The Lenzing Group, a global leader in regenerated cellulosic fibers for textile and nonwoven applications, has partnered with OceanSafe, a pioneer in innovative textile materials, to unveil a next-generation yarn innovation. This collaboration combines Lenzing’s wood-based¹ TENCEL™ Lyocell – A100 fibers with OceanSafe’s biodegradable² co-polyester, naNea, designed to provide a responsible, high-performance alternative to conventional synthetics. The partnership introduces a resource-efficient² ⁴ ⁸ solution that meets the rising demand for sustainable and technically advanced materials, balancing durability⁵, function, and environmental responsibility² ⁶ ⁹.

As a major milestone in their collaboration, Lenzing and OceanSafe have introduced a sportswear capsule collection featuring performance wear and athleisure garments that highlight the yarn’s versatility and performance. Beyond apparel, the yarn’s applications extend to footwear, home textiles, bags, and technical textiles, offering vast opportunities for responsibly produced² ⁴ ⁶ ⁸ materials across multiple sectors.

The synergy between TENCEL™ Lyocell – A100 and naNea fibers lies at the heart of this innovation. The TENCEL™ Lyocell – A100 fibers are produced through a closed-loop, resource-saving process⁶ ⁸, while the naNea fibers are biodegradable² in the ocean and recyclable¹⁰, earning Cradle to Cradle Certified® Gold recognition for their environmental integrity² ⁹. The resulting fabric combines natural softness, moisture control¹¹, and resistance to odor-causing bacteria¹² from TENCEL™ fibers with strength, durability, and quick-dry capabilities² from naNea co-polyester.yarn

“In developing this new yarn, we made sure that it isn’t just environmentally responsible² ⁶ ⁸ ⁹, but also improved performance, functionality and durability²,” said Matthias Fuchs, CMO at OceanSafe. “We believe making responsible choices should feel like an upgrade, not a compromise. This yarn provides brands with a scalable, plug-and-play solution that supports their environmental commitments while enhancing garment performance.”

The debut capsule collection, crafted from TENCEL™ Lyocell – A100 and naNea fibers, includes women’s yoga wear, men’s athleisure T-shirts, and fleece jackets, designed for active lifestyles. The fabrics deliver durability² and textile performance through advanced material properties, eliminating the need for additional surface treatments. The collection will be presented at Performance Days Munich (October 29–30, 2025, Hall A2, Booth T11) and at the Functional Fabric Fair in Portland (November 11–13, 2025, Booth 752). It targets brands and manufacturers transitioning toward circular² ⁴ ⁵ ⁷, biodegradable² ¹³ fiber materials, reducing dependence on conventional polyester while maintaining high performance.

“Creating this collection was truly a joint effort that brought together experts from across the entire industry,” said Nicole Schram, Head of Global Technical Business Development at Lenzing Group. “We had Tearfil working their magic with yarn development, Impetus bringing their know-how for amazing knits and seamless fabrics, Kingwhale perfecting the fleece that feels so good against your skin and G-LOFT® Premium Insulation contributing with their filling technology for jackets. This collection is a testament to the power of collaboration in driving meaningful change¹ and scaling innovative solutions⁵.”

Facts & Figures:

TENCEL™ Lyocell – A100 fibers:

• Carbon emissions: ≥50% reduction vs. generic lyocell⁸

• Water consumption: ≥50% reduction vs. generic lyocell⁸

• Raw material: FSC® (FSC-C041246) or PEFC certified wood sources¹

• Production: Closed-loop process with >99.8% solvent recovery⁶

• Functionality: Effective moisture control¹¹ and resistance to odor-causing bacteria¹²

naNea by OceanSafe²:

• Material: Novel proprietary co-polyester from recycled, bio-based, or virgin feedstocks

• Biodegradable: Marine biodegradable by >93% in 99 days (ASTM D6691-17)²

• Safety: Free from toxicants or heavy metals, certified Cradle to Cradle® Gold⁹

• Production: 50% renewably sourced energy, lower dyeing temperatures for energy savings

• End-of-life: Recyclable, marine biodegradable, and microplastic-free²

• Functionality: Soft hand-feel⁴, absorbent, durable, quick-drying, and easy-care⁵

This partnership underscores a major step toward advancing circular² ⁴ ⁵ ⁷, sustainable, and high-performance textile solutions for the future.