Katherine Homuth, a Canadian tech entrepreneur, has sparked a revolution in the fashion industry with her innovation in sustainable textiles. Her journey began in 2017 when she sought a solution for snag-resistant tights, aiming to create a more durable and long-lasting alternative to traditional tights. After experimenting with various materials, she discovered ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, the same material used in bulletproof vests. Though initially problematic and damaging factory equipment, Homuth persisted and founded her own research lab. This determination led to the creation of Sheertex, a brand that markets tights known for their remarkable durability.
According to Homuth, Sheertex tights last 10 times longer than conventional nylon and spandex tights, which are petroleum-based and contribute significantly to landfill waste. By creating a more durable product, she aims to reduce waste and make the fashion industry more sustainable. Since its launch, Sheertex has experienced rapid growth, with 2024 revenue projected at $30 million, despite a slight decline from 2023’s $45 million. Homuth is optimistic about the company’s future, with plans to reach $70 million in revenue by 2025.
Retail partnerships with brands like H&M, Costco, and QVC have been crucial in driving Sheertex’s growth, although challenges remain, particularly with wholesale pricing, which affects profit margins. To maintain growth, Homuth has significantly reduced production costs, from $50 per pair in 2018 to $12 currently, with a goal of bringing it down to $2.50. Sheertex tights are available in a variety of styles, starting at $19.99 at H&M, with specialty designs, such as micro fishnets, priced at $99 and sold directly by Sheertex.
The company has recently expanded its offerings by launching a private-label business, with collaborations like "Steve Madden X Sheertex" emphasizing durability and sustainability. In addition to tights, Homuth is extending the SRTX brand into sustainable materials. One of the latest innovations is Watertex, a non-toxic, water-repellent fabric free from PFAS chemicals, which are commonly found in outdoor gear. Watertex has been tested in swimsuits, demonstrating twice the drying speed of competitors' products. Homuth’s company is also working on Elasta, a recyclable alternative to spandex, which aims to replace the unsustainable fabrics commonly used in fashion.
Homuth envisions SRTX as a leader in sustainable material science, comparing its potential to that of DuPont in its prime. The company has already secured $143 million in funding, with investors including H&M and Lululemon founder Chip Wilson. A newly constructed 300,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Montreal is key to scaling production, with plans to produce 30 million pairs of tights by 2027, a dramatic increase from current volumes.
SRTX’s focus on sustainable materials positions the company to capitalize on changing regulations and market demands. With regions like Europe and states such as California banning PFAS chemicals, alternatives like Watertex are in high demand. The global market for waterproof, breathable textiles is already valued at $2 billion and growing, providing a significant opportunity for SRTX’s innovations to secure a large market share.
Despite the challenges of scaling production and adapting to retail changes, Homuth’s vision and drive for innovation continue to propel Sheertex and SRTX forward. By combining advanced material science with sustainability, she aims to redefine the fashion industry and address the environmental concerns associated with it. “It's more about the technology,” Homuth says, as she sets her sights on setting new standards for sustainable fashion.
