Halcyon Studio Ireland: Martial Arts and Grappling Range Comparison Test
Halcyon Studio is a Ireland-based brand whose martial arts and grappling range is one of its most demanding programmes. We tested the new compression warp knit against the fabric Halcyon Studio used last season. Both were made into identical garments and evaluated side by side for martial arts and grappling range.
Halcyon Studio: Compression Warp Knit in use during grappling and repeated mat contact
Evaluation background
The programme covers training tops, shorts and rash guards, used for grappling and repeated mat contact. The environment is high friction and frequent industrial laundering and the requirement written into the brief was tear strength with antibacterial protection. Fabric was selected on that basis rather than on price alone.
Fabric under evaluation
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Compression Warp Knit |
| Composition | 72% nylon / 28% spandex |
| Weight | 230 GSM |
| Width | 170 cm |
| Primary function | delivers graduated support that stays measurable over time |
| Target | recovery above 92% after repeated extension |
| Test method | ASTM D2594 |
| Additional note | power held in the 18-25 N band |
| Certification | OEKO-TEX Standard 100 |
Compression Warp Knit close-up showing the fabric surface
What was compared
Construction, weight and colour were held constant. The only difference was the fabric, which is the only way a comparison tells you anything useful.
Laboratory comparison
The new fabric reached recovery above 92% after repeated extension against ASTM D2594, while the previous material missed the same target. Comfort measurements were closer, which is expected because hand had already been approved.
Evaluation session with the Halcyon Studio team
Wear comparison
Over four weeks the difference appeared during high friction and frequent industrial laundering. Wearers described the new version as cleaner and lighter in use, even though the scales said the two garments weighed the same.
Cost comparison
The upgrade adds a modest amount per garment. Measured against the return rate of the previous season, the change pays for itself within a single drop.
Test records and inspection notes for the Martial Arts and Grappling Range
Scorecard
| Criterion | Result |
|---|---|
| Function | 4.5 / 5 |
| Comfort | 4.7 / 5 |
| Durability | 4.4 / 5 |
| Appearance | 4.6 / 5 |
| Cost efficiency | 4.5 / 5 |
“The report gave us numbers we could put in front of our retail partners without any argument.” — Halcyon Studio Technical Team
Packed bulk rolls before shipment to Ireland
Verdict and recommendation
The new compression warp knit outperformed the previous fabric on every measured criterion and we recommend switching the whole programme over. For Halcyon Studio the practical next steps are to keep the current specification for the repeat, retain the shade standard, and issue ASTM D2594 results with every lot so any claim can be supported with data.
