ITEM m6 Durability

ITEM m6 stands for functional Bodywear, innovation and expertise. Decades of experience in compression fabrics guarantee products with superior comfort, effective impact and quality that is made in Germany. Our high-tech compression products score top in tests for robustness against abrasion, shape retention and elasticity, and resistance to laddering.

The durability is tested using the most commonly applied method, Martindale method (DIN EN ISO 12947-2). Round samples of our high-tech knit fabric are cut out from the thigh area and stretched and clamped onto the Martindale abrasion test device. The sample is weighted with 100 g/cm² and the machine repeatedly rubs the fabric against a standard wool textile surface. After 20,000 rub cycles the stocking is still evaluated as in good condition.

Our smart compression effect uses the right compression profile to deliver improved blood circulation. Despite the marked stretching involved in putting them on, the compression effect remains as strong as on the first day. That’s because our intelligent fit adapts perfectly to the body and provides the ultimate support all day long. We have devised a test protocol that uses a force gage and expansion measuring device. The stockings are clamped at the knee area and then stretched alternating from 30 % to 60 %. This is repeated 100 times; we then measure the extent of shape loss for stockings with guaranteed perfect shape.

We test the susceptibility to runs with a set-up we developed ourselves. This is where the most fearsome enemy of sheer tights comes in: the fish hook. With a spring scale to measure the force applied, a section from the thigh area of the tights is clamped in the device at a stretch extension of 20 %. A fine fish hook is allowed to catch on approx. 3 stitches. The spring scale with a weight of up to 1000 grams is then pulled upwards as the ladders test runs its course.