Under Armour partners with James Heal to tackle microfiber pollution
Sportswear giant Under Armour has joined forces with UK-based textile testing firm James Heal and service provider Hohenstein to make strides in combating microfiber pollution within the industry. The collaborative effort aims to widen access to Under Armour's microfibre-shed test, a simplified yet effective method to detect the shedding of textile fibres.
Over the past eight months, the partners have diligently developed and fine-tuned test kits using Under Armour's test methodology. These kits, crafted to be user-friendly and industry-ready, enable textile players to comprehensively grasp their role in contributing to the pervasive issue of microfibre pollution.
The innovative test kits facilitate a more accessible approach to understanding the impact of fabric shedding, both synthetic and natural, during various stages of production, wear, and cleaning. Under Armour's initiative aims to alleviate the considerable time and cost typically associated with integrating fibre-shed testing into industry practices.
Furthermore, Under Armour is actively pursuing measures to reduce shedding in its product lineup. A pilot program is underway to develop a reduced shedding version of its largest fleece offering, set for release in Fall/Winter 2024. Additionally, the company has provided complimentary test kits to high-volume textile mills in its global supply chain, encouraging proactive intervention in their operations.
