Uniqlo, a Japanese clothing chain owned by Fast Retailing announced its plans to sell face masks made out of fabric used for its Airism underwear line in response to strong demand for protective gear for the coronavirus.
The Airism undergarments feature a specially-developed fabric known for a smooth, silky feel. The company says the fabric also keeps the wearer cool in the summer months by releasing moisture and heat.
Uniqlo uses AIRism in several lines of underwear for both men and women, including boxer briefs. It also uses the versatile fabric in shirts, hoodies, jackets, leggings, active wear, and loungewear. According to Nikkei Asian Review, the line is popular around the world — total AIRism sales are estimated at almost 100 million units globally.
The company had previously been wary of making face masks, but a spokeswoman said it changed its mind after receiving many requests from customers to make them.
Additional Report: Journal Pioneer, SPIN.ph
Image Source: UNIQLO, ET retail
