Smarter thermal insulation
Be it in natural down or in synthetic fillers, a striking array of novel ingredients is being put to new uses to enhance the insulating properties of cold-weather clothing. Graphene, despite being a conductive material, is fast becoming a new standard in high performance gear, in combination with down or polyester padding. At the other end of the spectrum, Pangaia, an eco-minded lifestyle brand has chosen a kapok and down blend developed by Minardi Piume that it creatively markets as FlowerDown. The new developments often pair increased thermal efficiency with a reduced environmental footprint to respond to the double demand for performance and sustainability. Molina has chosen a biobased graphene material and Allied Feather and Down infuses its quick drying down with gold particles that are recycled from used electronics. Imbotex has found that its camel hair padding made from fabric offcuts offers a higher level of thermal protection than an equivalent made from virgin fibres. These are just a few of the many new features and functions driving innovation in insulation.
