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Sorona®
Sorona® is a polyester microfibre consisting of approximately 38% plant-based fibres. Soft, resistant and insulating, this is the ecological alternative to elastane and animal feathers. The origin of this new innovative material lies in the growing awareness of the impact of synthetic materials on the environment. So, in the 2000s, scientists launched research projects to manufacture a more environmentally-friendly but above all less polluting material.
Sorona® is a mix of natural and synthetic materials.
Sorona® is derived from the harvesting of maize, from which glucose and/or sugar is extracted, and to which micro-organisms are added in order to start a fermentation process. An acid is then added to create a chemical reaction which produces Sorona®.
Thus, the petrochemicals traditionally used to manufacture synthetic fibres are replaced by non-petroleum products. Sorona® is therefore a "hybrid bio-polyester", a mix of natural and synthetic materials.
Le Sorona® uses 30% less energy in its manufacture.
In addition to being vegan, this fibre is particularly innovative. It requires 30% less non-renewable energy than nylon, while limiting greenhouse gas emissions, again compared to nylon. Sorona® shares much in common with elastane. This is a non-pilling material that does not crease and is particularly UV resistant. Its quality enables the design of durable garments and longer-lasting pieces. Moreover, the elasticity of this fabric does not decrease over time, so it always resumes its original shape.
Even though this fibre has been around for many years, Sorona® is not yet widely known to the general public. It has all the qualities expected of an outdoor garment: light and warm.
Thanks to Sorona®, it is possible to create cruelty-free down jackets that are just as warm as feather ones and do not use materials of animal origin, while still offering protection from the cold.
At Native Spirit, our ultimate aim is to provide ever more durable materials for a circular economy. This fabric is compatible with the recycling of polyester, which means that clothes can be given a second life.