structures by injecting water or nitrogen. In this process, the molten core of the component is squeezed into an overflow chamber or returned to the plasticizing unit, thus forming a hollow structure inside the component. At the JEC World exhibition, this process was demonstrated using gas injection and an overflow chamber. After the cooling phase is completed, the hollow handle can be removed from the mold. Due to its geometry, this method can produce extremely lightweight structures with high bending and torsional stiffness. In fact, fluid melting is ideal for creating hollow areas, complex pipe structures, or avoiding shrinkage deformation. Fluid injection technology helps you produce molded components with significantly large or varying wall thicknesses without surface defects.Organic melting technology: stability in lightweight structuresThe use of continuous fiber reinforced semi-finished products further enhances the mechanical properties of the bicycle handle. The component itself is made of glass fiber reinforced polyamide 6 to ensure the necessary stiffness and strength. By placing 4 UD carbon fiber tapes into the mold during the injection molding process, the component, despite being a thin-walled and hollow structure, can withstand high loads. This innovation represents a significant advancement over traditional aluminum and thermoset handles, making it economically viable for production in Europe while also reducing environmental impact.

Hangzhou Jibang Weiyong Group, based on the principle of titanium dioxide releasing negative oxygen ions under natural light and combined with unique fabric design, has developed a nylon 66 titanium fiber fabric with high TiO2 content.This fabric not only provides daily protection and antibacterial effects but also achieves antibacterial, anti-stain, and deodorizing properties through nano TiO2, helping to establish a physical barrier against bacteria and viruses.Moisture-wicking and quick-dryingThe titanium fiber fabric is of micro-nano structureIt possesses superior hydrophilicityIt can quickly absorb sweat from the skin surface into the interior of the fibersand then spread it throughout the fabricincreasing the evaporation ratekeeping the skin surface non-sticky, dry, and comfortableDry and ComfortableAt the beginning of its development,the R&D team considered simulating the intelligent contraction and expansion of human skin poresso that the titanium fiber fabric would deform and elongate when wetallowing air circulation between the body and the fabricAfter summer or outdoor activities,this solves the issue of clothing sticking to the body, making the sensation more dry and comfortable