Asics invests in Spanish textile developer

By

Barbara Santamaria

Published
Sep 26, 2019

Japanese sportswear firm Asics has taken a stake in Pyrates Smart Fabrics, a Spanish startup that develops advanced and responsible fabrics, through its Asics Ventures Corporation subsidiary.

Founded by Regina Polanco in 2014, Pyrates has developed a range of eco-friendly knit fabrics that can be used in the fields of sportswear, underwear, Prêt à Porter and athleisure. 

They are made from either vegetable, upcycled or biodegradable fibres, and some are certified by Oeko-Tex. 

The startup’s innovative approach helped it bag a grant from the European Union’s Horizon2020 research programme, supporting its aim to become a driver of change in the textile industry.

The investment continues Pyrates’ journey with Asics after taking part in the first edition of the Japanese company’s Tenkan-Ten Growth Catalyst incubator in 2018. Pyrates was one of five startups receiving mentoring, financial support and networking opportunities through the specialist programme.

Asics said its is currently planning a capsule collection made from Pyrates fabrics that will launch in early 2020.