WINDSTOPPER

Windstopper
• Windstopper is a fabric laminate made by W.L. Gore &
Associates.
• It is similar to Gore-Tex, except that it is only windproof and
breathable, not waterproof.
• One of the most common applications is a lamination with
Polar fleece.
• Because they are not waterproof, they are more breathable
than traditional Gore-Tex clothing.
• However, because they are based on a solid laminate layer,
they remain inherently less breathable than other "softshell"
fabrics which provide such as those made by Polartech or
Schoeller, which do not use laminates.
• Like most softshell fabrics, Windstopper products are
typically coated with DWR (Durable Water Repellency), which
provides them with a modest degree of water resistance.
• The lack of wind resistance is one of the principal
drawbacks of that fabric.
• Windstopper garments are suited to high-output
aerobic activities such as running, cycling or
cross-country skiing.
• They will wet through in heavy rainfall but may
be worn comfortably in light drizzle.
• WindStopper is highly breathable and totally
stops chilly winds, maintaining a comfortable
microclimate next to the body.
 Advantages
• Warm
• efficient insulation
• Lightweight
• low-bulk
• Windproof
POLAR FLEECE
 Polar Fleece
• Fleece is made by first twisting fibres into yarns that
are then knitted into a fabric.
• The fabric is then brushed vigorously to loosen some of
the fibers to create a fuzzy (fleece) surface that is then
sheared and finished.
• Polar fleece is usually referred to simply as "fleece," is a
soft napped insulating synthetic wool fabric made from
PET or other synthetic fibers.
• Meant to mimic and in some ways surpass wool.
• Fleece has some of wool's finest qualities but weighs a
fraction of the lightest available woolens.
• Fleece is used in:
– casual jackets
– hats
– Sweaters
– jogging bottoms/sweatpants
– gym clothes
– hoodies
– inexpensive throw blankets
– high-performance outdoor clothing
• Advantages of fleece are that it is:
– Soft and comfortable to wear.
– Very warm and provides warmth without weighing a lot.
– Hydrophobic, holding less than 1% of its weight in water
when fully soaked and simultaneously highly breathable.
This makes it a good choice for physical activities where
sweating is likely to occur.
– Dries very quickly and retains much of its insulation
capability even when it is wet, because of its hydrophobic
properties.
– Can be considered environmentally friendly as it can be
made from recycled plastic PET bottles.
– Machine washable and dries quickly.
– A good alternative for those who are allergic or sensitive
to wool.
– Ideal outerwear fabric because it actively wicks moisture
away from the body.
 Disadvantages
• Is flammable.
• Is made from a non-renewable natural resource:
petroleum.
• The fabric doesn't absorb moisture as well as
natural fiber fabrics such as cotton and wool
• It tends to generate very high static electricity
charges.
• Not windproof
• Can be damaged by high-temperature washing, or
by tumble drying and ironing.
• Lower-quality grades are susceptible to pilling
and to early wear and tear.