Footwear manufacturers who want to increase the amount of recycled material in their shoes, without compromising quality, have a new technology at their disposal from the Texon company: Texon Ecoline, a material that combines strength and sustainability

Based on 85% recycled polyester (rPET), Texon Ecoline is 100% recyclable and up to 32% lighter than similar materials, but offers the same strength and performance as heavier materials.

Texon Ecoline is produced through a special fusion bonding process that improves the internal bonding structure of the material’s fibers, which are arranged randomly. This manufacturing method makes the material stronger while retaining the thin and light qualities necessary for insole applications. It is also more environmentally friendly as it uses up to 50% less energy per square meter of material and consumes less water and chemicals.

Texon has integrated the product into its solid waste recovery program. This allows shoe manufacturers to return any trim to Texon to create more of the same product, reducing the amount of material sent to landfill and saving manufacturers money on waste disposal costs.

According to James Chandler, Head of New Product Development at Texon: “Texon Ecoline is an innovative product that fits perfectly with our zero waste ambitions and the needs of our customers, who we know want strong and lightweight materials for non-woven insoles, which they are also sustainable. As a team we are incredibly proud of this product. Earlier this year we publicly declared our ambition to become a zero waste business by 2025. As part of this commitment we are reducing our use of virgin materials and developing new pioneering solutions that allow us to take less from the planet and optimize what we already have. Texon Ecoline reflects this approach and demonstrates that it is possible to make lightweight, high-performance insoles from recycled material, without compromising performance or quality. “

Designed for use in durable and vulcanized cement constructions, Texon Ecoline is suitable for most types of footwear. The material offers excellent moisture wicking and absorption qualities, which improve foot comfort in all conditions. It also has high outsole adhesion with neoprene and PU adhesives.

Texon Ecoline is available in sheet form in a neutral color or it can be supplied in net form for better solid waste management. The different calibers, manufacturing methods and treatments allow great versatility and a wide range of applications, without compromise.