We don’t just produce fabric.
We study wool.
At Reda, research begins with a deep understanding of Merino wool, one of the most complex fibers found in nature.
The Research and Development department was established to unlock the full potential of Merino wool and transform acquired knowledge into tangible process and product solutions for the textile industry.
Through an interdisciplinary approach that combines expertise in textiles, chemistry, and technology, research becomes an essential part of the industrial process and guides Reda’s evolution.
Research as a driver of excellence
At Reda, research is a fundamental pillar of the industrial process, playing a strategic and essential role in achieving the company’s standards of excellence.
Since 2000, the Research and Development department has applied scientific rigor to the study of wool properties, with the aim of translating acquired knowledge into tangible product innovation.
It is a continuous process that brings together multidisciplinary expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and a strong network of internal and external collaborations. This approach expands the company’s knowledge base and supports the development of innovative, advanced solutions.
An integrated system of knowledge
The Research and Development department operates as an integrated network of expertise, where different disciplines interact in a structured and collaborative way.
Knowledge in chemistry, engineering, material analysis, and textile technology comes together in a multidisciplinary approach that makes it possible to study wool from new perspectives and transfer expertise from industries beyond the textile sector.
This dynamic system continuously drives innovation through three different models of knowledge transfer:
- technology transfer
- transfer of advanced analytical tools
- transfer of expertise across people and disciplines
From knowledge to product
Every research project begins with an in-depth understanding of the fiber. Merino wool is a complex material, and only through a detailed analysis of its physical and chemical properties is it possible to develop innovative product solutions.
From the initial study, the process moves through prototype development and final validation. Every innovation undergoes rigorous testing, is demonstrated, and is translated into a tangible result, ensuring that the added value of the product is immediately recognizable both within the organization and to the end customer.
The path to innovation is shaped by trials, errors, and continuous revisions. Every obstacle becomes an opportunity for growth, while every change in direction opens new possibilities.
Knowledge evolves through this process, giving rise to ideas rooted in experience and projected toward the future. From this perspective, research is not only a method, but a philosophy in which professionalism is measured by the ability to embrace uncertainty and recognize failure as the first step toward excellence.
Innovation as a synergy between product and process
Research and Development activity delivers a tangible impact on the final product. Every innovation developed in Reda’s laboratories is transferred directly into its fabrics, bringing meaningful improvements in performance, functionality, and aesthetics.
This approach enables Reda to anticipate market developments and offer increasingly advanced solutions while maintaining the optimal balance between innovation, quality, and responsibility.
Research areas
To guide innovation in a structured way, Reda has identified several strategic areas of development that represent its main fields of experimentation.
Chemical science
Green chemistry
Recycling
Innovation
Technology transfer
Know-how
A journey in constant evolution
Over time, Reda’s research activity has led to the development of innovative solutions that have helped redefine the potential of wool.
These include:
- naturally stretch fabrics made from pure Merino wool
- research into natural dyes
- technical and biodegradable membranes
- regenerated fibers from alternative sources
- temperature-regulating technologies
- low-water printing processes
A path of continuous development, driven by projects designed to improve performance, process efficiency, and environmental impact.
A history of continuous innovation
Since 2000, when the Research and Development department was established, Reda has pursued a structured and rigorous path of innovation focused on the scientific study of wool and the development of increasingly advanced technological solutions.
Over the years, its research activities have generated projects and technologies that have significantly expanded the potential of Merino wool, redefining its possible applications across industrial and creative fields.
The Research and Development department is established with the aim of developing innovation applied to wool and manufacturing processes.
Natural Stretch is developed, a naturally elastic fabric made from pure wool without the use of synthetic fibers.
Gaia Project is developed, focusing on experimentation with natural dyes derived from plant extracts.
2003-2007
Advanced analytical technologies are introduced, together with the first examples of technology transfer from industries beyond textiles, including pharmaceutical and chemical instruments used for material analysis.
2007-2010
Experimental projects begin on new fibers and hybrid materials, including the use of proteins derived from alternative sources and the development of innovative wool treatment solutions.
2010-2014
New technologies are introduced to improve temperature regulation and comfort, including fabrics capable of storing and releasing heat and high-performance technical membranes.
2014-2018
Development of ultralight, breathable membranes. Introduction and development of Lifeproof membrane, a patented biodegradable membrane designed to deliver protection and performance.
2019-2020
New Active solutions are implemented to improve fabric freshness and comfort. Pure wool shirting materials are developed, together with enhancements to white fabric performance.
Low-water inkjet printing technologies are introduced, supporting customization and reduced environmental impact.
Today
Research continues through the implementation of new projects focused on reducing environmental impact, recycling, process efficiency, performance, and technological innovation, with the aim of continuously developing and elevating the role of wool in the future.
Wool performance.
A central area of research is dedicated to studying and demonstrating the natural performance of wool.
Through tests developed in-house, Reda analyzes and makes tangible properties such as:
- thermoregulation
- breathability
- odor absorption
- wrinkle resistance
- water repellency
These properties, which are intrinsic to the fiber, are studied, measured, and enhanced to create increasingly high-performing and versatile products.
Experiencing research
The Research and Development department also serves as an experiential space dedicated to excellence.
In this way, research becomes a tangible experience, making visible and understandable aspects that would otherwise remain hidden.
Responsible innovation
Every research project is designed to reduce environmental impact, improve process efficiency, and develop more responsible materials while maintaining high quality standards.
A balance between technological progress and respect for the environment guides every decision.