Shima Seiki Italia + The Woolmark Company

By Knitting Industry

Shima Seiki Italia and The Woolmark Company recently united with two Italian partners, H-Dry Technology and Macpi Group, to create a new performance wear capsule collection for mountain and snow sports.

Consisting of five pieces that highlight the natural performance capabilities of Merino wool, the capsule collection is the latest showcase of knitting technology applied to skiing and snow performance wear.

Embracing Merino wool’s inherent characteristics including thermoregulation, breathability, strength, and elasticity, each garment is comprised of Woolmark-certified Merino wool yarns, harnessing the innovative potential of the 100% natural, renewable and biodegradable wool fibre.

Most pieces in the collection are created with Shima Seiki’s WHOLEGARMENT flat knitting machines, with only one seam. With the latest technology and innovative applications for the wool fibre, including 3D membrane and bonding technology, the prototype collection utilises Merino wool for both technical performance and adventure.

3D Membrane Performance Jacket – Women’s

The 3D Membrane Performance Jacket for women consists of three layers. With texture created using fancy wool blend yarn in 87% Virgin Wool in 15.5 micron blended with 13% polyamide, the internal layer consists of a Merino wool and bioceramic yarn which heightens thermoregulation properties to manage body temperature. The mid layer of the jacket consists of a membrane that enhances protection against wind and water.

Performance Jacket and Trousers – Men’s

Waterproof and breathable, the men’s performance jacket and trousers are created in 100% Virgin Wool at 15.5 micron. Made from wool – a 100% natural, biodegradable and – this outfit holds environmental stewardship in high regard.

Through using the WHOLEGARMENT knitting process, the need for cut-and-sew is eliminated. This means that only the required amount of fabric is used and ensures the ultimate in comfort with only one seam on the back of each garment.

3D Membrane Accessories

A 3D Membrane Backpack takes the concept of hybrid innovative construction techniques to the extreme. Knitted with Shima Seiki’s latest WholeGarment machine, combined with fabrics and yarns, the 3D Membrane Backpack harnesses the innovative potential of Merino wool for cutting-edge design.

3D Membrane Gloves were also produced, combining multiple innovative construction techniques. Using the latest WholeGarment knitting technology for minimised textile waste and reduced seams, as well as a 3D lamination process, three layers of fabric are combined to harness durability and warmth, hybridising innovative construction techniques for an ideal skiing and snow sport accessory.

Key partners

Shima Seiki

Shima Seiki Italia S.p.A. is a leader in the production of knitting machines. Together with Shima Seiki Italia designer, Vittorio Branchizio, the WholeGarment Knit Performance in Wool collection benefits from expert technicians that conduct the knitting phase of each garment.

H-DRY Technology

H-DRY is the most advanced technology for waterproofing outdoor products. Using direct 3D lamination of a waterproof and breathable membrane, this technique is utilised throughout the WholeGarment Knit Performance in Wool collection.

Macpi

One of the most successful companies in the production of garment industry machinery, Macpi supports the development and application of 3D membranes that are featured throughout the collection.

This article was published by Knitting Industry July 4, 2023. MACPI GROUP is a SPESA member.

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