Latest Print Issue

Welcome Circular; Goodbye Take, Make & Dispose

Emily Walzer
October 2021

The drumbeat for greater industry alignments and stronger collaborative partnerships has grown louder and the engines of eco-innovation are making noise on many fronts within the industry. We’re seeing successes in cutting edge technology and integration of forward-thinking design principles.

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Good & Clean

Emily Walzer
October 2021

Sustainability has sparked a surge in responsible developments in functional fabrications in recent years, and continues to serve as a strong market driver. Yet despite recent advances in PFC-free and bio-based textile solutions, belief remains, that going “green” means giving up performance.

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Passion for the Planet

Suzanne Blecher
October 2021

We recently caught up with a couple of eco experts who are doing important work in developing new ways to improve textile recycling and the problem of waste along with identifying new material alternatives that are better for the environment.

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Generating Green Advantages

Emily Walzer
October 2021

Sustainability is nothing new at Milliken & Company. The business was green when green was just a color in the rainbow. Founded in 1865, the company had a recycling policy in place in the 1900s and has been reporting on water usage and waste for decades all the while advocating for worker safety.

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Carbon Control

Formula4 Staff
October 2021

Momentum to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and curb environmental impacts is gaining traction as shoe brands re-evaluate processes and materials. Carbon is a key talking point this season with carbon offsets, carbon neutrality and carbon negative labeling all coming into play...

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Rising Up Post Pandemic

Louisa Smith
October 2021

Serving in the past as an accelerant after the long European summer holidays, Munich Fabric Start has been a favorite of mine. The fair kickstarted the show season and got me in the mood for work, especially before the onslaught of the supersize shows later in the Fall season.

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Sustainability = Usefulness

Kurt Gray
October 2021

I once sold a tent to a middle-age woman. After careful consideration and obvious consternation, she arrived at an expensive and extremely well made choice. With the high-tech shelter rolled up snug in its stuff sack on the counter between us, she sighed and said something...

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Textile Insight

Magazine Archives

Five Factors Influencing Market Dynamics

By 
Formula4 Staff
July 2021

A dozen companies participated in our Altered States coverage, with execs taking time out of their busy days (“hectic” was often used to describe workday schedules) to respond to our questions. Here’s what they had to say about new ways of conducting business, while missing face-to-face experiences.

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Tailored for Today

By 
Emily Walzer
July 2021

The origins of clothing sizes dates back to the 1800s with military uniforms for men, and slowly evolved into the domestic market. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) ushered in the next wave of sizing reform with a yearlong study titled Women’s Measurements for Garment and...

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Industry Wants To Know

By 
Emily Walzer
July 2021

When the demand for masks and gowns was off the charts, in response to the COVID pandemic surge for personal protective equipment, the domestic textile industry mobilized. Companies invested in materials, created capacity, converted production lines and pumped out PPE like nobody’s business.

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Security Meets Sustainability

By 
Emily Walzer
July 2021

While some pinpoint the Rana Plaza factory collapse tragedy as the tipping point, and others cite the impact of the pandemic as the real change-maker, all agree that the era of textile traceability has arrived.

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Hip Hemp

By 
Emily Walzer
July 2021

Hemp is riding high this season, and for good reason. The natural fiber is durable, earth-friendly and hits the mark with multi-purpose functionality that includes inherent antimicrobial properties — all attributes top of mind with today’s active outdoorists.

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All Together Now

By 
Suzanne Blecher
July 2021

2020 was a year for family. As the world was turned upside down, we went outside to right ourselves and let loose. According to the 2021 Outdoor Participation Trends Report (commissioned by the Outdoor Foundation), 53 percent of Americans ages six and over participated in outdoor recreation...

Read More
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PrimaLoft Targets Consumers in “Seek the Unseen” Ad

Emily Walzer
October 18, 2021

PrimaLoft’s first consumer-orientated brand campaign, “Seek the Unseen,” debuted last week and focuses on the unexpected, emotional moments of everyday life that often go unnoticed. “While we may be hidden from sight, we have a direct effect on the consumer experience,” explains Mike Joyce...

Read More

Noble Biomaterials Finds Head Space in Bike, Snow

By 
Emily Walzer
October 18, 2021

Responding to consumer demands for cleaner, longer lasting antimicrobial technology, Noble Biomaterials offers a suite of treatments within its Ionic+ collection. The company reports that its newly branded antimicrobial is experiencing rapid growth within the helmet space garnering support from...

Read More

ISKO Innovates Wellness Product for Apparel

By 
Emily Walzer
October 18, 2021

Global denim ingredient brand ISKO will introduce ISKO RHEACT, a patented, cutting-edge garment manufacturing solution designed for wellness benefits through the application of woven compression. The different patented fabric options ensure that it will appeal to a wide audience.

Read More

Dimension-Polyant Achieves Sustainability Goals

By 
Emily Walzer
October 18, 2021

Leading sailcloth manufacturer and developer of X-Pac performance pack fabrics, Dimension Polyant, has unveiled a new cradle-to-gate cleenTEC seal and prioritized a sustainability program around climate-neutrality, sustainably sourced materials, longevity of product and recycling methods for...

Read More

A Quick Spin Around the Marketplace

By 
Emily Walzer
October 18, 2021

Microban International has named Michael Ruby president of the corporation and Graham Harvey as senior director of business development for the global built-in business. The team also welcomes Bart Kennedy as the new senior director of business development leading the global textiles team.

Read More

Textile Insight

EXTRA Archives

ISPO Textrends Showcases Best Products Spring/Summer ‘23

By 
Louisa Smith
September 28, 2021

Post pandemic awareness of the importance and benefit of sport and outdoor activities for physical and mental wellbeing is being embraced by consumers. The outcome for the sports and outdoors industry is positive, with growth expected as consumers pursue a more active lifestyle.

Pertex Introduces Pertex Shield Revolve

By 
Emily Walzer
September 28, 2021

Pertex has introduced a more sustainable and technical waterproof/breathable material called Pertex Shield Revolve. The fabrics are mono-material laminates where each layer of the fabric is made from a single polymer, in this case, 100 percent recycled polyester.

How Thrift Evolved to Responsible Retail

By 
Emily Walzer
September 28, 2021

In case you hadn’t noticed, the resale market is surging. According to reports, second-hand retail is the fastest growing segment of the fashion industry. Everyone is getting onboard: The recent Madewell x ThredUp partnership is a perfect example of next-gen second-hand selling with...

Footwear Suppliers Achieve a Lighter Eco Footprint

By 
Emily Walzer
September 28, 2021

Momentum to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and curb environmental impacts is gaining traction as shoe brands re-evaluate processes and materials and pick up the pace to reach corporate sustainability goals.

Eco Emerges at Techtextil North America Trade Show

By 
Emily Walzer
August 30, 2021

How to foster a cleaner, greener future for the industry was a hot topic at Techtextil North America 2021 last week at the Raleigh Convention Center where panel discussions during symposiums and conversations in the exhibitor aisles left little doubt that sustainability is defining the way forward.

Digital Innovations Advance Successfully, and Slowly

By 
Emily Walzer
August 30, 2021

We’ve been hearing about digitalization for years, and while COVID did kickstart a slew of new adoptions, full acceptance of digital models throughout the textile industry has yet to materialize.

The Show Itself: Positive & Productive

By 
Emily Walzer
August 30, 2021

After 18 months of life being anything but business as usual, attendees at Techtextil NA in Raleigh last week expressed being happy to be back on the trade show circuit, reconnecting with industry friends and making new business contacts.

A Road Warrior Reports on his OR Experience

By 
Jeff Nott, Publisher
August 30, 2021

I traveled to Denver for the Outdoor Retailer Show not really sure what to expect. When I got there, it was quite an eye-opener. The entire show was held on the upper level. Even that hall was not filled.

Joachim Kath Takes the Helm at Schoeller Textil AG

By 
Emily Walzer
July 26, 2021

In a shift in leadership, Joachim Kath takes over as Schoeller Textil CEO. Following a 10-year career at the Swiss-based, global textile specialist, CEO Siegfried Winkelbeiner is retiring and Kath will take the helm, having worked closely with Winkelbeiner as COO at Schoeller since February 2020.

Cordura Collab in FR Development

By 
Emily Walzer
July 26, 2021

Cordura, in collaboration with FR specialist Daletec, has launched Extreme X fabric, which features inherent flame protection with excellent comfort and long-lasting performance.

Noble Biomaterials Finds Head Space in Bike, Snow

By 
Emily Walzer
October 18, 2021

Responding to consumer demands for cleaner, longer lasting antimicrobial technology, Noble Biomaterials offers a suite of treatments within its Ionic+ collection. The company reports that its newly branded antimicrobial is experiencing rapid growth within the helmet space garnering support from...

Read More

ISKO Innovates Wellness Product for Apparel

By 
Emily Walzer
October 18, 2021

Global denim ingredient brand ISKO will introduce ISKO RHEACT, a patented, cutting-edge garment manufacturing solution designed for wellness benefits through the application of woven compression. The different patented fabric options ensure that it will appeal to a wide audience.

Read More

Dimension-Polyant Achieves Sustainability Goals

By 
Emily Walzer
October 18, 2021

Leading sailcloth manufacturer and developer of X-Pac performance pack fabrics, Dimension Polyant, has unveiled a new cradle-to-gate cleenTEC seal and prioritized a sustainability program around climate-neutrality, sustainably sourced materials, longevity of product and recycling methods for...

Read More

A Quick Spin Around the Marketplace

By 
Emily Walzer
October 18, 2021

Microban International has named Michael Ruby president of the corporation and Graham Harvey as senior director of business development for the global built-in business. The team also welcomes Bart Kennedy as the new senior director of business development leading the global textiles team.

Read More

ISPO Textrends Showcases Best Products Spring/Summer ‘23

By 
Louisa Smith
September 28, 2021

Post pandemic awareness of the importance and benefit of sport and outdoor activities for physical and mental wellbeing is being embraced by consumers. The outcome for the sports and outdoors industry is positive, with growth expected as consumers pursue a more active lifestyle.

Read More

Pertex Introduces Pertex Shield Revolve

By 
Emily Walzer
September 28, 2021

Pertex has introduced a more sustainable and technical waterproof/breathable material called Pertex Shield Revolve. The fabrics are mono-material laminates where each layer of the fabric is made from a single polymer, in this case, 100 percent recycled polyester.

Read More

Textile Insight

EXTRA Archives

Digital Innovations Advance Successfully, and Slowly

By 
Emily Walzer
August 30, 2021

We’ve been hearing about digitalization for years, and while COVID did kickstart a slew of new adoptions, full acceptance of digital models throughout the textile industry has yet to materialize.

The Show Itself: Positive & Productive

By 
Emily Walzer
August 30, 2021

After 18 months of life being anything but business as usual, attendees at Techtextil NA in Raleigh last week expressed being happy to be back on the trade show circuit, reconnecting with industry friends and making new business contacts.

A Road Warrior Reports on his OR Experience

By 
Jeff Nott, Publisher
August 30, 2021

I traveled to Denver for the Outdoor Retailer Show not really sure what to expect. When I got there, it was quite an eye-opener. The entire show was held on the upper level. Even that hall was not filled.

Joachim Kath Takes the Helm at Schoeller Textil AG

By 
Emily Walzer
July 26, 2021

In a shift in leadership, Joachim Kath takes over as Schoeller Textil CEO. Following a 10-year career at the Swiss-based, global textile specialist, CEO Siegfried Winkelbeiner is retiring and Kath will take the helm, having worked closely with Winkelbeiner as COO at Schoeller since February 2020.

Cordura Collab in FR Development

By 
Emily Walzer
July 26, 2021

Cordura, in collaboration with FR specialist Daletec, has launched Extreme X fabric, which features inherent flame protection with excellent comfort and long-lasting performance.

HDry North America Launches Bio-Based Laminate Membrane

By 
Emily Walzer
July 26, 2021

The debut of HDry ‘b5’ bio-based membrane represents another step forward in sustainable footwear development. Announced by Altexa sri and GHS Holdings, the new eco-friendly waterproof/ breathable laminate offers the opportunity to reduce dependence from fossil fuels on...

Norda Launches Running Shoe with bio-based Dyneema fiber

By 
Emily Walzer
July 26, 2021

“When we set out to create the norda 001, our mission was to design an ultra-strong and durable high performance trail running shoe, and do it as sustainably as possible,” state Willamina and Nick Martire, co-founders of the Canadian footwear brand norda.

ISKO Closes the Loop on Denim

By 
Emily Walzer
July 26, 2021

The denim world continues to transform how jeans are made, and re-made, in an effort to create a circular economy for clothing, from fiber to finished goods and around again.

Trade Shows: Who's Going, Where & When?

By 
Emily Walzer
June 21, 2021

Trade show participation has long been a given, with convention center hotels booked a year — or two — in advance, dinner reservations coordinated, calendars cleared, and travel go-bags at the ready.

Speedo on the Fast Track to Tokyo

By 
Emily Walzer
June 21, 2021

Speedo looks to make waves at the Olympic Games this summer with the debut of the company’s next generation Fastskin swimsuit. In an innovation journey that spanned four continents over the course of three years, including 330 swimmers, 200 prototypes, 30 swim clubs and 15 coaches...

Noble Biomaterials Finds Head Space in Bike, Snow

By 
Emily Walzer
October 18, 2021

Responding to consumer demands for cleaner, longer lasting antimicrobial technology, Noble Biomaterials offers a suite of treatments within its Ionic+ collection. The company reports that its newly branded antimicrobial is experiencing rapid growth within the helmet space garnering support from...

Read More

ISKO Innovates Wellness Product for Apparel

By 
Emily Walzer
October 18, 2021

Global denim ingredient brand ISKO will introduce ISKO RHEACT, a patented, cutting-edge garment manufacturing solution designed for wellness benefits through the application of woven compression. The different patented fabric options ensure that it will appeal to a wide audience.

Read More

Dimension-Polyant Achieves Sustainability Goals

By 
Emily Walzer
October 18, 2021

Leading sailcloth manufacturer and developer of X-Pac performance pack fabrics, Dimension Polyant, has unveiled a new cradle-to-gate cleenTEC seal and prioritized a sustainability program around climate-neutrality, sustainably sourced materials, longevity of product and recycling methods for...

Read More

A Quick Spin Around the Marketplace

By 
Emily Walzer
October 18, 2021

Microban International has named Michael Ruby president of the corporation and Graham Harvey as senior director of business development for the global built-in business. The team also welcomes Bart Kennedy as the new senior director of business development leading the global textiles team.

Read More

ISPO Textrends Showcases Best Products Spring/Summer ‘23

By 
Louisa Smith
September 28, 2021

Post pandemic awareness of the importance and benefit of sport and outdoor activities for physical and mental wellbeing is being embraced by consumers. The outcome for the sports and outdoors industry is positive, with growth expected as consumers pursue a more active lifestyle.

Read More

Pertex Introduces Pertex Shield Revolve

By 
Emily Walzer
September 28, 2021

Pertex has introduced a more sustainable and technical waterproof/breathable material called Pertex Shield Revolve. The fabrics are mono-material laminates where each layer of the fabric is made from a single polymer, in this case, 100 percent recycled polyester.

Read More

Textile Insight

EXTRA Archives

PrimaLoft Targets Consumers in “Seek the Unseen” Ad

By 
Emily Walzer
Oct 18, 2021

PrimaLoft’s first consumer-orientated brand campaign, “Seek the Unseen,” debuted last week and focuses on the unexpected, emotional moments of everyday life that often go unnoticed. “While we may be hidden from sight, we have a direct effect on the consumer experience,” explains Mike Joyce...

Read More

Noble Biomaterials Finds Head Space in Bike, Snow

By 
Emily Walzer
Oct 18, 2021

Responding to consumer demands for cleaner, longer lasting antimicrobial technology, Noble Biomaterials offers a suite of treatments within its Ionic+ collection. The company reports that its newly branded antimicrobial is experiencing rapid growth within the helmet space garnering support from...

Read More

ISKO Innovates Wellness Product for Apparel

By 
Emily Walzer
Oct 18, 2021

Global denim ingredient brand ISKO will introduce ISKO RHEACT, a patented, cutting-edge garment manufacturing solution designed for wellness benefits through the application of woven compression. The different patented fabric options ensure that it will appeal to a wide audience.

Read More

Dimension-Polyant Achieves Sustainability Goals

By 
Emily Walzer
Oct 18, 2021

Leading sailcloth manufacturer and developer of X-Pac performance pack fabrics, Dimension Polyant, has unveiled a new cradle-to-gate cleenTEC seal and prioritized a sustainability program around climate-neutrality, sustainably sourced materials, longevity of product and recycling methods for...

Read More

A Quick Spin Around the Marketplace

By 
Emily Walzer
Oct 18, 2021

Microban International has named Michael Ruby president of the corporation and Graham Harvey as senior director of business development for the global built-in business. The team also welcomes Bart Kennedy as the new senior director of business development leading the global textiles team.

Read More

ISPO Textrends Showcases Best Products Spring/Summer ‘23

By 
Louisa Smith
Sep 28, 2021

Post pandemic awareness of the importance and benefit of sport and outdoor activities for physical and mental wellbeing is being embraced by consumers. The outcome for the sports and outdoors industry is positive, with growth expected as consumers pursue a more active lifestyle.

Read More

Pertex Introduces Pertex Shield Revolve

By 
Emily Walzer
Sep 28, 2021

Pertex has introduced a more sustainable and technical waterproof/breathable material called Pertex Shield Revolve. The fabrics are mono-material laminates where each layer of the fabric is made from a single polymer, in this case, 100 percent recycled polyester.

Read More

How Thrift Evolved to Responsible Retail

By 
Emily Walzer
Sep 28, 2021

In case you hadn’t noticed, the resale market is surging. According to reports, second-hand retail is the fastest growing segment of the fashion industry. Everyone is getting onboard: The recent Madewell x ThredUp partnership is a perfect example of next-gen second-hand selling with...

Read More

FOOTWEAR INSIGHT INDEX

With the second quarter closing next week, ominous signs remain for the U.S. economy in this persistent pandemic environment as the number of active U.S. cases rose for a 10th straight day on June 22 to 1.26 million and 23 states reported increases in the number of cases. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the U.S. economy will generate $8 trillion less in economic activity over the next decade than it predicted months ago. And a report in The Atlantic suggests four factors — a great business die-off, the household fiscal cliff, state and local budget shortfalls and the persistent pandemic crisis — put the U.S. risk for a depression. Amid this backdrop, the Dow generated nearly 59 percent of its weekly 261.80-point gain for the week on the period’s final day, June 22. The action helped the Dow post a 1.02 percent increase for the period, about even with the Segment’s 1.06 percent increase as 12 stocks rose and eight declined. Aside from Mizuno, which benefited from currency effects, Nike and Deckers were the period’s biggest gainers. The Swoosh received four stock price target hikes from investment banks ahead of its scheduled fourth-quarter earnings report on June 25. Meanwhile, Nike and Puma are merging running technology and style into styles for the golf course, including The Cat’s RS-G and The Swoosh’s Air Max 270. Shoe Carnival reported that its 389 re-opened U.S. and Puerto Rico stores experienced a 28.1 percent rise in second quarter comparable store sales through  June 22, with brick-and-mortar up 4.0 percent and e-commerce gaining nearly 470 percent year-over-year. Under Armour Founder Kevin Plank has sold his Washington, D.C. mansion for $17.3 million after a reported two years on the market at a 41 percent discount from his 2018 asking price of $29.5 million. — Bob McGee 
The Footwear Insight Index tracks 20 of the most important publicly traded companies that have a substantial footwear business (6 retailers, 14 brands).
Index base of 100 is key to the closing prices of 12/29/17

INDEX: 123

1.06%

Weekly Review

Company name
(Ticker Symbol)

% Change over week
Price 06/15/20 • Price 06/22/20

ASICS Corp.
7936.T

0.35%

$11.38 • $11.34

Boot Barn
BOOT

1.09%

$22.84 • $22.59

Crocs
CROX

2.46%

$31.71 • $32.49

Designer Brands
DBI

4.49%

$7.13 • $6.81

Genesco
GCO

6.41%

$22.51 • $20.73

Mizuno
8022.T

14.12%

$18.41 • $21.01

Puma
PMMAF

1.65%

$72.90 • $74.10

Shoe Carnival
SKVL

0.26%

$27.02 • $27.09

Steve Madden
SHOO

0.13%

$23.30 • $23.33

VF Corp.
VFC

0.82%

$63.12 • $62.60

Company name
(Ticker Symbol)

% Change over week
Price 06/15/20 • Price 06/22/20

Adidas
addyy

0.72%

$132.53 • $133.49

Caleres
CAL

5.71%

$8.58 • $8.09

Deckers
DECK

3.71%

$193.55 • $200.73

Foot Locker
FL

0.99%

$29.23 • $29.52

GEOX
‍GEO.MI

4.49%

$0.89 • $0.85

Nike
NKE

1.72%

$97.83 • $99.51

Rocky Brands
RCKY

2.74%

$20.78 • $20.21

Skechers
SKX

5.66%

$33.20 • $31.32

Under Armour
UAA

3.55%

$9.86 • $9.51

Wolverine
WWW

0.26%

$23.08 • $23.14

TOTAL
‍Week over week

1.06%

$849.49 • $858.46

Formula4 Media, LLC. ©2021 All rights reserved. The opinions expressed by authors and contributors are not necessarily those of the editors or publishers. Formula4 Media is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Articles appearing in publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express permission of the publisher.

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