Workman has developed numerous rainwear pieces so far, but in 2024, they added a new series using their proprietary material "Future TECH."
"Future TECH" uses recycled PET bottles as raw material and reclaims, refines, and reuses the organic solvent gases used in the manufacturing process, emphasizing "eco-friendliness" while achieving high breathability and waterproofness.
This time, Koji Yamada, a Workman official ambassador and co-developer of the "Future TECH Rain Suit," interviewed Workman Product Development Division 6 Chief Buyer Yutaro Hagura about the development episodes.
From "Rain Coat" to "Rainwear": The Turning Point
Yamada Koji (Yamada)Please tell us about the history of rainwear at Workman.
Yutaro Hagura (Hagura)Nowadays, we also use stylish names like "rainwear," but about ten years ago, we only had baggy work clothes called "rain coats" with no fashion sense.
The turning point was the release of the "R006" rainwear in 2015, when outdoor wear was becoming common for town use. The "R006" was developed by Workman from the material, using stretch fabric, which was rare even for outdoor brands at the time.
HaguraAt that time, the baseline price for Workman's rainwear was 1,900 yen. In comparison, the "R006" was significantly higher at 4,900 yen for a set, yet it sold explosively, prompting us to focus more on the outdoor aspects of rainwear.
By utilizing the characteristics of stretch material, we achieved a slimmer fit, marking a significant fashion evolution.
After the huge success of "R006," our customer base shifted. Previously, most customers were workers, but now we have many seeking rainwear for camping, fishing, and biking.
Pursuing Fashion Led to High Specs
YamadaHow did the concept for "Future TECH" come about?
HaguraBy co-developing with Yamada, we have increased town-use products in Workman. But at one point, we noticed a lack of casual-use rainwear in the market. Essentially, there was no rainwear for the most extensive range of needs.
So, we embarked on creating fashionable rainwear that can be worn casually.
Many materials used in rainwear have a sheen and can look cheap. So, the key point was to get the texture closer to casual wear.
Yamada"Future TECH Rain Suit" has a waterproof rating of 30,000mm and a breathability rating of 20,000g/m2/24h, making it top-class among Workman's rainwear.
HaguraWe were meticulous about the material's appearance, using short-fiber polyester twill fabric to replicate the feel of natural materials. As a result, despite focusing on fashion, we ended up with an extremely high-spec material (laughs).
HaguraThe back side has a tricot-like 3D print to create depth, making it less sticky and comfortable even in high humidity.
HaguraWe paid attention to the details, minimizing visible stitches with bonding. Visible stitches can make it look too workwear-like.
HaguraWe aimed to "stealthify" the rainwear's functions. The chest pocket with a waterproof zipper is designed to be concealed by fabric.
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