Yaser Riaz, former Head of Research & Innovation and currently leading Seamless Activewear at Interloop, confirmed that, “Leveraging our process expertise from spinning to knitting to processing, we have developed trademarked knit structures and special dyeing techniques, enabling us to create products which offer ultimate comfort and performance.” 

 

The vertically integrated business is also looking to expand adoption of Hyperglide^TM, their proprietary topical friction reduction treatment which reduces the coefficient of friction by up to 40% ². For endurance athletes such as hikers, trekkers, cross-country skiers, and marathon runners, less friction between their feet and socks means less toll on the foot and fewer blisters.

 

Focusing on delivering high quality products engineered to improve performance and efficiency has helped the company develop extensive strategic partnerships. They are now a multi-category manufacturer for sports giants including Nike, Adidas, Puma, Reebok, and Prince. Speaking about the relationships Interloop has fostered based on a culture of innovation, Vice President of Sales and Marketing Faryal Sadiq said “Our partnership with top athletic brands has meant consistent investment in research, innovation and people, enabling us to create consumer-led, purposeful products. We can now offer this expertise across a range of categories including, hosiery, underwear, apparel, activewear and denim products.”

In European and North American markets, Interloop’s high performance socks are recognized by partner brands for their mesh knit structures which provide athletes a lightweight feel and improved air flow. The use of specialized knit construction techniques allows for seam-free toes, arch support, and heel guards for a more secure, robust, and comfortable end product. 

Where consumers need durability and comfort in endurance activities like trekking and hiking, Interloop also produces socks constructed with compression fabric, featuring arch and ankle support, and incorporating anti-microbial and anti-odour technologies. Combining different yarns such as Merino wool, Thermolite^®, and nylon has proven popular in running and training socks. 

Branching out from socks to activewear

The athleisure market, with its blending of performance and fashion provided Interloop another opportunity to innovate. The demand for athleisure has grown at incredible rates, continuing through the global pandemic—consumers facing lockdowns, remote work, and the closure of commercial gyms needed comfortable and stylish athletic apparel that could do it all.

Embracing this trend, Interloop is using its proprietary dying techniques, multi-blend materials, and state-of-the-art manufacturing to produce seamless garments. Sadiq confirmed that “While hosiery has been our flagship category, we have now diversified into seamless activewear and apparel using our knowledge and manufacturing expertise.”

Investing in technology, research and innovation, and workforce capacity development is allowing the company to produce seamless apparel with multiple fabric constructions within the same panel, all while retaining a high degree of breathability and 360-degree stretch. These flexible production techniques enable production of garments for different sizes, genders, and construction requirements. Seamless construction lets Interloop hit lower minimum order quantities with shorter lead times than were possible with traditional cut-and-sew manufacturing techniques.

For high performance activities, garments made with body mapping technology to meet the requirements of different body zones are ideal. Highly breathable sections for improved airflow and temperature management, moisture wicking capabilities, and seamless stretchable sections ensure comfort even in intense conditions. Interloop also offers an expanding range of performance finishes such as moisture management, anti-microbial, skin moisturizing, and anti-UV to further enhance the functionality of activewear. 

Vision for the future

Interloop is now positioned as a true full family clothing supplier offering multi-category products across all ages, genders, and abilities. They see the global athleisure market as an incredible opportunity for expansion and technological innovation. 

The company has full-fledged manufacturing capability in producing socks, denim, knitted apparel, and seamless activewear. With seven facilities globally, Interloop is a fully vertically integrated business. Starting from raw material sourcing, Interloop carries out their own air covering of fine yarns, filament dyeing, spun yarn dyeing, knitting, garment dyeing, sewing, finishing and packing, warehousing, and logistical support.

In their Vision 2025, the company’s goal to grow into a full family clothing partner of choice is led by their heavy investment and expansion plans for each product category. This vision highlights Interloop’s aspirations to continue leading industry standards in responsible business practices, with a view to contribute to continual progress of all its partners and the communities they serve.

The plan to operationalize this Vision is underpinned by a three-pronged focus on people, digital transformation, and agile manufacturing ³. With a people-first approach, concurrent innovations in sustainability and efficiency, and an unwavering focus on technological growth, Interloop is an innovator to watch.

 

[1] “ArikoolTM Booklet.” Interloop Limited, Research & Innovation Centre, Document Reference # 1311-26-01
[2] “HyperglideTM.” Interloop Limited, Research & Innovation Centre, Document Reference #14066.
[3] “Vision 2025.” Interloop Limited.