Realfleece wool-based fleece may sound like an oxymoron, but the merino wool-based fleece fabric is an alternative to the usually petroleum-based synthetic material, 'fleece,' used in the manufacture of outdoor clothing.
Polyester fleece contributes to the cycle of plastics production, disposal and waste. Realfleece wool-based fleece is natural and provides work for sheep who can be managed for eco-balance. It has been introduced by New Zealand-based 'Icebreaker' and will be making its debut in the 2010 Fall/Winter clothing line.
Implications - Do not be surprised if this form of synthetic fleece replacement takes off -- after thirty years of fluffy jackets, it's time for an upgrade.
Synthetic Fleece Replacements
Icebreaker Introduces 'Realfleece' Wool-Based Fleece Fabric
Trend Themes
1. Natural Fleece Alternatives - The rise of natural and sustainable materials in the outdoor clothing industry presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for companies looking to differentiate themselves from competitors.
2. Eco-balanced Sheep Management - The trend towards eco-friendly manufacturing methods provides a disruptive innovation opportunity for companies to explore alternatives to traditional synthetic materials that are harmful to the environment.
3. Sustainable Fashion - The trend towards sustainable and environmentally-friendly clothing presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for companies to create new products and processes that reduce waste and improve the sustainability of the fashion industry.
Industry Implications
1. Outdoor Clothing - The outdoor clothing industry has an opportunity to disrupt the market by implementing natural, sustainable materials, such as wool-based fleece, as a differentiator for their products.
2. Textile Manufacturing - Manufacturers in the textile industry can innovate by exploring new materials and production processes that contribute to eco-balance and minimize harm to the environment.
3. Sustainable Retail - The move towards sustainable fashion presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for retailers to offer eco-friendly clothing lines, new materials, and sustainable manufacturing practices to appeal to conscious consumers.