K2 Apparel announced a partnership with eVent fabrics as the longstanding wintersports brand prepares its official launch into apparel for Winter 2017-18. K2 Apparel will make its worldwide debut at the SIA Snow Show later this January in Denver, Colo.
Vertical Brands, which specializes in apparel brand management, production management, sourcing and design, last November acquired the worldwide license for K2 Sports Apparel. In December, it named industry veteran Bill Post as director for the brand. Post, who previously worked with Nordica, Cocona, Point6, among other outdoor brands, will lead efforts to oversee K2 Sports Apparel design, manufacturing and product sales in North America, South America, Europe, Australia and Asia, with the exception of Korea.
“K2 gives us a phenomenal opportunity to launch this heritage brand and expand our portfolio of premium products,” said Vertical Brands CEO Christopher Neary. “In addition, we have been fortunate to enlist the talents of Bill Post to direct the efforts and ensure that it is properly conceived and targeted in this challenging market.”
The new K2 Apparel products will feature eVent DValpine technology, which eVent calls a versatile solution that balances all-weather protection and high breathability. DValpine is air permeable, waterproof and wind blocking, utilizing eVent’s patented ePTFE Direct Venting moisture managing membrane.
“We found that eVent’s balance of enhanced breathability and superior waterproofness is the ideal combination to ensure that winter athletes stay comfortable in the most demanding conditions,” said Post.
eVent fabrics will be featured in pinnacle products in K2 Apparel’s Freeride collection, which includes three styles each of jackets and pants for men and women. All feature a rugged 3-layer nylon fabric with a water column rating of 20 meters for 100 percent waterproof protection. Breathability, combined with air permeability, measures 26,000 grams/m2/24 hours.
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