Functional apparel is the target market for new Teijin dual-layer material
High-performance materials group Teijin has announced a new material for active and functional apparel that it says will offer “next-generation comfort”.
The group’s fibre division, Teijin Frontier, has developed a material that combines contact cooling functionality with prevention of stickiness from sweat.
It features a dual-layer, knit structure. The inner layer alternates a newly developed hydrophobic version of a yarn called Waveron, and a conventional hydrophilic version of the same yarn.
The hydrophilic layer absorbs perspiration, while the hydrophobic layer prevents it from adhering to the skin to keep the wearer dry. The outer layer disperses absorbed perspiration to the outside.
These yarns are developed from 100% recycled polyester and feature water-repellent technology made without per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
Waveron yarn contains titanium oxide, which promotes a cooling sensation as heat is transferred from the skin to the fibre. It has a flat, cross-sectional shape that increases the skin contact area. Additionally, this non-crimped yarn maximises the air gaps between fibres, offering high breathability.
Teijin Frontier plans to promote and sell the material as a fabric for 2026 spring-summer sports and outdoor apparel collections. Its initial target is to sell 100,000 metres of the material. Subsequently, it will expand into functional apparel such as fashion clothing. By fiscal 2028, Teijin Frontier expects to sell 1 million metres of this material per year.
