Nuyarn, Takisada win 2026 Performance Days award for merino wool fabric

Nuyarn Technologies, based in Levin, New Zealand, has collaborated with Japan’s Takisada Corporation to develop an open-net wool fabric construction that received a 2026 Performance Days award for textile innovation. Designed to enhance breathability and manage moisture in vapour form, the fabric targets applications ranging from lightweight summer running and endurance sportswear to base layers for demanding alpine conditions.

The fabric combines Nuyarn’s proprietary twist-free spinning technology with an open-net construction. Unlike conventional wool yarn production, the process avoids tightly twisting fibres, aiming to preserve more of wool’s natural elasticity, moisture management and thermal regulation properties while improving durability and reducing weight.

The resulting construction offers fabric developers an alternative way to achieve ventilation and moisture management in high-intensity performance apparel while retaining the benefits of natural fibres. Comprising 67% Merino wool and 33% polyamide, the fabric weighs 105 gsm. According to the companies, it dries up to five times faster than conventional Merino and offers up to 8.8 times greater abrasion resistance.

The development comes amid growing interest in wool-based alternatives to synthetic performance fabrics, particularly for applications requiring comfort, temperature regulation and moisture management. Nuyarn CEO Andy Wynne said the award highlights the potential of collaboration in advancing performance textile innovation.