Sportswear is now an indispensable part of the fashion world. Recently, a fabric that has attracted attention is Tencel. Let's delve a little deeper into Tencel: where does it come from and what makes it so sustainable?
History of Tencel
The history of Tencel traces back to the 1970s when the idea originated at the Austrian company Lenzing AG. However, it wasn't until the 1990s that this fabric truly made its debut as a commercial product. Why? Because Tencel provided an answer to the growing concern over the ecological impact of traditional textile production processes.
Difference between Tencel and Lyocell
While the terms Tencel and Lyocell are often used interchangeably, there is a subtle difference. Tencel is a specific fabric produced by a company called Lenzing AG, while Lyocell is the generic name for that fabric which can also be produced by other companies.
What is Lyocell
Lyocell is an artificial fiber regenerated from wood pulp. What sets this sustainable fiber amongs others apart from others is the production process. Lyocell is manufactured through a closed-loop process, meaning solvents are not discarded but rather reused in subsequent cycles. This makes the production process more environmentally friendly compared to traditional methods.
What is it made of
Lyocell is made from wood pulp, typically sourced from fast-growing trees such as eucalyptus, beech, and pine. The use of renewable raw materials contributes to the sustainability of the fiber. Lenzing produces Tencel from certified forests.
Pros and Cons of Tencel
Pros
Soft and comfortable: Tencel feels silky smooth and has high breathability, transforming every sports activity into a comfortable experience.
Moisture regulation: It efficiently absorbs moisture, making it suitable for intensive sports activities. Goodbye, stuffiness!
Environmentally friendly: Tencel is not only gentle on your skin but also on the planet. The wood pulp is circular and minimizes environmental impact, partly due to the closed production process.
Cons
Cost: Okay, Tencel might be slightly more expensive than the average fiber. But, it's an investment in comfort and sustainability.
Shrinking: Tencel tends to shrink if not handled lovingly during washing. So, be cautious with those washing instructions.
Sustainability Aspects
Tencel is highly regarded for its sustainability. The production process requires less water and chemicals than conventional methods. Moreover, it is biodegradable, meaning it has less impact on the environment at the end of its lifespan.
Conclusion
In short, the future of sustainable sportswear looks promising thanks to Tencel. At Natural Born Sportswear, we embrace this development and we are proud to choose Tencel. Why? Because it offers the perfect combination of comfort, top performance, and a production process that benefits our planet.