Polartec EcoEngineering Sustainable textile innovation

By Silvia Galliani

Polartec has always been a leading producer of innovative and sustainable textile solutions and a pioneer in the use of recycled materials aiming to reduce its environmental footprint.

The invention of modern synthetic fleece dates back to 1981, an introduction in the the market that completely changed the way we dress in cold weather and that saw Polartec named one of the “100 greatest inventions of the 20th century” by the prestigious American weekly, Time Magazine.
Since then, the R&D team has continued to develop cutting-edge technologies capable of improving sportswear performance in all weather conditions.
In 1993, Polartec decided to make the most out of recycled materials to protect the environment recycling, up to date, more than 1.3 billion plastic bottles into performing yarn.
It is incredible to think that this number of bottles could wrap around the world almost seven times, reach halfway to the moon or occupy four times the space required by the Colosseum. One billion, three hundred thousand plastic bottles can cover these spaces or produce 35 million fleece jackets, enough to outfit the entire population of Canada.
Polartec’s mission regarding sustainability is not only about making products from recycled and recyclable materials, but it starts at source with stricter standards than those stipulated by law for the filtration of production process water and the reduction of waste and pollutant emissions in place since the early 2000s.
In September 2018 Polartec took part in Premiere Vision Paris, launching new collaborations with leading urban and lifestyle brands such as Diadora, Champion and Moncler.
Thanks to the iconic classic collection 100, 200, 300 and the development of new textures and fabrics focused on this market, Polartec has noticed a big growth concerning the request of technical fabrics by fashion and design sectors.
The iconic fleece is still used to make fashionable clothing and accessories such as shoes, gloves and caps because it is synonymous with high quality and premium performance, able to offer a truly versatile and innovative range featuring next-to- skin, thermal insulation and weather protection fabrics.