German textile innovator Born GmbH has introduced Knitfoam, a new 100% polyester, mono-material knitted structure developed to deliver cushioning, flexibility, and breathability across a wide range of applications. The innovation is the latest result of R&D efforts at the company’s Smart Textiles Hub in Dresden, and reflects Born’s ongoing commitment to scalable, sustainable textile solutions.

Knitfoam’s flat knitted construction allows for a high degree of elasticity and comfort, while its open structure supports air flow, making it suitable for use in applications where breathability and pressure distribution are critical. The textile’s mono-material composition simplifies recycling at end-of-life, aligning with circular economy principles.

Application areas

In the healthcare and wearables sector, Knitfoam is being explored for use in prosthetic joints and smart garments, offering soft, adaptive cushioning without compromising sensor performance. In sportswear, it enables localised impact protection in garments such as cycling trousers or running shorts, all while preserving freedom of movement.

The material’s ergonomic properties also make it suitable for seating applications, including car seats and office chairs, where prolonged comfort and fatigue reduction are key. In the transport sector, Knitfoam is being considered for acoustic dampening in both automotive and aerospace interiors.

For lifestyle products, the textile is a potential fit for items like padded bags, hats, and footwear, providing lightweight protection without adding bulk.

Developed with industrial scalability in mind, Knitfoam can be adapted for diverse production requirements. Its single-polymer construction also positions it as an environmentally sound option for brands seeking more sustainable material solutions.

Technical knitting

Born has been an owner-run textile company since 1991 and has gradually developed into a technical knitting company, creating technical textiles, smart textiles and high-quality knitwear. With its many years of experience and expertise, the company develops creative solutions and implements them in series production.

Born’s technical knitting mill is characterised by precision, efficiency and quality and has state-of-the-art machinery and an experienced workforce to manufacture customised products according to the individual wishes of its customers.

Born has been ISO 9001 certified since 2021 and has been audited several times as a critical supplier in accordance with ISO 13485. The company is always open to new ideas and customer requests and is ready to grow with its customers. As a leading technical knitting mill with more than 85 employees at three locations, Born uses state-of-the-art textile and knitting machines to develop and produce pioneering, innovative textile products.

www.born-germany.de