Silkbody’s new range of travel, outdoor and everyday clothing is made using a blend of silk and other natural fibres that offer all the advantages of technical fabrics while retaining the luxury and style of silk.
Among the Silkbody collection for Winter 2009 are socks, hats, leg liners and a selection of base layers. When hitting the ski slopes this winter Silkbody is the solution to keep you warm and dry thanks to the fabric’s breathability and moisture management, silk works with the body to form a second skin trapping warm air and absorbing moisture to eliminate the chill-factor. Created in New Zealand, Silkbody isn’t just technical, it’s comfortable too – in fact it’s so lightweight and soft, it hardly feels like you’re wearing anything at all. Silk feels softer against the skin than other fibres because it has a smooth surface and is extremely fine (it has an average diameter of 11 micons or 0.011 mm), making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. Environmental issues are at the forefront of Silkbody’s operations. Of all the processes in the world used for producing fibres, both natural and synthetic, sericulture (silk production) creates the least pollution.
Treatments to improve anti-static, flame retardance, wash-and-wear or anti-bacterial properties are not required because silk is already naturally endowed with these properties. Silk can absorb one third of its own weight in moisture without feeling damp, is naturally resistant to bacteria so won’t retain body odours, is a natural insulator, is nature’s strongest fibre and is very elastic so won’t lose its shape. Silkspun garments contain 72% silk, 13% merino and 15% cotton. Silkbody examples include a Zip Neck Long Sleeve, priced at £65.95 with zip neck for ventilation and temperature regulation. The original all-season base layer, silkspun is a very lightweight knit designed to be worn next to the skin. Layer for luxury insulation or wear on its own for natural temperature regulation in the heat. Perfect for travel.