Materials That Redefine the Rules: 3 Innovations for Comfort and Performance
The evolution of materials represents one of the most dynamic and promising areas for improving the performance and comfort of products intended for body protection. Discoveries in materials not only offer new aesthetic and functional opportunities, but also address challenges related to sustainability, durability, efficiency and well-being. From conductive fabrics that make the integration of wearable technologies possible, to high-performance elastomers for safety, support and impact protection, advances in this field open up new horizons in many areas.
Let’s take a look at some examples from the Material ConneXion database, which is always up-to-date on the latest trends in innovative materials.
Conductive Fabrics for Functional Clothing
Functionalisation of textiles to impart thermal or electrical conductivity properties is traditionally done through the use of yarns or prints containing conductive materials such as metals, carbon, graphene, etc. This Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) process, on the other hand, deposits a conductive polymer layer of only 1.5µ, transforming the base fabric into a strong, electrically conductive material without adding weight or volume, and maintaining the flexibility and lightness of the original material. The result is lightweight, breathable and washable e-textiles with which they can create smart clothing with health-monitoring functionality, or systems to detect body temperature, through to active heating devices.
Ideal for athletes operating in extreme climatic conditions or for workers in critical environments, they improve not only physical performance but also personal well-being. Conductive fabrics can be washed, ironed and worn like any other garment, without compromising their functionality.
High Performance Elastomer Protective Elements
These are flexible moulded parts, whose structure reacts to the speed of impact, offering support and impact protection when integrated into equipment or clothing, ensuring lightness and comfort. Made from a combination of thermoplastic polymers and advanced additives, they feature a three-dimensional surface inspired by nature, capable of absorbing energy and distributing the force of impacts. This makes them particularly effective for protectors such as knee pads, helmets and bulletproof vests.
The technology also allows customisation of the material properties: thickness, geometry and composition can be optimised to meet the specific needs of each user. The ability to combine protection and comfort makes them a functional solution for those working in physically demanding sectors, such as sports and industrial work.
3D knitted fabric
A very interesting area in which design is intertwined with the opportunities offered by the new knitting machines is that of three-dimensional fabrics, which can be designed to fit the body perfectly and to create differentiated structures in terms of flaties, colours and performance. This series of fabrics specifically combines different fibres such as Tencel™, merino wool, polypropylene and Lycra® to offer a unique mix of elasticity, thermal comfort and moisture management.
The structure of these materials is designed to work in synergy with the body’s movements, offering targeted compression that improves muscle function and promotes circulation. This helps to reduce recovery time and stabilise joints, preventing injuries. The gradient design allows for differentiated cushioning and support zones, making these constructions ideal for technical clothing, sports shoes or technical gloves. In addition, the fabrics can be customised in colours and patterns, meeting both functional and aesthetic requirements.
