More and more companies involved in the production of technical sportswear are turning to natural fibres and thermoregulation. We took inspiration from Q36.5 research which has developed and produced a bio-vegetable tissue.
Body thermoregulation and athletic performance, everything is connected, answer our questions Luigi Bergamo, founder, CEO and head of research and development of Q36.5.
Where did the idea of developing and producing technical garments using a fiber derived from coffee grounds come from? What are the advantages?
The idea for a new fabric always arises from close collaboration with our suppliers, with whom we develop the products. Thanks to their extensive manufacturing expertise and close dialogue, accompanied by numerous validation tests, we develop proprietary fabrics with a high degree of technological innovationThese must correspond to our needs and be aimed at satisfying our objective. That is, ensure the maintenance of the ideal body temperature at 36.5°.
Shall we give an example?
The fabric UF Hybrid Shell is made with a particular yarn of bio-vegetable origin. Technically it is a bio-polyamide, obtained from the processing of coffee bean groundsThe characteristics demonstrate a reduction of heat loss and ensure a high rate of absorption/emission of moisture before it has time to turn into sweat, through the condensation process.
Is it possible to increase the effectiveness of thermoregulation through natural fibers?
Yes and the Hybrid Shell fabric is an example of this. Used in some of our technical garments It guarantees an increase in thermal capacity of approximately 1°C compared to the previous version without the use of bio-derivatives. We then have another excellent example, the UF Active fabric, a double-layered fabric that combines very fine threads of merino wool and polyamide.
What characteristics does it have?
Used in cycling jerseys and accessories Woolf, actively reacts to temperature changes and variations in pedaling intensity to maintain comfort at all times. Merino wool on the inner surface of the fabric absorbs sweat and retains heat, even in humid conditions, while the polyamide outer fabric helps wick away moisture. Natural fibers are combined with synthetic fibers to get the best functionality from each type.. Furthermore, the shuttle construction of both fabrics and their very tightly woven structure makes them natural barriers against the wind, without the need to use membranes.
How much Made in Italy is there in all this?
Q36.5 chooses to develop and implement all its fabrics in Italy.
Body temperature and performance. How important is optimal thermoregulation for an athlete's performance?
There is no performance without thermoregulation. Thermoregulation goes beyond the concept of performance, because it also guarantees well-being and healthThe real objective of technical garments, of any type and used in sports, for cycling, running and cross-country skiing, or in mountaineering, should be to ensure the stability of body temperature. Those who focus on cooling or warming the body end up losing sight of the most important factor, which is the maintain a constant and balanced temperature and microclimate body throughout the entire sporting activity. At Q36.5, we believe it is essential to ensure stable body temperature throughout the entire activity, to allow the athlete to be in the best condition to perform at their best.
