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This month, our co-founder Doug Lynch had the pleasure of chatting with Jenny Scott and Dan Duran on ISSA’s fitness podcast “Trainers Talking Truth”! TTT is all about digging deep into the world of fitness. Jenny and Dan speak with coaches and industry experts to get insights on training, entrepreneurship in the fitness realm, and how physical fitness can impact our mental and environmental health. In this episode, Doug dives into “the science of sweat” – and how Zenkai Sports uses this biological function to our advantage to improve comfort and athletic performance.
» Listen to the full episode HERE!
First things first, let’s talk about sweat. Sweat is a natural response produced by our body when our internal temperature rises. This could be from physical exertion of any kind, high temperatures in our environment, or from running a fever. When our bodies get hot, we start to sweat. The part of the equation that actually cools us down, though, is when the sweat evaporates from our skin. The energy required to turn sweat into vapor comes from the heat produced by your body. This heat leaves your body with the sweat vapor, leaving you cooler than you were before. So, if sweat is helpful to our body, how did moisture-wicking fabric become the norm for athletic apparel?
Before synthetic, athletes were mostly wearing 100% cotton. Traditionally, cotton garments were cumbersome for heavy activity. In the 80s and 90s, sports companies like Nike, Reebok, and Under Armour began developing technical fabrics made from synthetic fibers that were moisture-wicking and lightweight, the selling point being that they would keep you dry and thereby enhance performance (according to them). As synthetic technical fabric became more affordable and widely available, it’s no wonder this new technology was eventually adopted by the fitness-focused.
Remember when we talked about how sweat keeps us cool as it evaporates? Well, when you wick it away before it evaporates, that important reaction doesn’t occur. The heat your body produces has nowhere to go and actually ends up causing you to sweat more. Instead of enhancing your performance, this overexertion actually hinders it.
So, back to co-founder Doug Lynch. He wanted to find a solution to the problems presented by synthetic sports apparel. Not only does it have a negative impact on athletic performance, but it has a negative impact on the planet; it’s derived from petroleum, doesn’t biodegrade, and breaks down into microplastics that pollute the environment. Zenkai apparel, on the other hand, uses a technology called Filium which transforms natural fibers like cotton into high-performing technical apparel that repels sweat (as opposed to wicking it).
“It’s the perfect middle-ground between wearing a 100% cotton T-shirt or synthetic shirt that’s ruining the planet.”
– Doug Lynch, Co-Founder of Zenkai Sports
Thanks to this hydrophobic technology, Zenkai apparel actually works with your sweat to keep you cool. Filium-activated garments repel water on the inside and outside, thus keeping a thin layer of sweat on your skin to cool you down while simultaneously keeping your clothes dry.
Fun fact: Water molecules are larger than air molecules. Zenkai clothing keeps moisture out without compromising on breathability!
Not only are they comfortable and functional, but Zenkai apparel is also better for the planet. Since our clothing is made from natural fibers, it’s biodegradable and breaks down at the end of its life cycle rather than sticking around and leaching nanoparticles into the environment. Next to the gas and oil industries, the textiles industry is the second largest polluter of our planet. Zenkai is aiming to change that by offering crazy comfortable technical apparel that improves your performance no matter what activity you’re doing.
But don’t take it from us. TTT host Jenny Scott tried Zenkai firsthand while she played three hours of beach volleyball. Afterwards she said, “I don’t feel sweaty, I don’t feel wet, and guess what guys? I did not stink.” If you’re curious about how your sportswear can actually enhance your athletic performance – or if you just want comfy, breathable clothing that feels dry and fresh at the end of the day – give Zenkai a try.
What are your biggest complaints about your workout clothes today? That they start to stink after one or two uses? You have to wash them often (and after a few washes, they start to fall apart)? They’re actually a bit itchy and irritate your skin? These statements may even be true about your day-to-day street clothes. Well, we’ve experienced the same exact things. Not to mention the less apparent downsides of today’s technical apparel; most of it is treated with petroleum-based chemicals and made of synthetic fibers that are harmful to our bodies and our planet. That’s why we set out to change how performance apparel is made. And that’s how we came to use a technology called Filium® that makes our natural sportswear the best you’ve ever sweat in.
Before diving into what Filium is, it’s important to understand what this tech is responding to. The current trend in technical apparel is to craft garments out of synthetic fibers and treat them with petroleum-based substances to achieve “moisture-wicking” or “fast-drying” qualities. These may seem like helpful features, but in reality they work against our bodies and, in the long run, our planet.
For starters, garments that wick sweat away and quickly evaporate it actually impede your body’s natural regulation. Sweat is a biological response to prevent your body from overheating. When it's wicked away, your body kicks into overgear to produce even more sweat to keep you cool. These synthetic garments may dry quickly, but therein lies another problem. Sweat itself is odorless. However, there is bacteria in sweat that, when absorbed, is the root of that foul post-workout smell. When sweat gets soaked up by your clothes, the moisture evaporates, leaving behind the odor-causing bacteria to do its thing.
On top of this, the materials and chemicals used to create these technical garments have detrimental effects on the environment. The synthetic fibers and nanoparticles that make up such clothing are toxic and non-biodegradable. After they’re discarded, they take decades – centuries, even – to break down. And before that, they shed chemicals and microplastics into our waterways simply by going through a standard wash cycle.
Filium is a technology that turns natural fibers like cotton or wool into water-repellent, odor-resistant garments without compromising softness, breathability, or comfort. Unlike the chemical-laden treatments used on synthetic apparel, Filium meets bluesign® standards for sustainable materials and production, and steers clear of using nanoparticles such as plastic or silver.
In order to work with the body rather than against it, Zenkai’s garments are water-repellent, not moisture-wicking. The Filium process makes our clothing hydrophobic so that spills and sweat roll right off, leaving your garment stain-free and dry. When you break a sweat, it’s this feature that keeps a thin layer of moisture on your skin, keeping you cool as a cucumber. The cherry on top? Sweat-repelling means odor-refusing.
(Sidenote: Filium doesn’t make fibers waterproof. Dunking one of our garments in water will get it wet. But, if our apparel does get wet or absorb liquid, its repellent nature means it will dry up to 40% faster than other fabrics!)
The last thing you want when you’re busting it out at the gym or enjoying an outdoor summer shindig is to be weighed down by uncomfortable, irritating clothes. Filium combines the lightweight breathability of your favorite plant-based fibers with the water-repellent, odor-resistant features previously mentioned for the ultimate update in technical apparel. Because natural fibers are gentler on the skin, our garments are favored by folks with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Then there are the environmental benefits. Thanks to Filium, our natural, plastic-free apparel is biodegradable and free from harmful chemicals and nanoparticles. This means that they won’t leach anything nasty into the environment, and when they reach the end of their life, they’ll break down completely rather than stick around in a landfill for millenia. Also, Zenkai’s odor-resistant garments require less frequent laundering than synthetic fabrics, making them a more sustainable choice all-around!
Thanks to Filium, we’re able to combine the benefits of using natural fibers (eco-friendly, comfortable, breathable) with technical features that help you perform better during a workout (water-repellant, naturally cooling) for the ultimate sportswear solution. You may be wondering, “Do I have to be an athlete to enjoy Zenkai?” The answer is a resounding “No way!” Not only does our clothing perform well, but it looks great on you. Incorporate Zenkai into your casual wear and experience the difference for yourself. Filium protects our garments from spills and sweat in any context, so you can reach the end of your day feeling just as fresh as when you started.
We’re continuing our Earth Month celebration by shining a spotlight on our sustainable athletic apparel and how one eco-athlete uses our gear to help him stay in his sustainability lane.
Most athletic apparel is made using synthetic fibers touting features like “fast-drying” and “moisture-wicking” properties. In reality, these fabrics make your body work harder to keep you cool. Sweat is your body’s natural defense against overheating. When your clothing wicks it away, your system goes into overdrive to produce more and cool you down. Not to mention, synthetic fibers are often treated with chemicals throughout the manufacturing process, as well as after they have been made into garments, to achieve certain effects. The chemicals used can be harmful to your skin, causing rashes, inflammation, irritation, or acne. Additionally, they enter our water system once the garment is laundered. For all of the above reasons, some athletic wear is far from ideal for folks trying to lead an eco-friendly lifestyle.
Our sportswear is designed with the planet in mind. Utilizing our one-of-a-kind Filium technology, we transform natural fibers into long-lasting, lightweight, and breathable athletic apparel that resists stains, repels moisture, and works with your body to keep you cool throughout your workout. No chemicals, and no synthetic fibers hanging out in a landfill for years and years after you can’t use them anymore. And, our clothes are odor-resistant because the fabric repels rather than absorbs sweat! This means you can wear Zenkai garments several times before needing to toss it in the wash.
But don’t take it from us! Read our Q&A with eco-athlete Ellis Spiezia and learn why he loves wearing his Zenkai gear.
Q: What’s your sport?
A: I’m an electric racing driver. I raced electric karts for two seasons, then moved to cars. This season I’m driving an electric Mini Cooper, electric formula and some combustion TCR. But being a racing driver means that behind the scenes, fitness is a very important aspect of my life, mainly focusing on neck training to help with the G-forces I experience in the car.
Q: Supporting the planet and maintaining an active lifestyle don’t always go hand-in-hand. Have you ever found it difficult to maintain a commitment to earth-friendly living while also prioritizing your health and fitness?
A: Especially when we are living on the road, being earth friendly is definitely a challenge. We do simple things like use reusable water bottles whenever at the gym or the track, minimize how much waste we create especially when it comes to meals on the road. The other big way we can have an impact is to drive rather than fly. Now, I use my awesome new Zenkai Gear! And I'm always down to grab some used tires from another team before they throw them away.
Q: What are your favorite eco-friendly tips for an active lifestyle?
A: My favorite eco-friendly tip is just do what you can even if it feels small. You don't need to turn your life upside down to have an impact. As a team we try to be as informed as possible about every choice we make. Knowledge is power. Choosing brands like Zenkai that prioritize being eco-friendly is a great first step into making that impact.
Q: What drew you to Zenkai Sports as a brand?
A: Being an athlete trying to help push sustainability, it was a no-brainer to partner up with Zenkai. Having a brand that not only makes great products, but also aligns with our [team’s] commitment to sustainability is a match made in heaven. Often you feel like you have to choose style or sustainability, but Zenkai has both.
Q: What’s your favorite Zenkai product, and why?
A: My favorite product so far is the Pathfinder Full Zip Hoodie. I'm a diehard fan of sweatshirts and this one is super comfortable and great for my late night gym runs in the cold. Also, the fact that I can wear my gear more than once without being stinky is amazing for life on the road.
Q: Are there any organizations or causes you’re supporting for Earth Month?
A: I’m a member of High Impact Athletes, and contribute monthly to two of their charity organizations, the Humane League and Clean Air Task Force. Humane League focuses on agricultural animal welfare, and Clean Air Task Force works on reducing carbon impact. Also, we just partnered up with Carbify— they’re using blockchain technology for carbon compensation and focusing on reforestation. I’m really excited to work with them.
Founded upon principles of sustainability and eco-consciousness, Zenkai is celebrating this Earth Day with 50% off our whole store. Take advantage of this sale to stock up on planet-friendly performance clothing and help us fight the plastic problem! You’ll automatically receive 50% off your purchase when you make a purchase on April 22nd.
Cutting back on single-use plastic has been on the sustainability agenda for years now as we attempt to combat its effects on our environment. But that’s not the only form of this ubiquitous material that has a negative impact on our planet. Toys, credit cards, reusable water bottles, synthetic fabrics – anything made using plastic can contribute to the pollution problem we’re currently facing.
First, it’s important to understand what the real problem is with plastic. It can take anywhere between a century to a millenia (or more) for plastic to fully break down. Rather than biodegrading, it breaks into smaller and smaller pieces over time – also known as microplastics – which then leech into our environment. These microplastics find their way into every nook and cranny of our planet, including our soil, waterways, and the ocean.
In addition to the microplastics that pollute the planet, many of these products also shed carcinogenic substances. These toxic chemicals come from flame retardants and moisture wicking treatments, for example, that are applied to various plastic products to make them more functional. Little is known about how ingesting plastic particles affects living organisms, but the substances that are so often added to plastic have been proven to disrupt endocrine systems, cause oxidative stress, and suppress immune function in both animals and humans.
Many brands that manufacture plastic products have turned to using recycled plastic as a way to combat pollution. However, it’s important to note that plastic can only be recycled once, and recycled plastic is just as likely as its virgin counterpart to shed microplastics and other nanoparticles into the environment.
Where does a clothing brand fit in here? Well, over the last century, synthetic fibers have become more and more popular in clothing manufacturing. And synthetic fibers are made of – you guessed it – plastic. When these fabrics go through a wash cycle, microplastics are shaken loose and drain away into our water system. These particles eventually end up in the ocean and are a detriment to marine life.
Scientists at present estimate that clothing alone is responsible for nearly 35% of the microplastic pollution in our oceans. Switching to exclusively natural fibers for your clothing seems like one good solution to curbing the microplastics problem, but that’s easier said than done.
Athletic apparel especially is dominated by brands using synthetic fibers and hocking moisture-wicking and fast-absorbing qualities as a way to keep you cool during your workout. That being said, moisture-wicking clothing can actually have the reverse impact. Sweat is your body’s way of keeping you cool when you’re working hard. By removing this natural regulator, moisture-wicking fabric causes your body to work even harder to produce more sweat to cool you down. But that’s a topic for another blog… (One that you can read here!)
With the abundance of athletic clothing brands on the market that use primarily, if not exclusively, synthetic fibers, it can be challenging to find a natural alternative that’s still lightweight and comfortable for your workout.
So how about less frequent washing? If synthetic fabrics break down so much in the washer, surely laundering them less often might curb the microplastic mess and reduce water consumption. Unfortunately, this is another “easier said than done” situation. Synthetic fibers are famous for absorbing moisture and quickly evaporating it, but they’re also known for harboring foul odors. When you sweat or spill something on a synthetic garment, the spot may dry quickly, but bacteria is left behind to breed and develop a stinky smell. Even if you could overlook the odor, your gym mates and running buddies might start keeping their distance.
Zenkai creates functional, high-performance athletic-wear made of natural fibers and none of the nasty chemicals. Our clothing is free from the harmful microplastics and nanoparticles present in synthetic athletic apparel and boasts both breathability and biodegradability.
Our proprietary Filium® technology transforms organic material into sturdy, sweat-repellent, and irritant-free fabric. Instead of fighting against your body’s natural sweat response through “wicking” properties, it repels moisture, keeping a thin layer of sweat on your skin to keep you cool while you move. The benefits here are twofold: you don’t overheat, and your clothes remain free of odor-causing bacteria. An added benefit? Less frequent laundering! Zenkai garments are designed to be used several times before needing a wash. And even when you do throw them in the washing machine, they don’t shed the same particles that synthetic fabrics do because they’re made from natural fibers. Win/win.
Founded upon principles of sustainability and eco-consciousness, Zenkai is celebrating this Earth Day with 50% off our whole store. Take advantage of this sale to stock up on planet-friendly performance clothing and help us fight the plastic problem! You’ll automatically receive 50% off your purchase when you make a purchase on April 22nd.
Eczema and psoriasis affect millions of people worldwide. Both are skin conditions that can cause dry, itchy, and inflamed skin and can be triggered by several different environmental, dietary, and even mental factors. While there is no cure for eczema and psoriasis, there are many natural remedies that can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall skin health. Some are topical, some are food-related, but the most surprising one is actually something you wear…
Eczema and psoriasis are both chronic skin conditions that cause inflammation and irritation. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is characterized by dry, itchy, and red patches of skin that can be triggered by stress, certain foods, and environmental factors like pollen or dust. Psoriasis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disease that causes the skin to produce too many skin cells, resulting in thick, scaly patches of skin that can be painful and itchy.
There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for eczema and psoriasis. One or a combination of these natural remedies might offer some relief. If you feel like you’ve tried everything, consider giving Zenkai a whirl. Our garments have successfully reduced rashes and irritations that synthetic fabrics are now known to cause. Learn more about our apparel here!
If you’ve ever suffered from sensitive skin or a condition such as eczema or psoriasis, you’re familiar with the various potential contributors to skin irritation. Foods, soaps, pet dander, and other environmental allergens can cause flare-ups that are painful and embarrassing. Excessive sweating and chemicals can cause adverse skin reactions. Even stress can trigger irritation.
Synthetic fabrics are composed of manmade fibers that are created through chemical processes. They’re often petroleum-based and treated with chemicals to make them “waterproof” or “moisture-wicking.” Common examples of synthetic fabrics include: nylon, polyester, acrylic, spandex, olefin, neoprene, and microfiber.
There are many benefits to using synthetic fabrics depending on the context. For example, they’re relatively inexpensive to produce, they’re durable, and they can easily be waterproofed. The first synthetic fiber to be produced was nylon for parachutes in WWII, and since then, synthetic fibers can be found in countless products ranging from clothing to outdoor gear. In clothing, they’re often chosen for their “moisture-wicking” properties.
On the flip side, their effect on the environment – and our skin – can be detrimental. Because they’re made of chemicals derived from coal, oil, and natural gas, they’re highly flammable. When burned, they emit toxic gasses. On top of that, they don’t biodegrade like natural fabrics do, but instead remain in landfills and leach into the environment.
Waterproofing and moisture-wicking treatments used on synthetic fabrics contain harsh chemicals and resins that can irritate our skin. “Moisture-wicking” is typically achieved by treating the fabric with chemicals that help the fabric absorb moisture (your sweat, for example) and quickly evaporate it. While the sweat dries rapidly, the bacteria from it remains in the fibers of the garment, leading to foul odors and, eventually, deterioration of the fabric.
Sweat is your body’s natural response when it senses the need to cool down, and moisture-wicking material can actually work against this reaction. As it wicks away the sweat that’s meant to keep you from overheating, your body reacts by working even harder to produce more sweat. Not to mention the chemicals used to affect this “wicking” technology can irritate sensitive skin and exacerbate rashes and dermatitis.
Natural fabrics are made from materials that already exist in nature, such as plants, minerals, or proteins. Because they’re organic, they biodegrade faster than synthetic fabrics when discarded in normal waste streams. Typically they are free from the harmful chemicals that are found in their manmade counterparts. For this reason, they’re gentler on the environment and on our skin!
A fabric made without harmful chemicals that repels rather than absorbs sweat and keeps you cool when you’re on the move. A durable material that actually soothes your skin rather than aggravating it.
Zenkai’s clothing is made using our Filium® technology – a process through which natural fibers are made into breathable, biodegradable fabric that repels sweat and resists stains, leaving your clothes odorless and irritant-free. Instead of fighting the natural heat-regulator that is sweat, our apparel works with it by repelling instead of absorbing. Keeping a thin layer of sweat on your skin helps you stay cool and prevents your body from working overtime to beat the heat.
If you’re considering avoiding synthetic fibers to help heal your skin, you don’t need to compromise on comfort or performance. Zenkai clothing is soft, durable, and keeps you feeling fresh. Not only are our garments gentler on your skin, but they require less frequent laundering. (A win/win for sensitive skin and the environment!)
If you’ve determined that synthetic fabrics are causing or exacerbating your skin irritation, or you’re simply looking for a way to lessen your impact on our planet, check out our apparel here.
PORTLAND, OR, Dec. 5 2022 – Zenkai Sports (www.zenkaisports.com), a natural and sustainable, plant based performance apparel brand, has announced the closing of a $1M funding round to fuel growth and product development. Founded by former pro hockey player Doug Lynch and 40-year apparel industry veterans Raj and Akhil Shah, Zenkai’s premium, eco-friendly apparel supports both performance and the planet and is trusted by athletes across the NHL, NBA, NFL, MLB, NWSL and MMA, as well as business and film industry leaders.
“Raj and I instantly connected over our shared love of performance apparel and eco-friendly innovation.” said CEO and Co-Founder Doug Lynch. “The human body is the ultimate technology, and we are harnessing the power of sweat to boost performance. We created Zenkai because we didn’t see an option in the apparel industry that benefits both humans and the environment.”
Zenkai’s Filium® activated natural materials require less washing and boosts performance through increased thermoregulation. Zenkai apparel is biodegradable and is shipped in compostable packaging.
“We are passionate about the environment and the future of the planet,” said Co-Founder Raj Shah. “We invested years of research and millions of dollars to develop FiliumÒ, which we believe to be a better, more sustainable performance technology.”
Zenkai engaged strategic advisors from the apparel, entertainment, and pro sports fields, including Chris Overholt, former CEO of the Canadian Olympic Committee, and Matt Shearer, a 20-year executive at Under Armour. “It is rewarding to see industry leaders, actors and athletes embrace our brand story and help frame our vision for disrupting the performance apparel space,” continued Lynch.
Zenkai offers a full men’s and women’s line. Visit www.zenkaisports.com to explore a natural premium apparel option you can feel good about.
As featured on CSGA
Denver, CO, June 27-2022 – Zenkai Sports, represented by Doug and Sandy Lynch, is Athletix's official apparel partner, providing performance apparel to all Athletix testing staff, employees and partners within Athletix franchise network.
Athletix transforms sports data into effective tools for progress. Athletix provides sport-specific performance testing and data analysis to support the development of athletes, teams and organizations in both Europe and North America by operating a network of mobile testing units that deliver data collection, analytics and visualization services right to customers door step.
“We are thrilled to partner with Robert and the entire Athletix Team,” said Doug Lynch, Zenkai Sports CEO and former professional hockey player. “Their data collection system is first class with professionals who know the industry and provides the best chance for athletes to improve their game.”
Read the full CSGA article HERE
Compression apparel is important for anyone who exercises diligently. Designed to increase blood and lymphatic flow to the specified limb, use of compression is said to enhance performance and shorten recovery time for both athletes and weekend warriors alike.
Scientific evidence shows an increase in oxygen uptake to the working muscles, a reduction in blood lactate levels, and improved warmups are all observed when compression gear is worn both pre- and post-exercise. But compression apparel isn’t just a matter of tightly fitting fabrics where Zenkai is concerned. With our Filium Technology, Zenkai Compression also repels sweat, keeping you cooler as you exercise by letting the sweat evaporate effortlessly through the breathable fabric, as nature intended.
As if that wasn’t enough, the water repellant technology also keeps bacteria out of the garment so you can wear your compression gear multiple times before you need to wash it!
While we might be more inclined to throw our sweaty workout gear on a hot wash, did you know that by doing this we are in fact contributing to the decline of our eco systems?
By using a hot wash vs a cold wash on our laundry cycle causes hundreds of tonnes of microfibres to shed from our clothing. These microfibres carry toxic chemicals, which are subsequently ingested by zooplankton, which are then eaten by fish and then larger mammals, like orca whales and over time will have devastating results.
Preliminary research being conducted by the University of British Columbia and Ocean Wise to figure out the scope of the problem, suggest that washing clothes in cold water and on shorter cycles reduces microfibre shedding by up to 50 per cent.....that's a pretty big deal!
By choosing to wash your clothing on a cold wash, doesn't mean that your clothes will be less clean, in fact you are still able to rid your clothing of stains and odors but also do your part in protecting the planet for future generations.
The sports industry is notorious for using synthetic materials to create their apparel and synthetic fabrics are sadly jam packed with microfibres. However here at Zenkai, it is our mission to shift that paradigm from synthetic to a more natural and sustainable solution.
We have had some athletes wear Zenkai base layer for 1 month before it needs washing. We have had runners wear Zenkai Apparel for 10 days running over 100 miles without washing. Smell your apparel after each use and once you notice an odor just toss it in the wash.
Zenkai Apparel has been performance and wear tested for two years now, both in-house and by independent labs. We’ve had athletes in the NHL, CrossFit Games, Major Junior Hockey, Triathlons and Lacrosse all wear Zenkai and be astounded by the anti-odor properties and the enhanced performance.
You will notice how infrequently you will need to wash Zenkai Apparel. Your wallet and the environment will thank you! Just remember: Take, shake and hang.
Read more HERE about the study and how washing clothes in cold water can reduce microplastics entering water by up to 50 per cent.
