Nike’s New Apparel Line is Latest Move Toward Sustainability
The focus on sustainability in the apparel industry continues to be a hot topic, with many manufacturers implementing various strategies in both production and business practices to improve their footprints. Over the past few years, sportswear giant Nike is just one brand that has put a lot of effort into sustainability, and now, it is set to drop a new line as part of its strategy.
The brand recently announced Nike Forward, an apparel collection that takes the approach of a reduced footprint. According to the company, “The inaugural collection is made with an average of 75% less carbon compared to our traditional knit fleece. … It’s a futuristic material made from ultra-thin, needle-punched layers.” The collection will contain a Therma-FIT ADV layer for added warmth without unnecessary weight, adds Nike.
The apparel is created using a punch-needle machine, which according to an article shared by Gear Patrol, helps reduce the amount of steps needed to achieve the end product. The fibers contained within Nike Forward are turned directly into textile through the needle-punching process, similar to those used in the automotive and medical spaces. Ultimately, this boils down to reduction: fewer steps equal less energy consumption.
The pieces — which currently include gray pullover hoodies and crewnecks for both men and women — come manufactured with 70% recycled content by weight, furthering Nike’s commitment to sustainability. Nike Forward items may be made with various layers such as industrial and post-consumer waste in the future, according to an article on Hypebeast.
Even the seemingly small design choices follow the path of sustainability. Choices such as raw edge pockets, exposed seams, and other intentional design decisions contribute to the ease of recycling the apparel in the future. Nike notes that embellishments like zippers, aglets, or extra trims were intentionally left off.
While the apparel giant is launching with hoodie and crew styles on Sept. 15, it has not ruled out other styles from being manufactured with this material in the future.
