Group Head of Product Design and Innovation at Longeaton, UK-based Stretchline, Emily Roberts, says: "By combining Stretchline's Orbiknit with Rheon's unique material science, we can deliver elastic solutions that truly adapt to movement; a benefit brands can now bring to consumers in both the intimate and activewear markets."
The partners say that 72% of women around the world experience pain while exercising, and conventional high-support bra straps can exert up to 2.4 kg of downward force on each side of their wearer's chest, which creates grooves in their skin, and can cause neck and back pain, and even nerve compression. Rheon and Stretchline claim to have solved this problem with their strap.
The strap features a core made from Rheon, which is elastic, yet actively dampens and/or controls energy. Rheon Labs, of London, UK, says that the polymer remains soft and flexible when its wearer is at rest, but instantly stiffens under movement or force. When the polymer is employed in elastics and trims, the faster it is stretched, the stronger it reacts, delivering targeted support exactly where it is needed, when it is needed.
The core is complemented by a sheath made from Stretchline's Orbiknit elastic, which has a unique multi-directional knit structure that delivers smooth elasticity and rapid recovery. Stretchline says that the edge-free design of Orbinknit eliminates the discomfort caused by the rigid edges of conventional straps, enabling bras and sports bras to provide lasting support without compromising flexibility and comfort.
Rheon Labs have tested the strap and compared its performance with a conventional strap. It found that its strap:
- stopped breast-bounce 55% faster;
- reduced after-bounce motion by up to 25%;
- demonstrated a 105% improvement in absorbing movement and controlling bounce.
For consumers, the strap delivers versatility, reducing the need to switch between different bras throughout the day. For apparel manufacturers, the adaptive strap offers a new route to differentiate fit and comfort without redesigning core patterns. The strap is fully compatible with existing manufacturing and assembly lines.
The Commercial Director at Rheon Labs, Simon Huntsman, says: "This partnership allows us to deliver dynamic elastics that fundamentally change how support and comfort can coexist. Our mission has always been to remove compromise in garment design. With Stretchline, we are able to take this technology to scale and into the hands of the world's leading apparel brands."