American textile manufacturer Polartec has received a 2019 R&D 100 Award for its Power Air technology, said to shed at least 5x less microfibres than modern synthetic fleece fabrics.

Polartec Power Air encapsulates lofted fibres with a multi-layer, continuous yarn fabric construction. Insulation that effectively regulates core body temperature has traditionally been achieved via lofted or high pile knit structures that hold warm air, though Polartec has recognised that any exposed fibre is susceptible to shedding as a function of normal wear.

“By using the efficiency of encapsulated air to shelter lofted fibres, Polartec Power Air will drastically improve how fabrics perform over their lifetime with respect to versatility, comfort and sustainability,” says Gary Smith, Polartec CEO.

The first hoody made from this fabric is already available from Adidas, with Houdini and Mammut, and the US firm insists it will eventually provide shedding reduction to all existing apparel categories including insulation, lightweight next-to-skin and extreme weather protection.

With the R&D Award, Polartec is recognised as an innovator at the forefront of ground breaking solutions which, in this case, provides a solution to mounting fears relating to microfibre pollution in the world’s oceans, a problem worsened when garments are laundered and release loose textile fibres.

“It’s a great honour to receive an R&D 100 Award,” said Steve Layton, President of Polartec. “Power Air is a step forward in reducing the environmental impact of what we make and wear, and it’s also a whole new experience with its distinctive aesthetics and drag-free, lively performance.”

Courtesy: Apparel Views