Hyosung TNC partners with Lenzing to launch bio-based elastane yoga fabrics at ISPO Munich

Through the technical expertise and fabric engineering of Hong Kong-based Pacific Textiles, a Hyosung TNC premium circular knit partner that specializes in sustainable fabric production, the knit suppliers were able to optimize the fabric structure and heat-setting process to ensure consistent stretch and a natural, soft-hand feel. This joint development maintains the signature smoothness of TENCEL™ fibers while achieving excellent stretch and recovery - resulting in a premium yoga and athleisure fabric that perfectly combines sustainability and performance. 

“I truly believe that the future of performance textiles lies in collaborative innovation. Our partnership with Hyosung TNC beautifully illustrates this idea, exemplifying how material innovation and cross-industry collaboration can accelerate the transition to bio-based, traceable, and scalable alternatives—delivering on both technical excellence and environmental responsibility,” said Nicole Schram, Lenzing’s Head of Global Technical Development. “They bring years of expertise in elastane, while we contribute our innovative cellulosic fibers. What really excites me is how we’re both reimagining material science with a focus on sustainability.¹²³ With this yoga collection, we’re not just blending fibers, we’re showing how working together can accelerate the entire industry toward resource-efficient practices.”

“We’ve had many brand partners approach us looking for a sustainably made elastane that would help them tell a fully biobased material story,” said Simon Whitmarsh-Knight, Hyosung TNC Global Sustainability Director - Textiles. “We believe our regen™ BIO Elastane uniquely pairs with Lenzing’s luxurious wood-based fibers⁴ to create this perfect sustainable solution. Collaborative partnerships are essential as the textile industry strives for innovative and high-performance solutions across the value chain to meet brand and consumer sustainability objectives.”

On Monday, December 1 (Day 2 of ISPO) at 4:00PM, Nicloe Schram and Simon Whitmarsh-Knight will present an expert talk titled Plant-Based Solutions in Performance Fabrics taking place at the Sustainability Hub Green Stage in Hall 2. This workshop explores how Hyosung TNC and Lenzing are pioneering a breakthrough with sugarcane-based performance fabrics, establishing a new benchmark in plant-based solutions. Hyosung is also supporting the Material Lab - also located in Hall 2 - with an interactive display of how it makes its regen BIO Elastane from sugarcane.

regen™ BIO Elastane - From nature to performance fiber

Also, at ISPO, Hyosung TNC will highlight its expanded regen™ BIO Elastane range made of renewable content and inform attendees on the transition of the fiber’s feedstock from corn to sugarcane, which enables lower carbon emissions without sacrificing performance. The company has joined the VIVE Sustainable Supply Program, to ensure full transparency from sugarcane farms to fiber production.

“For the first time, the industry will have an integrated supply of bio-based elastane in one region, from raw material to fiber,” said Whitmarsh-Knight. “This means faster market delivery, shorter development times, and a stronger supply chain for partners.”

CREORA® functional textiles – Designed for trends shaping tomorrow

Continuously innovating, Hyosung TNC anticipates what consumers expect from their performance apparel, including multi-functional features that keep wearers cool, fresh, and comfortable with style.

In addition to the company’s regen™ BIO Elastane range, materials with new performance fibers will be highlighted at the show to include CREORA® Cotna and Conadu Polyester that deliver the soft, natural feel of cotton with lasting comfort. CREORA® Conadu features the added benefit of stretch, wrinkle resistance, and moisture management. Hyosung TNC’s new CREORA® Rexy2 Nylon, which provides a luxe gloss and soft texture, will also be presented during the show.

Hyosung TNC can be found at Messe Munich Hall A2, booth 451.

Footnotes

[1] TENCEL™ Lyocell and LENZING™ ECOVERO™ fibers are made with at least 50 percent less carbon emissions and water consumption, compared to generic (unbranded) lyocell and viscose. The results were calculated according to LCA standards (ISO 14040/44) and are made available via the Higg Materials Sustainability Index (MSI) v3.10 (April 2025).

[2] LENZING™ ECOVERO™ fibers produced with REFIBRA™ technology use cotton textile waste as a raw material, in addition to wood. The fibers contain a minimum of 20% recycled material, which is sourced from pre- and post-consumer waste. These cotton scraps could have otherwise entered landfills or been incinerated. LENZING™ ECOVERO™ fibers produced with REFIBRA™ technology also meet the Recycled Claim Standard. 

[3] To foster a sustainable global textile and nonwovens industry, Lenzing follows three strategic principles within the context of its “Naturally Positive” sustainability strategy, which focuses on greening the value chain, driving systemic change and advancing the circular economy through partnerships with key industry stakeholders, such as Textile Exchange, Cascale, Canopy, Together for Sustainability, Renewable Carbon Initiative, and UN Global Compact.

[4] Adhering to the company’s commitment to environmental protection and resource preservation, Lenzing procures wood and pulp only from certified or controlled sustainable sources. In its Wood and Pulp Policy, Lenzing is committed to procuring wood and pulp exclusively from non-controversial sources. FSC® (FSC-C041246) or PEFC (PEFC/06-33-92) certification.