This week, Altexa srl and GHS Holdings announced the launch of the HDry brand in North America. HDry is an advanced technology for waterproofing outdoor products through direct (3D) lamination of a waterproof/breathable membrane, said the companies.
HDry’s entrance into the North American initially offers another option for brands looking for a partner in the creation of high-performance, waterproof technology for gloves, footwear and packs, said the companies.
HDry strengthens the technological development that Altexa founders initiated in 2006 when they first created the OutDry technology and brand. HDry waterproof breathable membrane is directly applied to the inner side of the outermost layer by a patented 3D lamination process that is seamless and tapeless. The direct lamination of the membrane eliminates drawbacks associated with other “free-hanging” glove and shoe inserts on the market, said Altexa, and offers a higher performance solution that cannot be matched by traditional waterproof systems.
“Having worked with apex brands like Patagonia, Black Diamond and Mountain Hardwear on design and development for technical wear for the better part of 40 years, I know full well the advanced performance characteristics that this 3D seamless bonding technology offers for brands looking for a premium waterproof and breathable solution,” said Gary Schloss, CEO of GHS Holdings, which is spearheading HDry North America. “I look forward to also working with footwear and backpack brands to show how HDry can take their products to the next level.”
“The collaboration with Gary Schloss to launch HDry technology and brand in North America is quite natural as, in 2008, he was one of the first to believe and invest in the high potential of the direct membrane lamination technology that we had just developed at the time,” said Matteo Morlacchi, CEO and founder Altexa srl, owners of HDry technology. “Considering his experience and reputation in the glove industry, this was ideal support. With the same technology now further refined and improved, we look forward to seeing strong growth in the U.S. and Canadian market.”
The HDry compound is made by a polyurethane ester-based waterproof/breathable membrane combined with thin polyester knit. Along with the advantahes of material saving and lightness, HDry is PTFE-free, and no perfluorinated compounds (PFCs, PFOS, PFOA etc.) are used in its production. HDry does not contain any substance of the REACH – ECHA list.
The “HDry” brand derives from the abbreviation of the chemical name for water (H2O), coupled with the word “Dry,” and signifies the affinity between this technology and water.
