Sports & Outdoor

Montane: A Guide to Fabrics & Technologies

Since its very beginning, Montane has worked with the world’s leading fabric suppliers in its quest to create some of the world’s best outdoor clothing, footwear and accessories. Today Montane collaborates with industry-leading fabric technology brands including Pertex and works with such recognised fabrics as GORE to create collections designed to meet the demanding requirements of mountaineers, alpinists, and trail runners in even the most extreme conditions.

With the Montane collection expanding and diversifying with each new season, so too does its technical expertise. The Hut offers a comprehensive to the fabrics and technologies you may come across in your experience of the brand and its new collection.

Contents

GORE-TEX
Pertex
PrimaLoft
Polartec
Allied Feather & Down
AQUAPRO Dynamic

7D Ultra
Cuben Fiber
Raptor UTL
Raptor TL
Chameleon
DP VX-21

 

 GORE-TEX

GORE-TEX ACTIVE SHELL

Garments made with lightweight GORE-TEX® Active fabric are extremely breathable combined with durable water and windproofness. The ideal solution for highly aerobic, done-in-a-day activities.

Garments made with GORE-TEX® Active fabric are durably waterproof, windproof and extremely breathable – the most breathable fabric in the GORE-TEX® product family. Meeting the intense aerobic demands of the alpine athlete, these fabrics are the ideal solution for highly aerobic done-in-a-day activities, even in bad weather. Garments made with GORE-TEX® Active fabric are lightweight and soft, with excellent next-to-skin comfort, thanks to reliable moisture management. The fabric’s construction keeps your body dry by reducing the accumulation of sweat so you stay cool during activity and warm during cool-down. With GORE-TEX® Active fabric, you can put the garment on, leave it on and focus on the experience rather than your clothing.

Technical Description

GORE-TEX® Active product technology combines a lighter, thinner GORE-TEX® membrane with a fine ≤40 denier performance textile to deliver an ultimate 3-layer solution. On the liner side, a proprietary lamination technology integrates the backer textile directly into the GORE-TEX® membrane. The streamlined laminate package and the optimised garment design exhibit utmost heat loss and moisture vapour transport properties, thus holding true to the GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY™ promise.

Features & Benefits

  • Extremely breathable: Reduced accumulation of sweat (RET <3). Drier from the inside even during periods of high activity.
  • Durably water and windproof: Reliable weather protection for the useful life of the garment.
  • Excellent next-to-skin comfort: Very comfortable next to your skin during and immediately after periods of high activity.
  • Specially developed for highly aerobic activities: The garment can be worn over the full range of activity levels and environmental conditions.
  • Lightweight: With a fine ≤40 denier performance textile and an outer weight of less than 400 grams per garment the ideal companion for light and fast activities.

GORE-TEX C-KNIT

Garments such as the men’s Montane Surge Jacket are made with the new 3-layer GORE-TEX® products with GORE® C-KNIT™ backer technology are durably waterproof, breathable and windproof. The lightweight construction delivers improved comfort for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, trekking, all mountain skiing/snowboarding and freeriding.

Garments made with the new 3-layer GORE-TEX® products with GORE® C-KNIT™ backer technology are durably waterproof, breathable and windproof. This lightweight 3-layer fabric delivers improved comfort without compromising the durability necessary to withstand the physical hazards often encountered outdoors. The high level of breathability, combined with the guaranteed waterproof and windproof protection that comes with the GORE-TEX® brand, delivers optimal comfort and protection for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, trekking, all mountain skiing/snowboarding and freeriding in a wide range of conditions.

Technical Description

The 3-layer GORE-TEX® fabric with GORE® C-KNIT™ backer technology optimises comfort while providing durable, waterproof and windproof protection. The reliable and proven bi-component GORE-TEX® membrane system is bonded to an extremely thin, dense yet lightweight circular knit to form a patent-pending laminate. Weighing up to 10 percent less than previous 3-layer GORE-TEX® fabric, this new laminate improves breathability by as much as 15 percent in a less bulky, more robust three-layer construction. The smooth texture of the knit backing is soft to the touch, and makes the garment easier to slide on and off over other layers.

Features & Benefits

  • Optimal comfort with breathability increased by as much as 15 percent*
  • Lighter garments are possible with a 10 percent reduction in fabric weight*
  • Long-lasting weather protection backed by the GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY™ promise
  • Uncompromised durability without added bulk from the three-layer construction
  • Visual differentiation from other backers from circular knit pattern

GORE-TEX PRO

The new generation of GORE-TEX® Pro products includes the Montane Endurance Pro Jacket a key piece of kit from the men’s waterproof jacket range. Improved ruggedness 5 End uses and up to 28 % increased breathability compared to our previous product generation, combined with durable water and windproofness. The result: better comfort in more conditions for (ski) mountaineers, freeriders, mountain guides and serious outdoor enthusiasts.

With its revolutionary, patent pending membrane technology the new generation of GORE-TEX® Pro products offers improved ruggedness and up to 28 % increased breathability compared to our previous product generation, combined with the durable water and windproofness you have come to expect from GORE-TEX® products. This means reliable protection even in rugged environments, minimised risk of sweat accumulation and maximised comfort in different weather conditions and activity levels. In short: better comfort in more conditions. Garments engineered with the new generation of GORE-TEX® Pro fabric are specially made for extended use by (ski) mountaineers, freeriders, mountain guides and serious outdoor enthusiasts operating in extreme and unpredictable conditions with frequent workrest cycles.

Technical Description

To develop the new generation of garments with GORE-TEX® Pro product technology the whole garment system, including the choice of membrane and textiles, has been optimised. The new generation of GORE-TEX® Pro products exclusively utilises a revolutionary, patent pending, 100 % ePTFEbased multilayer membrane system with a unique microstructure. The membrane is durably bonded to the outer material and a specially developed robust inner lining on the inside (Gore Micro Grid Backer technology). Outer materials that meet strict performance criteria (denier ≥40) and the patented Gore Micro Grid Backer technology for high internal abrasion and snag resistance ensure the high performance of the garment. Paired with its demanding garment design specification, the new generation of GORE-TEX® Pro product technology brings a completely new level of comfort and protection into the world of our most rugged GORE-TEX® Pro products.

Features & Benefits

  • Improved ruggedness: Durable protection even in rugged environments and extreme conditions. Long lasting performance and longer garment life.
  • Up to 28 % increased breathability: Minimised risk of sweat accumulation and maximised comfort at different activity levels. Enhanced comfort across a wider range of weather conditions, even during activities with frequent work-rest cycles.
  • Durable water and windproofness: Reliable weather protection throughout the garment’s entire lifetime, even for extended periods in extreme conditions.

 

Pertex

35 years of experience & technical knowledge: the journey so far

The concept of the fabric that later became Pertex® was an idea of Hamish Hamilton, who some 35 years ago discovered that moisture would move along the microscopic capillaries within a woven fabric, spreading over a larger surface where it quickly dried. Montane use Petex on a wide range of men and women’s waterproof jackets, clothing and accessories.

Hamish brought his idea to Perseverance Mills Ltd, a Lancashire textile manufacturer specializing in very lightweight, tightly woven synthetic fabrics used in dot matrix printers for the rapidly growing data processing industry.

The Pertex brand was born.

Pertex Quantum

Pertex technologies are amongst the lightest, most reliable and most durable on the market. A long-established heritage of staying true to its British roots has led Pertex on a path of continuous innovation to deliver the best end-use focused fabrics in the business.

Pertex’s approach closely matches Montane’s own focus of engineering lightweight, breathable clothing and equipment for endurance sports in extreme environments. Obsessed by product and pioneering fit-for-purpose designs, we have worked with Pertex since our beginnings in 1993 to create weatherproof garments that allow you to push your boundaries.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 100% Polyamide (nylon)
  • Weight: <35g/m²
  • Air permeability: 1.0cc (max)
  • Main properties: Featherweight, optimum strength to weight ratio, windproof, downproof

Pertex Shield

Pertex technologies are amongst the lightest, most reliable and most durable on the market. Such products using specifically Pertex Shield are the men’s Atomic Jacket and Atomic Pants. Pertex has a long-established heritage of staying true to its British roots has led Pertex on a path of continuous innovation to deliver the best end-use focused fabrics in the business.

Pertex’s approach closely matches Montane’s own focus of engineering lightweight, breathable clothing and equipment for endurance sports in extreme environments. Obsessed by product and pioneering fit-for-purpose designs, we have worked with Pertex since our beginnings in 1993 to create weatherproof garments that allow you to push your boundaries.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Waterproof (hydrostatic head): 10,000mm
  • Breathability (MVTR): 6,000 – 7,000g/m²/24hrs
  • Main properties: Balanced wind and water protection, core performance, excellent durability

Pertex Classic

Pertex technologies are amongst the lightest, most reliable and most durable on the market. A long-established heritage of staying true to its British roots has led Pertex on a path of continuous innovation to deliver the best end-use focused fabrics in the business.

Pertex’s approach closely matches Montane’s own focus of engineering lightweight, breathable clothing and equipment for endurance sports in extreme environments. Obsessed by product and pioneering fit-for-purpose designs, we have worked with Pertex since our beginnings in 1993 to create weatherproof garments that allow you to push your boundaries.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 100% Polyamide (nylon)
  • Weight: >60g/m²
  • Air permeability: 1.0cc max
  • Main properties: Maximum tear strength, maximum abrasion resistance, best value

Pertex Endurance

Pertex technologies are amongst the lightest, most reliable and most durable on the market. A long-established heritage of staying true to its British roots has led Pertex on a path of continuous innovation to deliver the best end-use focused fabrics in the business.

Pertex’s approach closely matches Montane’s own focus of engineering lightweight, breathable clothing and equipment for endurance sports in extreme environments. Obsessed by product and pioneering fit-for-purpose designs, we have worked with Pertex since our beginnings in 1993 to create weatherproof garments that allow you to push your boundaries.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Waterproof (hydrostatic head): 1,000mm
  • Breathability (MVTR): 7,000g/m²/24hrs
  • Main properties: Excellent breathability, lightweight, 100% windproof, highly water resistant

Pertex Moonlight

Pertex technologies are amongst the lightest, most reliable and most durable on the market. A long-established heritage of staying true to its British roots has led Pertex on a path of continuous innovation to deliver the best end-use focused fabrics in the business.

Pertex’s approach closely matches Montane’s own focus of engineering lightweight, breathable clothing and equipment for endurance sports in extreme environments. Obsessed by product and pioneering fit-for-purpose designs, we have worked with Pertex since our beginnings in 1993 to create weatherproof garments that allow you to push your boundaries.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 100% Polyamide (nylon)
  • Weight: <35g/m²
  • Air permeability: 1.0cc (max)
  • Main properties: Lightweight, soft, windproof, downproof, durable

Pertex Equilibrium

Pertex technologies are amongst the lightest, most reliable and most durable on the market. A long-established heritage of staying true to its British roots has led Pertex on a path of continuous innovation to deliver the best end-use focused fabrics in the business.

Pertex’s approach closely matches Montane’s own focus of engineering lightweight, breathable clothing and equipment for endurance sports in extreme environments. Obsessed by product and pioneering fit-for-purpose designs, we have worked with Pertex since our beginnings in 1993 to create weatherproof garments that allow you to push your boundaries.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Weave: Duplex
  • Main properties: Density and denier gradient structure moves moisture away from the skin, weatherproof, tough and durable, very low comparable weight and packing volume

Pertex Quantum Y

Pertex technologies are amongst the lightest, most reliable and most durable on the market. A long-established heritage of staying true to its British roots has led Pertex on a path of continuous innovation to deliver the best end-use focused fabrics in the business.

Pertex’s approach closely matches Montane’s own focus of engineering lightweight, breathable clothing and equipment for endurance sports in extreme environments. Obsessed by product and pioneering fit-for-purpose designs, we have worked with Pertex since our beginnings in 1993 to create weatherproof garments that allow you to push your boundaries.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Main properties: Excellent downproofness, beautiful sheen, strong tear strength, soft handle
  • Bluesign® certified fabric: manufactured to strict environmental standards using safe production methods which eliminate the use of harmful substances

Pertex Shield +

Pertex technologies are amongst the lightest, most reliable and most durable on the market. A long-established heritage of staying true to its British roots has led Pertex on a path of continuous innovation to deliver the best end-use focused fabrics in the business. Petex Shield + is used on the men’s Minimus 777 Pull-On part of the men’s waterproof jacket range, as its a supremely lightweight, breathable and packable fabric technology.

Pertex’s approach closely matches Montane’s own focus of engineering lightweight, breathable clothing and equipment for endurance sports in extreme environments. Obsessed by product and pioneering fit-for-purpose designs, we have worked with Pertex since our beginnings in 1993 to create weatherproof garments that allow you to push your boundaries.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Waterproof (hydrostatic head): 20,000mm
  • Breathability (MVTR): 20,000g/m²/24hrs
  • Main properties: Lightness and freedom of movement, maximum performance, breathability and softness

Pertex Eco

Pertex technologies are amongst the lightest, most reliable and most durable on the market. A long-established heritage of staying true to its British roots has led Pertex on a path of continuous innovation to deliver the best end-use focused fabrics in the business.

Pertex’s approach closely matches Montane’s own focus of engineering lightweight, breathable clothing and equipment for endurance sports in extreme environments. Obsessed by product and pioneering fit-for-purpose designs, we have worked with Pertex since our beginnings in 1993 to create weatherproof garments that allow you to push your boundaries.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 100% Polyamide (nylon)
  • Weight: >60g/m²
  • Air permeability: 1.0cc (max)
  • Main properties: Maximum tear strength, maximum abrasion resistance, best value

Pertex Shield AP

Pertex technologies are amongst the lightest, most reliable and most durable on the market. A long-established heritage of staying true to its British roots has led Pertex on a path of continuous innovation to deliver the best end-use focused fabrics in the business.

Pertex’s approach closely matches Montane’s own focus of engineering lightweight, breathable clothing and equipment for endurance sports in extreme environments. Our Air Jacket part of our waterproof jacket range uses Pertex Sheild AP because its very lightweight and breathable. We, Montane, are obsessed by product and pioneering fit-for-purpose designs, we have worked with Pertex since our beginnings in 1993 to create weatherproof garments that allow you to push your boundaries.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Main properties: Waterproof, tough and durable, highly moisture permeable, exceptional comfort and performance

PrimaLoft

Founded in the 1980s, PrimaLoft’s origins stem back to meeting a need within the US Army for a water resistant, synthetic alternative to down.

From this original premise, the PrimaLoft that we know today now manufactures a variety of innovative synthetic materials and performance yarns for the outdoor market such as our down and synthetic insulated jackets. PrimaLoft fabrics are acknowledged globally as the benchmark in performance insulation. It focuses on four main design criteria:

  • Warmer: Use of a proprietary blend of small diameter fibres which trap more air to provide greater insulation. Gram for gram, PrimaLoft materials offer the best warmth to weight ratio and provide warmth, even when wet
  • Drier: Use of special permanent finishes and small diameter fibres make PrimaLoft insulation water resistant
  • Softer: Finer diameter fibres and a permanent proprietary finish make PrimaLoft insulation ultra soft
  • More compressible: Smaller diameter fibres allow PrimaLoft insulation materials to compress into smaller spaces

PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Active

Designed to provide insulation to cater specifically for an active lifestyle. An excess of heat during aerobic activity can leave you feeling damp and uncomfortable. PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Active provides efficient and effective insulation coupled with extreme breathability – perfect for regulation of heat levels during stop-start activities. Delivering softness packability and water resistance, its high breathability means PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Active is supremely versatile.

Millions of air pockets trap body heat to provide warmth in cold conditions. But when the exercise begins and more heat is generated, PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Active comes into its own. Stable enough to be paired with highly breathable shell and liner fabrics, it allows excess heat and moisture vapour to escape. No need to change to compensate for activity spikes.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 100% polyester
  • Weight: 40g/m²
  • Water repellence: Engineered with permanent water repellent PrimaLoft ultra fine fibres
  • Certified Bluesign® certified fabric: manufactured to strict environmental standards using safe production methods which eliminate the use of harmful substances
  • Main properties: Warm without bulk, water resistant, breathable, lightweight, packable, superior softness

PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Eco

Used in a wide range of Montane products, PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Eco offers a synergy of the excellent warmth, softness and comfort that PrimaLoft products are known for, in an environmentally friendly synthetic insulation.

Approximately 28 recycled water bottles are used in the production of each kilogram of PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Eco, which averages 6 bottles per finished jacket. This 70% recycled fibre technology is combined with a proprietary water repellent treatment and millions of air pockets for immediate warmth without weight or bulk, keeping you dry in wet weather.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 100% polyester
  • Water repellence: Engineered with permanent water repellent PrimaLoft ultra fine fibres
  • Certified Bluesign® certified fabric: manufactured to strict environmental standards using safe production methods which eliminate the use of harmful substances
  • Main properties: Mid-loft insulation, warm without bulk, wind & water resistant, warm when wet and fast drying, highly compressible, breathable, lightweight, packable, superior softness

PrimaLoft Gold Insulation

Designed to provide insulation to cater specifically for an active lifestyle. An excess of heat during aerobic activity can leave you feeling damp and uncomfortable. PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Active provides efficient and effective insulation coupled with extreme breathability – perfect for regulation of heat levels during stop-start activities. Delivering softness packability and water resistance, its high breathability means PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Active is supremely versatile.

Millions of air pockets trap body heat to provide warmth in cold conditions. But when the exercise begins and more heat is generated, PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Active comes into its own. Stable enough to be paired with highly breathable shell and liner fabrics, it allows excess heat and moisture vapour to escape. No need to change to compensate for activity spikes.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 100% polyester
  • Weight:40g/m²
  • Water repellence:Water repellence: Engineered with permanent water repellent PrimaLoft ultra fine fibres
  • Certified:Bluesign® certified fabric – manufactured to strict environmental standards using safe production methods which eliminate the use of harmful substance
  • Main properties:: Mid and high loft insulation Supreme warmth to weight ratio

PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Luxe

THE NEW GOLD STANDARD: Unrivalled warmth to weight

PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation Luxe looks like down, feels like down and performs like down but unlike its natural counterpart, Luxe comes with one outstanding benefit. This synthetic down alternative offers superior wet-weather performance, keeping you protected for longer.

Made from a blend of millions of PrimaLoft® ultrafine fibres, each given a proprietary water-repellent finish that keeps moisture out and warmth in for all-day comfort and freedom. The result is a luxuriously silky fill with the warmth, compressibility, and a lightweight loft of down that creates an attractive, sought-after silhouette.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 100% polyester
  • Weight: 40g/m²
  • Water repellence: Engineered with permanent water repellent PrimaLoft ultra fine fibres
  • Certified Bluesign® certified fabric: manufactured to strict environmental standards using safe production methods which eliminate the use of harmful substances
  • Main properties: Warm without weight, water resistant, breathable, lightweight, packable, superior softness

PrimaLoft Insulation Down-Blend

THE ULTIMATE HYBRID OF PRIMALOFT AND WATER REPELLENT DOWN: Outstanding warmth in the most extreme conditions

A blend of 30% ultra fine synthetic PrimaLoft fibres and 70% water repellent natural goose down, Primaloft Gold Insulation Down Blend is the no compromise ultimate fusion. It offers the same warmth as 750+ fill power down and water resistance that maintains 95% of its warmth when wet. This game changing innovation has all the lightweight warmth, loft, packability and comfort of standard goose down, but with outstanding wet-weather thermal performance that dries 4x faster. Made with an environmentally safe water resistant technology free of fluorocarbons.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 70% water repellent natural goose down, 30% synthetic PrimaLoft fibres
  • Weight: 40g/m²
  • Water repellence: Engineered with permanent water repellent PrimaLoft ultra fine fibres
  • Certified: Bluesign® certified fabric – manufactured to strict environmental standards using safe production methods which eliminate the use of harmful substances
  • Main properties:  Warm as 750+ fill down, water resistant, breathable, lightweight, packable, superior softness

Polartec

Polartec was established in 1906 as Malden Mills in the USA providing wool knit outfits for soldiers through the two world wars. In 1956 the company moved to Lawrence in the Merrimack Valley, MA for innovation. In 1981 Polartec invented a revolutionary new fabric – synthetic fleece. Named one of the 20th century’s greatest innovations by Time Magazine, this fabric would turn outdoor dressing on its head.

Since then Polartec has become a continual source of game changing, category creating inventions:

  • Industry leader in post consumer recycling
  • Inventor of grid / void construction
  • Revolutionising soft shells
  • Reinventing the waterproof breathable category
  • Military R&D
  • Inventor of High Loft

Polartec’s ethos is one of ambition: ‘Where the impossible is made possible’ being one of the principle drivers of the company. Polartec’s mission is to invent fabrics with characteristics never seen before, create materials that perform at levels greater than anyone ever imagined and to remake entire industries by redefining what is worn in the outdoors.

Polartec 100 Series

Polartec 100 Series offers unparalleled quality and durability. A light weight fleece fabric, it provides effective warmth and breathability. Ideal for use within a layering system, the 100% polyester construction creates air pockets that trap air to retain body heat.

Resistant to pilling, Polartec 100 Series is durable and versatile enough to cope with robust use, be it scrambling, trekking or mountaineering.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 159g/m² 100% polyester knit, brushed both sides
  • Recycled content: 65% recycled polyester content
  • Bluesign® certified fabric: manufactured to strict environmental standards using safe production methods which eliminate the use of harmful substances
  • Oeko-Tex® certified fabric: tested to standards which do not allow the use of chemicals which are known to be harmful to humans and the environment
  • Main properties: Warmth with minimal weight, highly breathable, pill resistant, fast drying, durable, easy care

Polartec Alpha

Polartec Alpha is one of the latest evolutionary steps in synthetic insulation. Based on Polartec’s Thermal Pro High Loft technology platform, it has an open, woven construction which combines warmth with hyper breathability. At the same time it is also extremely compressible and provides warmth without the same level of weight or bulk as traditional insulation fabrics.

Alpha is designed primarily for garments destined to be highly efficient insulation layers for use with a shell in stop-and-go activities where weight and space are limited. When utilised in garments that are worn alone, it delivers exceptional breathability and a quick dry time for a remarkably broad comfort range. Alpha insulation is ideal for fast-paced outdoor activities like backcountry skiing, mountaineering and ice climbing.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 100% polyester high loft insulation
  • Bluesign® certified fabric: manufactured to strict environmental standards using safe production methods which eliminate the use of harmful substances

MAIN PROPERTIES

  • Provides warmth without the weight and bulk of traditional insulation fabrics
  • Wind resistant, Breathable to provide comfort in all activities: does not restrict the movement of moisture vapour
  • Lightens your load and compresses to take up less space in your pack than standard fleece fabrics
  • Dries quickly via high loft fibres in a low density knit to minimise heat loss
  • Versatile; appropriate for a broad range of activities, durable, machine washable

Polartec NeoShell

Polartec NeoShell is an engineering breakthrough for waterproof breathable fabric technologies. It combines the superior breathability, ventilation and stretch of a softshell with the waterproof performance of a hard shell, delivering the best of both worlds. Combining protection from wet weather and unprecedented breathability through dynamic air exchange, NeoShell dramatically improves the environment inside garment as well as delivering effective weather protection from the outside, keeping you dry and comfortable.

NeoShell is ideal for high exertion activities where the primary need is for hyper breathability and weather protection. Blurring the line between ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ shell, it can be worn comfortably whether ice climbing, ski-mountaineering or on fast paced non-stop multi day mountain missions.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Waterproof (hydrostatic head): 10,000mm
  • Air permeability: Max 1CFM
  • Spray rating: 80/20
  • Denier: 50D x 50D
  • Windproof: Blocks 99% of wind
  • Hydrophobic and microporous PU membrane with a tightly controlled pore size to enhance breathability and air flow
  • Durable, More supple and with a softer, quieter handle than most waterproof fabrics

Polartec Power Shield

Polartec Power Shield is a remarkable single layer fabric that offers extended breathability, exceptional abrasion resistance and stretch to enhance your outdoor experience. Developed to bring greater strength and versatility to the softshell fabric category, Power Shield is a dense knit multi component fabric that successfully balances warmth, weather resistance and breathability. It provides adaptable protection and sets a new industry standard for performance fabrics.

Power Shield’s single layer construction is designed to replace traditional fleece and shell softshell systems, reducing the weight and number of layers needed to insulate and protect. It is able to block 98% of the wind, is less noisy than hard shell fabrics and is finished with a durable water repellency.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Air permeability: Max 13CFM
  • Spray rating: 80/20
  • Denier: 70D x 70D
  • Windproof: Blocks 98% of the wind, preventing wind chill, but allowing enough air circulation to keep you from overheating
  • Oeko-Tex® certified fabric: tested to standards which do not allow the use of chemicals which are known to be harmful to humans and the environment
  • PU laminate for cold conditions
  • Brushed inner face to wick moisture away from the skin

Polartec Power Shield Pro

Polartec Power Shield Pro takes Polartec Power Shield to a new level. It adds water resistance and air permeability to already exceptional abrasion resistance, extended breathability and stretch properties.

Featuring a smooth, durable outer face with a brushed inner face for a high warmth to weight ratio, it blocks 99% of wind, whilst still allowing enough air flor to circulate for enhanced vapour transmission giving superb breathability.

Waterproof to a minimum of 5,000mm hydrostatic head, Polartec Power Shield Pro is ideal for use in active pursuits where stopping to relayer is simply not an option. For example, ice climbing, backcountry skiing and fast mountain missions.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 298g/m² 59% polyester, 21% nylon, 20% polyurethane
  • Laminate: Advanced PU laminate for enhanced wind and water resistance
  • Windproof: Blocks 99% of wind, allowing enough air flow to circulate for enhanced vapour transmission giving excellent breathability
  • Oeko-Tex® certified fabric: tested to standards which do not allow the use of chemicals which are known to be harmful to humans and the environment
  • Waterproof (hydrostatic head): 5,000mm
  • Air permeability: Max 3CFM
  • Spray rating: 80/20
  • Inner face: Brushed inner face to wick moisture away from the skin
  • Main properties: Comfortable stretch, durable, easy care

Polartec Thermal Pro

Polartec Thermal Pro was developed to bring greater style and performance functionality to synthetic fleece technologies. With less bulk and weight than traditional fleece and other insulating fabrics, it combines unique textures with overall efficiency.

Benefiting from a high warmth to weight ratio through the use of air pockets to trap and retain heat, Polartec Thermal is highly breathable, durable and quick drying.

It is ideal for cold weather pursuits, either alone as an outer layer or within a layering system. Wear it mountaineering, when ice climbing or on cold weather mountain treks or treks.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 100% polyester outer face, velour inner face
  • Provides warmth without the weight and bulk of traditional insulating fabrics
  • Bluesign® certified fabric: manufactured to strict environmental standards using safe production methods which eliminate the use of harmful substances
  • Oeko-Tex® certified fabric: tested to standards which do not allow the use of chemicals which are known to be harmful to humans and the environment
  • Highly breathable (does not restrict the movement of moisture vapour)
  • Quick drying to minimise heat loss, durable, easy care

Polartec High Loft

With the highest warmth to weight ratio and of any Polartec fabric, Polartec High Loft takes insulation to a whole new level. Compressible and breathable, its technical prowess is second to none, allowing it to achieve the utmost versatility and performance under extreme conditions.

An open-mesh stitch promotes compressibility, increases airflow and minimises weight. Low density, high loft pile face and back minimises weight but increases warmth and compressibility. The fabric maintains its loft wear after wear for durable warmth.

It is a highly efficient insulation layer for use with a shell in stop-and-go activities where weight and space are limited. When worn alone, it benefits from exceptional breathability and a quick dry time for a remarkably broad comfort range. Polartec High Loft excels when used in layering systems in activities like mountaineering, back country skiing and ice climbing.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 308g/m² 100% polyester high loft
  • Main properties: Traps huge air volume for effective insulation – highest warmth to weight ratio of any Polartec fabric
  • Bluesign® certified fabric: manufactured to strict environmental standards using safe production methods which eliminate the use of harmful substances
  • Oeko-Tex® certified fabric: tested to standards which do not allow the use of chemicals which are known to be harmful to humans and the environment
  • Highly compressible: takes up less space in a pack than standard fleece fabric/p>
  • Highly breathable to provide comfort in all activities: does not restrict the movement of moisture vapour
  • Fast drying to minimise heat loss, easy care

Polartec Micro Series

Lightweight yet thermally efficient, Polartec Micro Series is super soft next to the skin. Its 100% polyester construction allows for the creation of air pockets, providing effective warmth whether worn alone or as part of a layering system.

Resistant to pilling, Polartec Micro Series is durable and versatile enough to cope with robust use, be it scrambling, trekking or mountaineering.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 203g/m² 100% polyester knit, double velour chamois dobby solid
  • Main properties: Warmth with minimal weight
  • Bluesign® certified fabric: manufactured to strict environmental standards using safe production methods which eliminate the use of harmful substances
  • Oeko-Tex® certified fabric: tested to standards which do not allow the use of chemicals which are known to be harmful to humans and the environment
  • Highly breathable and quick drying, Super soft next to skin feel
  • Pill resistant, durable, easy care

Polartec Power Stretch

With a focus on providing resilient 4-way body-hugging stretch, Polartec Power Stretch will keep you dry when you sweat and provide warmth without weight. With a soft inner face, it offers next to skin comfort. Its high wicking ability works through three complementary mechanisms:

Polartec Power Stretch is highly breathable and does not restrict the movement of moisture vapour

Drawing off sweat from the skin to the inner fabric surface, capillary moisture movement wicks sweat through to the outer fabric face where it spreads rapidly for evaporation

The outer face of Polartec Power Stretch enables sweat to spread to many times its original surface area, meaning it can dry at least 2 x faster than cotton

Polartec Power Stretch is ideal for high sweat activities, where maximum freedom of movement and breathability are required.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 231g/m² 88% polyester, 12% spandex plain knit
  • Wicking: Capillary action moisture movement away from the skin
  • Bluesign® certified fabric: manufactured to strict environmental standards using safe production methods which eliminate the use of harmful substances
  • Oeko-Tex® certified fabric: tested to standards which do not allow the use of chemicals which are known to be harmful to humans and the environment
  • Main properties: Body-hugging 4-way stretch and recovery provides unrestricted freedom of movement
  • Highly breathable to provide comfort in all activities; does not restrict the movement of moisture vapour
  • Easy care

Polartec Power Grid

Designed primarily to keep your skin dry and comfortable when you sweat. Polartec Power Grid uses a bi-component knit construction featuring different yarns on either side of the fabric. This creates two faces:

One that is optimised for moisture management and movement

One that is optimised for quick drying

Three complementary mechanisms work together to keep sweat away from your skin:

Polartec Power Grid is highly breathable and does not restrict the movement of moisture vapour

Drawing off sweat from the skin to the inner fabric surface, capillary moisture movement wicks sweat through to the outer fabric face where it spreads rapidly for evaporation. Polartec Power Grid moves at least 30% more moisture away from the skin than single component fabrics

The outer face of Polartec Power Grid enables sweat to spread to many times its original surface area, meaning it can dry at least 2 x faster than cotton

Its grid construction is created by raised fabric pillars on the inner face. These create touch points for moisture management and movement. The open channels between these pillars ensure that the fabric delivers the highest levels of breathability, compression and the highest warmth per fabric weight.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 125g/m² 91% polyester, 9% spandex with jersey grid back
  • Recycled content: 77% recycled content
  • Bluesign® certified fabric: manufactured to strict environmental standards using safe production methods which eliminate the use of harmful substances
  • Oeko-Tex® certified fabric: tested to standards which do not allow the use of chemicals which are known to be harmful to humans and the environment
  • Odour resistance: Silver Ion odour resistance
  • Unique bi-component knit construction which wicks moisture away from the skin
  • Main properties: Superior wicking action
  • Grid channels reduce weight and increase warmth
  • Fast drying, highly breathable, lightweight, easy care

Polartec Power Stretch Pro

Polartec Power Stretch Pro offers the same resilient 4-way body-hugging stretch and wicking properties as Polartec Power Stretch, but with extended durability and abrasion resistance.

A proprietary construction is employed in the production of Polartec Power Stretch Pro to create two unique surfaces – an abrasion resistant durable nylon outer face and a soft polyester inner for wicking.

Excellent for unpredictable weather conditions.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • Composition: 241g/m² 53% polyester, 38% nylon, 9% spandex
  • Outer face fabric: Extended durability and abrasion resistance through a tough nylon outer face
  • Bluesign® certified fabric: manufactured to strict environmental standards using safe production methods which eliminate the use of harmful substances
  • Oeko-Tex® certified fabric: tested to standards which do not allow the use of chemicals which are known to be harmful to humans and the environment
  • Inner face fabric: Brushed inner face for comfort against the skin
  • Main properties: Body-hugging 4-way stretch and recovery provides unrestricted freedom of movement

Allied Feather & Down

Allied Feather & Down was founded with a single facility in 1987 in Vernon, CA. It specialises in the manufacture of the highest quality down and feather product. A family-run operation, its constant focus on quality, innovation and sustainable, environmental, ethical policies ensures that it remains the market leader in its field.

Strong growth in the late 1990s / early 2000s enabled Allied to expand to five facilities in the USA and China. Today, Allied is the world leader in the manufacture of the highest quality downs and their blends. Providing the down fill of choice for top-tier brands in the outdoor industry, Allied also plays an active role in setting global industry standards for down:

  • Founding member of the International Alliance for the Pro Down Initiative
  • Member of the International Down and Feather Bureau (IDFB)
  • Products Bluesign® approved
  • Founding member of the Responsible Down Standard (RDS) initiative
  • Demonstrable product transparency through SourceTRACK™ and Track My Down
  • Innovation in sustainability and technology has allowed Allied to offer the highest quality, completely sustainable and allergy-free down insulation.

AQUAPRO Dynamic

A unique bi-component fabric with hyper four way stretch

AQUAPRO Dynamic is a bi-component waterproof laminate fabric with a hydrophobic and hydrophilic membrane; under normal use it breathes through hydrophobic transpiration but during high extertion and upon reaching a critical level of internal humidity is has an extra turbo boost of hydrophilic breathability that draws vapour perspiration to the outside of the garment.

Technical Specification

  • 115g/m2 100% Polyester microfiber knit with microporous bi-component laminate.
  • Waterproof to a minimum of 10,000mm hydrostatic head and with a hydrophilic MVTR of 6,500g/m2/24 hrs (JIS L 1099 A-1).
  • Excellent four way stretch properties for comfort during dynamic movement.

7D Ultra

A unique and supremely lightweight windproof fabric. Using extremely fine 7 Denier nylon yarns which are tightly woven together, with a ripstop added for durability.

The fabric is lightweight, windproof, packable and acts as a protective outer layer in a garment layering system. A DWR means it will bead light rain.

Weighing 22 grams per square metre, this is one of the lightest windproof fabrics in the world.

Cuben Fiber

Main Properties

  • Incomparable weight to strength ratio
  • Unique look and performance 100%
  • waterproof

Construction

  • Non-woven laminate. ‘Mesh’ of Dyneema yarns are laminated between specially constructed films
  • Dyneema yarns have tensile strength that is stronger than steel
  • Specially designed coating to improve abrasion resistance

Reason for use

  • Selected as it’s a unique,special fabric
  • Unrivalled strength to weight ratio

Raptor UTL

Main properties:

  • Tough, strong abrasion resistant fabric
  • 100% Nylon with a high thread count

Construction:

  • Nylon 500D Kodra
  • 345g/m2
  • Tight weave Over 1000mm hydrostatic head

Reason for use:

  • Most of our climbing packs use this on our base panels as it has excellent abrasion resistance

Raptor TL

Main properties:

  • Excellent strength to weight ratio

Construction:

  • Nylon 210D
  • Dobby pattern provides attractive look
  • 260g/m2
  • Over 1000mm hydrostatic head

Reason for use:

  • One of our most used fabrics
  • This fabric is the a perfect example of low weight without compromising the strength of the fabric

TECHNICAL

  • 100% nylon air texturised microfilament
  • Abrasion resistance 50,000+ at 12,5k PA
  • DWR finish with a grade 5 rating
  • Very lightweight and tough
  • Tensile strength twice its weight

Chameleon

A family of four lightweight, breathable and versatile fabrics

The Chameleon family has four fabrics which are very lightweight and focused around versatility when reaching and stretching. Chameleon Kinetic is a lightweight fabric with a four way stretch for dynamic movement, the Chameleon Lite is windproof and breathable, Chameleon 3 used on the new Dyno Stretch Jacket dries fast and has a fourway stretch for superb hand movement and Chameleon 4 is waterproof, windproof and breathable.

Chameleon Kinetic

  • Chameleon Kinetic is a very lightweight non membrane softshell, which means its characteristics are wind resistant whilst still being breathable.
  • It offers a good balance of abrasion resistance vs lightweight. Danier gradient fabric construction means the fabric wicks away moisture very well.
  • A DWR means it will bead light rain, it is also very fast drying.

Chameleon Lite

  • A lightweight membrane softshell fabric which itself is waterproof to a 10,000mm hydrostatic head.
  • The garment itself is not seam taped so therefore not classed as fully waterproof. The membrane is breathable.
  • Like other softshells and unlike hard shells, this fabric is rustle free and has a comfortable knitted inner face which is soft and wicking next to the skin.
  • A DWR means it will bead light rain, it is also very fast drying.

Chameleon 3

Chameleon 3 is a lightweight non membrane softshell, which means its characteristics are wind resistant whilst still being breathable.

It offers a good balance of abrasion resistance vs lightweight. Danier gradient fabric construction means the fabric wicks away moisture very well.

A DWR means it will bead light rain, it is also very fast drying.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • 174/m2 89% Polyester, 11% Spandex duplex weave
  • Unique denier gradient structure creates permanent capillary action where moisturealways travels to the outer surface
  • DWR finish with a grade 5 rating
  • Air permeability 13.0cc max
  • Abrasion resistance 20,000+ at 12.5k PA
  • Excellent wicking properties, fast drying and with a four way stretch for dynamic body movement

Chameleon 4

CA more durable and winter weight membrane softshell which itself is waterproof to a 10,000mm hydrostatic head.

The garment itself is not seam taped so therefore not classed as fully waterproof. The membrane is breathable.

Like other softshells and unlike hard shells, this fabric is rustle free and has a comfortable and warm mid-loft textured knitted inner face which is soft and wicking next to the skin.

A DWR means it will bead light rain.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

  • 269g/m2 86% nylon, 14% spandex stretch face with a 100% Polyester brushed inner face
  • Waterproof to a minimum of 10,000mm hydrostatic head with a minimum MVTR of 10,000g/m2/24hrs
  • Capillary action moisture movement away from the skin
  • DWR with spray rating 80 / 10 (AATCC 22)

DP VX-21

Main Properties

  • Great abrasion resistance
  • Exceptional tensile strength
  • Light for its strength and toughness

Construction

  • 3 layer laminate
  • Nylon 420D face fabric
  • Diamond grid of X-Ply of Black Polyester yarns for tensile strength
  • Polyester backing fabric 211g/m2 Over 1000mm hydrostatic head

Reason for use

  • Used on Ultra Alpine 38+5 as its great abrasion properties resist scraping up against rock surfaces. Its excellent tensile strength is perfect for carrying heavy loads whilst resisting tears and snags
  • Its low weight lends itself to this type of minimalist product Unique look


Sarah Atkinson

Sarah Atkinson

Writer and expert