Last year Polartec Eco-Engineering set a goal for sustainable textiles that included the creation of the world’s first fully recycled and biodegradable fleece, other knits, insulation fills and breathable waterproof fabrics.
In a step closer to their ultimate goal Polartec will launch lightweight Power Air at this year’s Winter ISPO.
Polartec, the premium provider of innovative and sustainable textile solutions launched Power Air in 2018, a fabric that uses a construction technique that enables it to shed at least five times fewer microfibres than other premium fleece fabrics.
In 2020, it will go one step further and use a lightweight version that is made from one yarn, is fully recyclable and has a higher PCR content. Plastic microfibres are migrating into our oceans, being consumed by plankton and travelling up the food chain.
Steve Layton, the new President of Polartec, said: “Polartec’s Power Air lightweight version is, hands down, one of the best products we have ever had – and Polartec has some incredibly cool technologies. When you try lightweight Power Air it just checks every single box you can think of with the fully recyclable element mixed with the high performance and aesthetics.”
Scientists still don’t know the full consequences of this on human health but it’s a growing concern, so much so that in 2018 microbeads were banned from health products.
Polartec is addressing this problem on an ongoing basis. One of its projects has involved working with Swedish outdoor brand Houdini, to bring the first product made with lightweight Power Air to market in the Houdini Mono Air Houdi. Comprising 73 per cent recycled plastic content, the fabric works by encapsulating air-trapping fibres – think bubble wrap – that results in an end product that is warm, comfortable and breathable yet sheds at least five times fewer microfibres when compared to other premium, mid-layer fabrics.
In addition to its PCR content, the 100 per cent Polyester fabric is also fully recyclable. Houdini’s Mono Air Houdi is lightweight, warm and can be worn year-round. Named “Mono” because of the fabric’s one-yarn construction, its low-friction surface makes it perfect for layering in the winter whilst its breathability makes it a great go-to piece during a chilly summer evening. Houdini’s Mono Air Houdi has been inspired by the fit of the iconic Houdini Power Houdi and features a stretchy slim fit, snug high collar hood and extended sleeves with thumb loops. Houdini will be launching the Mono Air Houdi at this year’s Winter ISPO and then to market on its website immediately after the trade show.
