POLARTEC
Since inventing the original PolarFleece in 1981, Polartec continues to advance the science of fabric by creating problem solving technologies that improve the user experience among the world’s premium outdoor, sport, workwear, and lifestyle products. They are the only company on the market who develops and manufactures comprehensive solutions encompassing base layer, mid layer, and outer layer under one brand, offering a wide range of functionality; including lightweight wicking and cooling, warmth and insulation, breathable weather protection, fire resistance, and enhanced durability.
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COMPANY NEWS
Polartec Celebrates 45 Years of Fleece Innovation & Evolution Forty-five years ago, Polartec created the world’s first synthetic fleece, a lightweight alternative to heavy wool that revolutionized outdoor performance apparel and became a pioneering material breakthrough radically changing the industry. Recognized by Time Magazine in 1998 as one of the 100 Best Inventions of the 20th century, Polartec fleece set a new standard in modern layering systems and today remains a backbone for warmth, breathability, and fast-drying comfort. Since its creation in 1981, Polartec has continuously advanced fleece technology, introducing the first material made from recycled plastic bottles in 1993 and evolving through ground-breaking innovations focused on durability, reduced fiber shedding, and lower-impact material choices. Polartec is proud to celebrate 45 years of synthetic fleece, paying homage to the one material that has continued to evolve and perform – supporting brands, athletes, and new generations of outdoor consumers around the world. For more details on Polartec fleece product launches, brand activations, and material science. visit Polartec.com.
Polartec AirCore™ Harnesses the Power of Air to Defy Performance Limits Polartec is proud to introduce its newest revolutionary products; Polartec® AirCore™, the industry’s first truly air permeable laminate that is 100% free from PFAS-based chemistries and engineered to keep you dry from the inside out. With an industry-leading Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) of over 25,000 g/m²/24 hours* and air permeability ranging from 0.4 to 1 CFM**, Polartec® AirCore™ provides unmatched performance during high-intensity activities while repelling water from the outside***. Furthermore, the lightweight material and superior stretch enables unrestricted movement, making Polartec® AirCore™ an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts, explorers, and anyone on the move.
At Polartec, Beyond Begins Today… since 1993 Since inventing the first fleece crafted from recycled plastic water bottles more than three decades ago, Polartec has upheld its unwavering pledge to protect the environment. Polartec consistently goes above and beyond to make the goal of zero waste a reality – from using 100% recycled and plant-based materials, to delivering certified waste reductions and innovative technologies that reduce the impact of its activities. Now, with its new Beyond Begins Today initiative, Polartec aims to raise awareness around the important global themes of sustainability, diversity and positive change. Polartec’s commitment to sustainable solutions goes beyond the integration of increasingly advanced manufacturing methods or the ongoing exploration of novel fibers, and continues investments in sustainable materials development. This commitment extends to the fundamental belief that, if we change behaviors, we can change the narrative. For our Planet. For our People. For our Products. Change starts with each of us. Our promise, therefore, is that every one of our product launches in 2024 will either reduce our impact on the planet, endure the test of time, or contribute to circularity processes.
Watch Chapter 1: Planet Watch Chapter 2: People Watch Chapter 3: Product
Polartec Alpha: 14 Year of Game-Changing Active Insulation
The Alpha Rewind campaign retraces the material’s remarkable journey, from when it was first commissioned to ensure dynamic warmth in start-stop conditions to becoming one of the most influential fabrics in outdoor and sports apparel design. Celebrating the material that has redefined performance with its quick-drying, durable, ultralight, and multifunctional properties, this campaign invites the world to rediscover the original active insulation that rewrote the rules.
Contrary to traditional insulation, which is prone to trapping heat and humidity, Polartec Alpha delivers dynamic temperature regulation, keeping heat in when you need it and letting it out when you don’t. Its lofted fibers and mesh core create an ultra-breathable structure that actively resists moisture, dries rapidly, and delivers warmth without the weight. Available in a wide range of versions and varieties, Polartec Alpha offers the perfect balance of performance, versatility and aesthetic appeal for highly technical outdoor gear and moisture-wicking midlayers for cutting-edge streetwear and technical fashion.
2026 Products in Market using Polartec Alpha: Big Agnes Alpha Direct Fleece Sleeping Bag Liner, Ornot Alpha Sweater, Farpoint Alpha Crewneck, Burgeon Alpha Hoodie, Alpine Fit Fastpacker Fleece.