Salomon’s Wicking Running Shirts Get EPA Nod

Claire Wilson
·2 min read

Salomon has partnered with Ionic+ Botanical and 37.5 for a new fabric technology that is the first to be approved by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Called Knit_Flow, it uses Ionic + Botanical’s anti-odor citric acid formula that reduces contact between fabric and skin to allow air to flow through the garment. The unique treated yarn is twisted in a way that wicks moisture away from the body and provides maximum breathability while reducing odor. It keeps body temperature in its normal range, 37.5 C, or 98.6 F.

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“We want runners to forget they are even wearing a shirt and shorts so that they remain in their desired comfort zone at all times,” said Hugo Debrueres, head of product for Salomon apparel. “This new Knit_Flow fabric will keep you cooler longer and help prevent that sweaty, sticky feeling many active apparel pieces deliver.”

Noble Biomaterials Inc. produces the botanical citric-based Ionic+ antimicrobial substance that went into the new fabric and gives it natural self-cleaning property. It lasts up to 50 washes and fights microbes on the material that lead to odorous bacteria that doesn’t wash out.

Ioinic+ Botanical’s state-of-the-art citric acid anti-microbial formula is the only durable plant-based formula to be tested by the EPA and meet Safer Choice’s stringent criteria. Fabrics treated with the formula rid themselves of microbes that multiply on fabric so fabric remains odor free.

Apparel treated with 37.5 technology uses natural minerals embedded in the fabric to help the body regulate its own temperature. Wicking fabrics spread moisture but those with 37.5 technology keep wearers comfortable by removing vapor before it turns liquid, allowing wearers to remain in their comfort zone longer.

The launch of Knit_Flow with Ionic+ Botanical marks a significant milestone, according to Joel Furey, founder and chief commercial officer at Noble Biomaterials.

“Working with Salomon to integrate our plant-based anti-microbial solution into Knit_Flow not only enhances the performance but also contributes to a more sustainable future of apparel use,” he said. “We’re excited to set a new standard for the apparel industry with this collection.”

Knit_Flow items available from S/Lab and Sense Aero SS24  include mens and women’s tops, in tee and singlet styles. They have ghost seams, anti-chafing neck inserts and reflective features for night activity.

Founded in 1947 in Annecy, France, Salomon is a maker of footwear, apparel and winter sports equipment. Noble Biomaterials, Inc. is a world leader in antimicrobial and conductivity solutions for soft surface applications for use in performance wear, healthcare and industrial clothing and the emerging wearable technology sector. Its flagship brands, Ionic+, X-Static and Circuitex, are licensed for use in odor elimination, infection management, biometric monitoring and conductive protection benefits. It also makes medical devices.