Nuyarn® Technologies recently announced a partnership with Unknown Runner, a developer of purpose-built merino performance apparel for trail runners. Flagstaff, Ariz.-based Unknown Runner was founded by trail-running partners Katie and Alex Mette, and is a performance apparel brand focused on merino garments for long-distance trail use.
The company’s approach centers on applying wool’s natural comfort and odor-management properties to technical running products while addressing the lightweight, breathability and durability requirements of high-output activity.
Unknown Runner’s debut Courser Collection features an ultralight performance-merino system designed for hot, variable conditions and powered by Nuyarn technology, according to the company.
Built for high-output runs and everyday adventure, the 115-gsm merino-blend fabric combines an open-knit structure with 63% merino wool, 29% polyester and 8% nylon. According to Unknown Runner, the fabric is designed to provide natural temperature regulation, moisture management, odor resistance and next-to-skin comfort.
Nuyarn’s proprietary drafting technology wraps merino around a nylon filament to create a wool yarn that, according to the company, is lighter in weight, manages moisture more effectively and offers greater long-term durability. Combined with the fabric’s open-knit construction and polyester content, the resulting ultralight fabric is designed to breathe well, dry quickly and maintain performance through repeated use in demanding conditions.
Nuyarn reports that retaining more of wool’s natural crimp and volume supports lightweight fabric constructions while maintaining warmth, stretch and resilience. The company says the construction positions merino at the yarn surface to support next-to-skin comfort and natural odor management, while the filament contributes strength and recovery.
The technology has found use in technical outdoor, activewear and base-layer applications, where reduced fabric weight, fast dry times and repeat-wear durability are important performance considerations.
“We are excited to see Unknown Runner utilize Nuyarn to push the boundaries of performance apparel in the trail running space,” said Monica Ebert, vice president of sales for Nuyarn. “Our technology is designed to unlock the natural potential of wool and in a high-intensity sport like trail running, the benefits of five-times faster dry times and eight-times more durability are game-changers for the athlete.”
“We’re always searching for the highest-performing merino fabrics and Nuyarn’s ability to innovate around performance made them the ideal partner for Unknown Runner,” said Alex Mette, founder of Unknown Runner.
For more information, visit nuyarn.com
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