VOICE FROM USERS 01 Perfect for trail runners NIKKE AXIO® Hybrid Wool
For trail runners, especially those tackling ultra-long distances, such as ultra trails, clothing choice is an important factor with no room for compromise. NIKKE AXIO® yarn combines the comfort of wool with the functionality of polyester and is quickly gaining recognition from trail runners.
Let’s find out what they have to say about NIKKE AXIO®.
Kaori Ueki, a running coach, recently organized the ‘ROUND GIRLS 100’, a 100-mile race for women. As a female long-distance runner, Ueki explains the feel and odor resistance properties of NIKKE AXIO®.
Additionally, we talk to Yoichiro Sakurai, an experienced, long-distance runner who’s known colloquially as “the finishing artist”, about his trust in NIKKE AXIO®’s temperature-regulating properties and its ability to adapt to the environmental changes that come with a long race.
Combining the comfort of wool with the functionality of polyester
NIKKE AXIO® is made by wrapping polyester filaments inside wool fiber bundles and intertwining them so that they flow neatly. This advanced technology maximizes the soft texture of the wool on the surface while keeping the functionality of the polyester inside.
Wool is a highly functional, natural fiber. The surface structure of wool fibers consists of microscopic overlapping cuticle cells known as ‘scales’ that open and close to regulate humidity levels. In addition, the wool’s crimp, the natural waviness present in the fiber, creates air pockets trapping air and providing insulation, giving it a temperature-controlling effect. This is the secret to keeping the wearer warm and dry. The fiber also possesses antibacterial properties, making it highly odor-resistant.
NIKKE AXIO® combines the functionality of wool with the toughness and moisture absorption/quick-drying properties of polyester.
Minimalism and comfort—the mountain photographer’s choice
Doryu Takebe, a mountain photographer, has shot across numerous mountain ranges. Not only is he a photographer, but he is also well versed in the outdoors, with fitness and ability comparable to top runners and athletes. Takabe is also an official photographer for trail running races, often keeping pace with the athletes, capturing them as they compete. He is also a genuine outdoor enthusiast and enjoys backpacking or trail running during his downtime, and has been climbing for more than 20 years. He keeps equipment to the absolute “minimum necessary” and makes comfort a priority.
“I always carry cameras and equipment on my trips into the mountains, even when I’m not working. And when I’m staying over night I want to make sure I get a good night’s sleep, so I carry a comfort-oriented tent and bedding with me. So, you may ask, ‘what do I cut back on?’ and the answer is clothes.
I carry clothes with me to keep me warm, but I only take one set. If I work up a sweat, I’ll take a dip in the river and dry my clothes. So I often go several days without having to change clothes.”
Takebe, who only takes the clothing that he needs, has been using wool T-shirts for the past several years. They feel good against the skin, won’t stick to you, even when sweating, and can be worn for long days on end without worry. Additionally, wool can adapt to temperature changes brought on by increased elevation, and has anti-odor properties that keep it from smelling, even when worn for several days. Wool T-shirts are a lifesaver for people who pack only one set of clothes.
Why is wool a good choice?
In recent years, wool has been gaining favor among hikers for its comfort, odor-resistant properties, and its ability to maintain body temperature. Synthetic fibers, on the other hand, have the advantage of drying quickly, being lightweight, and highly durable. For intensive activities, such as trail running, wool is sometimes said to be unable to wick high amounts of sweat.
To overcome these hurdles, many outdoor apparel manufacturers have adopted blended fabrics, using yarns that mix wool and synthetic fibers together. However, these blended yarns are made by wrapping polyester fibers around wool fiber bundles, this causes the polyester to appear on the surface—masking the soft feel of the wool and often causing pilling. Both materials possess distinct advantages and disadvantages, and the question of which material performs best in outdoor activity settings has long been disputed.
Wool x polyester hybrid
The solution to the problem that has plagued hikers and trail runners for years is NIKKE AXIO® yarn made with completely new and innovative methods: polyester fibers are wrapped with wool fiber bundles, meaning the polyester does not show on the surface of the yarn.
NIKKE AXIO® has the unique texture of wool, is resistant to coldness caused by drying sweat, is highly moisture absorbent, and odor resistant, whilst also retaining the advantages of polyester: excellent quick-drying, elasticity, resistance to abrasion, and light weight.
“I tried on a T-shirt made with NIKKE AXIO® and had no idea that it was produced using a polyester blend, The feel, warmth, and odor resistance were similar to those of a 100% wool T-shirt. I also found it to be lighter than a 100% wool T-shirt and it also dries faster. I sometimes worry about the durability of wool T-shirts, as I’ve seen them tear easily, but this one feels strong enough to withstand tough climbing conditions and long times spent shooting in the mountains.”
With its perfect combination of wool and polyester, NIKKE AXIO® has impressed this professional mountain photographer. The hybrid yarn, made using advanced Japanese technology, will give a new definition of comfort in the Japanese outdoor scene.
