This week we’re following up a rather unusual request from a potential client. In January we sent out a press release extolling the virtues of our new Coolskyn + fabric and Skyns technology, which was subsequently published in International Textile. As a result we have had a request from the Southern Hemisphere for Coolskyn Blankets for Cows (yes I’m serious)....so we are currently developing Coolskyn Jerseys!

It seems that the specific heard of cows we’re designing for are suffering from heat stress which could be alleviated with a Coolskyn blanket. As Coolskyn, is lightweight, blocks up to 98% of UV radiation and is 100% hydrophilic wicking Polyester, it could be just what the cows need to keep them cool and less moo..dy!. Next we’re looking at Thermoskyn Wooly Jumpers to keep new born lambs warm.

South West based RTG, a world-wide specialist in textile and contract manufacturing, has launched its latest innovative Skyns fabric technology to the sporting world, equipping teenage enthusiasts and seasoned athletes with the material to secure winning results from a sweaty workout without the associated wetness and body odour.

At the top of its game and tough by nature, RTG's new, high performance, antibacterial, Coolskyn+ eliminates the distraction and unpleasantness which body odour brings to the gym, track and field, enabling wearers to keep their eyes on the prize and remain confident and goal centric.

Blood, Sweat & Science 
Building on the success of its breathable, lightweight Coolskyn sports fabric, RTG has now knitted a silver based, natural solution into its Coolskyn yarn which prevents micro-organisms multiplying on the textile surface. The result, Coolskyn+, retains the stay dry technology of Coolskyn but also tackles bacterial growth at source to prevent garments ageing prematurely. The silver ions also protect against ugly stains and unpleasant smells to ensure long lasting durability and freshness.

Sportswear does a fantastic job of capturing perspiration. Bacteria, the root cause of body odour, grow when it’s warm and wet, so positively thrive in sweaty conditions. In a two pronged attack, Coolskyn+ wicks the sweat away from the skin to the fabric surface where it can evaporate, eliminating coldness and 'skin cling'. Meanwhile, on contact with perspiration, the embedded silver ions with their anti bacterial effect are released from within the Coolskyn+ fabric, suppress the bacterial growth responsible for bad smells (Staphylococcus Aureus) and provide 99.9% protection against major health hazardous micro-organisms.

"Clothes that regulate body climate and break boundaries are an essential part of any sports kit," says Gary Drake (pictured above), former British Singles and Doubles Tennis Champion. A member of the GB over 35's team and the All England Club Wimbledon, Gary is a strong advocate of RTG's Skyn technology, testing it on court whilst spreading its sweet smell of success amongst his young protégés. "Coolskyn+ doesn't stop you sweating, it prevents garments reeking because of it.  Good news for any athlete looking to push themselves to the limit," he adds.

Plymouth based RTG, is a dynamic and entrepreneurial business, with innovation at its helm. Its Skyns performance clothing range is built on a revolutionary material, manufactured right down to the weave in RTG's own factory and knitting facility, enabling low costs and high quality.

Over the last 18 years, RTG has designed, supplied and manufactured branded clothing and merchandise for some of the biggest brands in the world. During that time it has developed an impressive portfolio which is currently serviced by over 500 employees, and is a preferred partner to the likes of Emirates, Mark Warner, ScrewFix, Virgin and Barbour.

RTG's Skyns Clothing range includes Coolskyn+ , Coolskyn, BrightSkyn, and Thermoskyn. Coolskyn is a high performance 100% wicking polyester fabric that maintains body climate to keep the wearer dry, cool and comfortable. BrightSkyn provides a BSEN471 high visibility option in 3 different fabric weights and Thermoskyn harnesses the power of nanotechnology, controlling body climate and boasting superior stain, water and oil resistant properties.

South West based RTG, a world-wide specialist in textile and contract manufacturing, has created an in-flight Microfleece Poncho using its innovative Skyns fabric technology. RTG’s latest creative injection, soon to be launched in the ultra competitive skies, will ensure the cabin experience stays fresh and people leave their customised journeys feeling valued and pampered.

The revolutionary poncho, which can also double up as a blanket, is made from Thermoskyn, a pioneering fabric that harnesses the power of nanotechnology and modified fibres. The chemicals in nanotechnology form a molecular bond with the fabric to provide unrivalled performance capabilities that include water resistance, superior stain and pill resistance. Low maintenance, hypoallergenic and designed to insulate and last, the lightweight hydrophobic breakthrough poncho also controls body climate, dries quickly and is soft and comfortable. A range of temporary and permanent anti-static treatments can also be applied to the fabric finishing stage to create a short life premium product for integration into comfort packs or a long life alternative that is washed and recycled.

Inspired by the lotus leaf, nanotechnology mimics nature so that liquids slide down the fabric of the poncho instead of soaking into the material. This extreme water repellence provides great protection when flying, especially against spilt drinks.  Part of a new wave of creative comfort concepts designed by RTG to build value into a flight, a hooded and sleeved version of the Poncho is also in development.  They both offer airlines the opportunity to create a calm and relaxed cabin experience as well as a first class reminder of a remarkable journey.

"A real alternative to the modacrylic blanket, the poncho is one of many innovative products in RTG's R&D stable that offer a keen price and great opportunities for branding," says Andy Drake, Co-Founder & Director, RTG International which already designs and manufactures cutting edge amenity kits, sleep suits and blankets for Virgin, Emirates and Egypt Air. "As we manufacture the poncho in our own factories, we extract savings, eliminate agents and provide airlines with total control," he adds.

RTG International Ltd - the contract manufacturer and supplier of branded apparel, footwear and textiles - is pleased to announce that it is to shortly commence a joint venture project, with leading overseas organization and manufacturer of textile related retail based products that will be marketed throughout Europe and in due course worldwide.

To facilitate this change, sister company RTG Global Ltd will henceforth be responsible for all existing manufacture and supply of customer own label and branded products, and is set to focus on expanding it's offer to both existing and new customers.

Whilst running independently of each other, the owners of both companies are excited about the future prospects for the refocused businesses. Andy Drake, an Owner/Director of both companies suggested that:

"Although the businesses will be run independently by different management teams with differing markets and strategies, as a result of the joint venture, RTG companies will have access to a fantastic manufacturing plant for certain products that both the existing and new customers will benefit". 

RTG now manufacture in China, Bangladesh and India and have over 40 years experience in supplying bespoke technical product solutions for its customer, often utilizing RTG's trademarked SKYNS textile technology.

For further information please call Andy Drake on 01752 395065