Textile Insight

IN THE MARKET | OR + SNOW SHOW PREVIEW Layers of Innovation 8 • Textile Insight ~ January/February 2018 textileinsight.com Performance Fabrics Pair Well with Smart Styling for Fall 2018 Season. ith arctic-like temperatures and a snow cyclone ushering in the New Year, now seems an ideal time for makers of cold-weather garments and accessories to deliver items that allow outdoor enthusiasts to beat Mother Nature at her own game. The latest looks appear up to the challenge with designs that incorporate performance and fit for increased warmth against the ele- ments while still being comfortable and stylish. In what might be considered "high-tech hybrids," new collections blur the lines of function and fashion with good looking gear that sports technical properties of moisture management, stretch, anti-microbial attributes and breath- ability all wrapped in lightweight warmth that resists rain, wind and snow. These functional features are strong, yet often presented subtly. The bells and whistles are there, but with silhouettes shaped for crossover versatility and easy on the eye color palettes, today's designs don't nec- essarily scream "for the mountain only." The use of eco-conscious materials continues. No longer are recycled and sustainable textiles seen as lesser qual- ity for performance products; indeed, today's consumer is increasingly on the look out for items that promote environmental responsibility. Nau and Patagonia achieve this modern mix of eco- performance in their latest offerings. The new Nau Reykjavik Down Jacket, for example, repels wind, rain and snow thanks to fully sealed seams and a PFC-free water-repellent finish. It's strategically crafted of 100 percent recycled materials including the quilted lining with 700-fill power down insulation. Also new for F/W '18 is the ultra-light Nau Synfill Reversible Shirt Jacket. The recycled polyester side offers PFC-free water and wind resistance while the brushed cotton/ wool side is a more casual look. In addition, a light layer of recycled insulation holds in the heat. Patagonia, too, pushes the eco envelope with a new col- lection of Fair Trade Fleece. For Fall 18 all Patagonia Better Sweater and men's and women's Synchilla Snap-T styles are Fair Trade certified sewn. According to the company, every purchase sends money back the factory workers. For Fall 18, classic ski brands are re-defining winter warmth with a variety of new styles. Obermeyer is introducing its first-ever fall heritage collection, inclusive of lifestyle items --inspired by its 70-history – that expand the brand's range beyond outerwear. Items include a down jacket, pullover fleece, vests, and accessories like snapback hats. Like Obermeyer, the Turtle Fur Fall 18 collection combines tried and true styles with on trend fabrications. The Stria Longtail Totally Tubular product incorporates Polartec Thermal Pro for lightweight, moisture wicking in a fresh look. The Comfort Shell Stria fabric features a cationic dye effect pattern, matching the Polartec Thermal Pro fleece base for extra warmth around the neck in diverse climates. Next Generation Knits Craft is debuting a new technology called Fuseknit, which will be used throughout the company's entire F/W 18 line. According to the company, Fuseknit is a 100 percent poly- ester fiber–30 percent recycled--that is knit to encompass body-mapping while also eliminating seams. The result is seamless ventilation with a moisture-transfer fabric that offers stretch for active end-use. Polarmax also ups the comfort factor in its new women's Super Midweight Stretch base layer top and bottom. The fabric features enhanced 4-way stretch and recovery, with a smooth face for easy layering and lightly brushed inside for warmth and comfort. Acclimate Dry, the Polarmax proprietary technology, provides moisture management with quick wicking and drying and is treated with AG47 anti-odor/microbials for the life of the garment. Stretch also plays a role in socks this season. For example, gradual light compression has officially made its way into the Darn Tough hike collection called Trail Legs. According to the Vermont knitter, the new Trail Legs offer the same level of comfort, fit and durability that Darn Tough is known for, but now with the added recovery benefits of compression. Trail Legs is a result of a Darn Tough team member's experience hiking the AT last year. The company explains that when shin splints kicked in, forcing the hiker off the trail for a few days of recovery, the team shipped a pair of the Vertex compressions socks, which he wore and continued his hike northward – not having to stop again. O W Craft Fuseknit technology in women's top. Darn Tough Trail Legs sock with gradual compression. Nau Synfill Reversible Shirt Jacket.

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