Teijin Frontier Co., Ltd. has announced the development of a next generation stretch fabric that features an ultra-fine, three-dimensional structure with randomly sized crimps. The novel construction delivers superior elasticity, softness and a lightweight feel, while also ensuring moisture-wicking and quick-drying performance.

Aimed initially at the outdoor and sportswear sectors, the new fabric is scheduled for launch in the Autumn/Winter 2026 season. Teijin Frontier also intends to broaden its use to innerwear and fashion garments, with projected sales of 100,000 metres in fiscal 2026 and one million metres by fiscal 2029.

While traditional stretch fabrics have typically relied on polyurethane, this material poses challenges related to strength, durability, weight and colourfastness. Teijin Frontier previously addressed these concerns through its Solotex-based materials made from polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT). However, evolving consumer preferences for unique textures and gentle-touch fabrics demanded a fresh approach.

Responding to this shift, the company utilised its advanced PTT spinning and drawing technologies to create an ultra-fine side-by-side conjugate yarn. By bonding two distinct PTT polymers in parallel, the yarn achieves a highly crimped and elastic form. This is then combined with high-multifilament polyester fibres using proprietary techniques to produce a sheath-core composite yarn with variable crimps. The resulting fabric boasts a textured surface with a soft, airy hand.

Key benefits of the new stretch fabric include an innovative texture with moderate firmness and drape, a near-weightless sensation against the skin, and enhanced moisture management. Furthermore, environmental credentials are addressed through the use of plant-derived raw materials in the core yarn and recycled polyester in the sheath yarn.

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