Forest fibers
Knock on wood
Cellulosic fibers currently represent only 5% of fibers used in the textile industry (compared to 69% for synthetic fibers, 24% for cotton, and barely 2% for wool). These fibers are called artificial fibers because they are created from a natural element that undergoes chemical transformation: wood. Usually, it's spruce or beech, but other plants like bamboo can also be used. The most well-known ones are viscose, lyocell, modal, and cupro - with Tencel® being a registered trademark of lyocell made by the Austrian company Lenzing.
Viscose virtues
Tree-mendously soft
In addition to being renewable and biodegradable, viscose has several properties that make it particularly well-suited for technical wear and performance clothing.
Highly breathable. The fiber structure allows constant air circulation, keeping you comfortable during any activity.
Excellent moisture absorption. Viscose quickly wicks moisture away from the skin and evaporates it efficiently.
Soft and comfortable. The fine fibers create an exceptionally smooth fabric that feels natural against the skin.
Good temperature regulation. The combination of breathability and moisture management helps maintain body's optimal temperature.
Machine washable. Unlike traditional viscose, our fabric maintains its quality through machine washing - an industry first that eliminates dry cleaning costs.
From Sweden to Italy
Pulp non-fiction
Our viscose follows a strict selection process, from Swedish forests to our Italian weaving mill. We use spruce and Scots pine from sustainably managed Swedish forests with dual FSC and Canopy Planet certification. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Canopy Planet are international NGOs promoting ecological, social, and economic forest management. The wood is transformed into cellulose on-site in central Sweden, then sent to Germany for viscose fiber production. Chemicals used in this process are treated to prevent air and water pollution. Our viscose yarn is certified as a "responsible fiber" by Fairtrade International. It then goes to our partner in northern Italy for weaving - founded in 1815 but leading in CO2 emissions and environmental standards, they recently covered their roof with 3,700m2 of solar panels.
NO SMOOTH CRIMINAL
Cellulosic fibers are sometimes criticized due to their manufacturing process requiring potentially hazardous chemicals: caustic soda, carbon disulfide, and sulfuric acid. Without proper treatment, these substances become highly toxic to the environment. In 2017, an investigation by NGO Changing Markets Foundation exposed this reality in India: factories were directly dumping contaminated water into rivers. The consequences were devastating: groundwater pollution, ecosystem destruction, agricultural land contamination, and severe health issues for local communities.
To avoid these risks, we produce all our viscose in Europe, which enforces the world's strictest environmental regulations. This decision ensures rigorous control at every production stage, from tree to final garment.