DuPont Industrial Biosciences and Thindown are collaborating to create what they feel is a new category of insulation that enhances its warmth, comfort and design flexibility.
Thindown said partnering with DuPont Industrial Biosciences’ Sorona fiber, a fiber made from renewable plant-based ingredients allows it to raise the performance and sustainable attributes of its down fabric. The two brands are also exploring new developments to combine the softness, drape and stretch recovery of Sorona fibers and Thindown’s proprietary process.
“We are constantly exploring new opportunities to develop and market innovative solutions across industries, and this unique collaboration underscores that commitment to delivering on both high performance and sustainability in apparel,” said Renee Henze, global marketing director for DuPont Industrial Biosciences. “The breakthrough technology of Thindown, coupled with the textile innovation of Sorona fibers, can further revolutionize down applications and create a new category of insulation.”
The blend of Sorona fibers and Thindown addresses some of the drawbacks associated with the use of traditional down filling, the companies said. The combination can reduce cold spots with a single sheet of fabric versus quilted sections, delivering greater warmth and breathability, while at the same time adding drape and stretch for improved movement.
Plus, the use of bio-based Sorona fibers brings a more sustainable insulated material option into play, since traditional down made from animal plumage or nylon requires more energy to produce.
“We are pleased to partner with DuPont, the creator of some of the world’s most outstanding fibers, to bring together the best of science and the best of nature to create the next evolution of down fabrics,” said Ronie Reuben, the inventor of Thindown.
Thindown is produced by NIPI (Natural Insulation Products Inc.) and is appropriate for use in both apparel and footwear applications.