Under Armour creates new method to measure fiber shedding

Under Armour Inc. has developed a new testing methodology to help fight fiber shedding at its source.

The new testing method would support Under Armour’s sustainability goal for 75 percent of fabrics in its products to be made of low-shed materials by 2030.

Under Armour has started using the method to quantify their shed rate early during product development.

The test method offers a simplified process to accurately measure a fabric’s propensity to shed.

It would identify high-shed materials for redevelopment or discontinuation and filter out new textile candidates with high-shed rates before they enter its product development streams.

Fabric and textiles naturally shed fibers when they are made, used, and cleaned. The air, rivers, and food chains can become contaminated with these fiber fragments, commonly referred to as microplastics.

Under Armour's sustainability program, which aims to use more eco-friendly, recyclable materials and more effective design and production techniques in the creation of high-performing clothing, footwear, and accessories, places a priority on supporting innovations that lessen fiber shedding over time.

Under Armour is looking into creative ways to revamp high-shed fabrics, such as mechanical finishes and yarn formations that can promote less shedding, in addition to determining the shedding property of fabrics.