Wearable textile technologies on show at major trade fairs this February

As the popularity of our well-being and the importance of sports continue to infiltrate our daily life, it has given textile and fibre technology producers the impetus to continue to research and develop new techno-infused qualities.  Such new developments have provided new avenues of enriched offerings for global fashion and sportswear brands to meet the growing demand of well-being-minded consumers.

At major trade fairs in February including Premiere Vision Paris and ISPO Munich, Swiss company Schoeller Textil AG will present a development in the field of wearable textile technologies: a durable, heatable  e-soft-shell material which can be flexibly cut to size. 

This new laminate is structured like a conventional soft-shell with corkshell™ technology and can be produced for sale by the meter. The incorporated textile electronics permit consistent heat distribution and are functional at common voltages. Furthermore, the material can be dyed and washed. The vision for the future of the e-soft-shell material includes washable electrical contacting, smart batteries and sensor technology that operates by smartphone. A prototype vest in the new e-soft-shell fabric (see picture left) will be shown at the respective trade fairs to potential customers.

An additional e-textile project:Together with the companies KJUS and Osmotex, as well as the EMPA Institute, Schoeller is also working on an electro-osmotic membrane for use in outerwear. The aim is to ensure a pleasant microclimate in the face of fluctuating external temperatures and exercise level.