The way most of us know fungi best is by mushrooms. Ecovative’s innovation, AirMycelium, is expanding the possibilities of working with mushrooms. This month, WTiN talks to Gavin McIntyre, co-founder of New York-based company, Ecovative. There is huge demand for sustainable and planet-friendly leather alternatives that feel, look and perform like the real thing. Ecovative has a specialised soft goods division called Forager that approaches the problem by using its AirMycelium technology to grow durable, synthetic-free and totally vegan materials for the fashion industry.

Grown in only nine days, Forager’s AirMycelium hides have a naturally high tensile strength, tear resistance, durability and other traits that are equal to animal leathers. If you want to get in touch with Ecovative, you can find them at forager.bio. To discuss any of our topics, get in touch by following @wtincomment and @rubyatwtin on Twitter, or email [email protected] directly. To explore sponsorship opportunities, email [email protected].