What the hell is this sustainable sock trend?

The fashion industry is currently grappling with one of the most important trends: sustainability. Consumers are increasingly aware of their positive impact on the environment.

Amid the shock from COVID-19, in April 2020 he found that a survey of over 2,000 UK and German consumers found that two-thirds of her customers were able to limit the impact of climate change. indicated that it was considered important. Of those, 88% felt that more attention should be paid to reducing pollution. Brands like Patagonia, People Tree, Levi's and H&M are already leaders in sustainability.

Why sustainable socks matter

Socks are one of the basics we often forget. The types of yarns, materials and packaging used to create stylish custom socks determine the degree of environmental degradation it causes. How socks are made, from raw material sourcing (petroleum), material processing (chemicals that transform materials into yarn/fiber), to life outlook (treatment, recycling or even upcycling). Thinking about it, you might want it to look like this: Choose wisely. As a marketing strategy, offering sustainable socks not only helps people in the production chain reduce the impact of pollution, but also adds value to the brand.

What sustainable materials to choose for your socks?

Many eco-friendly materials! Here are some of the sustainable recycled yarns that are commonly found in the custom sock market.

1. Coffee thread – S.Café®

Coffee grounds are collected from local coffee shops and combined with recycled yarn to trap odors. These eco-friendly socks offer quick drying and UV protection. No, eco socks don't smell like coffee. Aromatic compounds such as phenols, esters and oils are removed in the process.

sustainable sock coffee yarn

2. PET bottle thread

Recycled socks can be made from recycled PET yarn, reclaiming plastic bottles, bags and fabrics before they end up in landfills. From thin, light and stretchy activewear to thick and fluffy fleece, it's incredibly versatile and is used by big name brands like Patagonia.

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3. Recycled Nylon Yarn (also called Econyl)

Is nylon environmentally friendly? By wearing recycled socks made from recycled nylon, you can significantly reduce your environmental impact. Recycled nylon collects materials from ocean plastics, used fishing nets and discarded carpets. Since the water is extracted directly from the recycled polymer, much less water is required for manufacturing. It also reduces carbon dioxide emissions and reduces dependence on oil. Brands such as Adidas and several other sports brands are already using recycled nylon in their latest fashion socks.

sustainable socks 3

4. Polypropylene

Polypropylene or PP is composed of carbon molecules and hydrogen molecules. It is biodegradable and meets environmental safety and hazardous substance standards. Save energy and reduce CO2 emissions. Properties of polypropylene yarn include antibacterial, quick drying, antistatic, durability, light weight and abrasion resistance.

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5. Lyocell (also known as Tencel)

Lyocell is naturally biodegradable and made from eucalyptus pulp cellulose fibers. It requires less water to produce (half or less than cotton) and requires less pesticides. The process is closed his loop. That means he can recycle 99% of his chemicals and solvents. Eco-friendly socks made from lyocell fibers have better moisture absorption and natural breathability than cotton. Properties such as durability, antibacterial, moisture-proof and smooth surface are very suitable for manufacturing sports socks.