What is Goldwin Tech Lab?

Goldwin Tech Lab is located in Toyama Prefecture, where Goldwin was founded.

The lab, which was renovated from a former sewing factory, combines three roles: a research and development function based on Goldwin’s manufacturing technology; a mother factory function to practice and implement ideas; and an information dissemination function to communicate with the world through the inspiration derived from those ideas. It is a facility that continues to explore the future of manufacturing.

In the development of sportswear, in particular, specialized knowledge is integrated from multiple perspectives and research is being advanced.

For example, the application of 3D scanning technology to uniform pattern design contributes to the development of uniforms for the Japanese national rugby team. Furthermore, the facility is equipped with equipment that can reproduce environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity, making it possible to develop products that help protect the lives of mountain climbers, adventurers, and other sportsmen.

In terms of material evaluation, the lab handles colorfastness tests from all angles, including color fading, friction, and washing, which demonstrates a thorough commitment to quality.

In this way, Goldwin Tech Lab integrates a wide variety of elements that are indispensable for serious clothing production and the passion to constantly seek evolution.

What They Learnt from This Program

We spoke with Misaki Suda, Kiyoshi Tomiyama, and Mitsuki Murata—who participated in the on-site program—about what they learned and the new perspectives they gained during this experience, which will inform their final works.

— What was your overall impression of the facility tour?

“Typically, the planning department, pattern factory, sewing factory, research lab, embroidery factory, and print factory are all located in separate places. However, by having all of these functions integrated into a single building, I felt that Goldwin is able to achieve experimental and truly innovative manufacturing.”

“Under Goldwin’s singular brand vision, it is extremely valuable to have an environment where specialized departments—such as product development, production, and research—can operate independently yet interact synergistically to create something concrete.”

“I learned that Goldwin’s origin was a knitwear factory. They have a mindset of constantly developing products one step ahead of necessity and evolving with the times. I was inspired by this perspective on craftsmanship and want to incorporate it into my own work.”

— What was the most interesting part for you?

“The existence of tools for making tools was fascinating. While data science, 3D programming, and nano-level development are all appealing, I was personally intrigued by the fields where the human element and intuition still play a role, beyond just the machinery.” 

“I was overwhelmed by the garment creation process, which goes beyond superficial design. It involves intricate calculations based on functionality, durability, the wearer’s physique, and the precise scenarios in which the garment will be used.”

“The ability to perform 3D scanning to derive precise dimensional data was the most interesting. For instance, even with the same bust circumference, identifying the exact point of maximum protrusion allows them to precisely determine the front-to-back difference from the side seam. This ensures the garment is perfectly tailored to the wearer’s size. That aspect particularly captivated me.”

In addition, they expressed strong feedback, such as:

“I strongly hope to spend more time on visiting, observing, understanding the technology, and discussing with the Tech Lab team.”

“The roundtable discussion, held face-to-face with engineers and researchers, generated valuable new perspectives.”

These comments affirm that this experience will be invaluable for their upcoming creative work.

Furthermore, this visit seems to have sparked a wide variety of ideas for applying Goldwin’s proprietary technology and the latest techniques used in the Tech Lab.

Programs like this are essential as they provide inspiration that cannot be obtained through typical production processes, significantly broadening the scope of the participants’ creations.

They will present their new works at this year’s program award ceremony. 

Please look forward to their presentations.

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