Casa da Malha and Lacatoni road test PEF fibre releaf

21/07/2026
Casa da Malha and Lacatoni road test PEF fibre releaf

Dutch polymer specialist Avantium has been developing a novel PEF fibre, a biobased polyethylene furanoate or PEF, that it believes offers an alternative to polyester derived from renewable feedstocks. Branded releaf, the fibre is said to have “an attractive combination of sustainability and performance characteristics, including excellent mechanical properties”. 

Premium circular knit manufacturer Casa da Malha, based in Portugal, has worked with local sportswear brand Lacatoni to create a series of prototypes made from releaf. Lacatoni specialises in teamwear and performance clothing.

The collection was showcased at Milano Unica earlier this month. 

Photo courtesy of Lacatoni, Casa de Malha and Avantium