PrimaLoft Inc.,a leader in advanced material technology, has launched a new version of its best-selling down alternative ,PrimaLoft Insulation ThermoPlume. The synthetic fill is made entirely out of post-consumer recycled materials.
Four years after the introduction of the first blowable synthetic insulation, the technology has built a reputation in the outdoor apparel and fashion markets, with more than 70 brands using the loose-fill microfiber insulation in its product lines for the Fall/Winter ‘21/’22season.
It looks like down, feels like down and delivers comparable thermal performance, but PrimaLoft Insulation ThermoPlume is 100 percent synthetic and completely recycled.
“When we first developed PrimaLoft Insulation ThermoPlume back in 2017, we answered the growing demand from designers, brands, and customers for an ethical alternative to animal product-a purchase criterion that is becoming ever more important. At the same time, we continued to deliver the excellent performance people expect from PrimaLoft products”, said Mike Joyce, president and CEO at PrimaLoft. “To achieve the same level of comfort and warmth in a completely recycled version is a logical next step in our Relentlessly Responsible approach to elevate both sustainability and performance through innovation.”
PrimaLoft Insulation ThermoPlume is manufactured with small, silky fiber plumes that form a loose fill insulation. It mimics the fluidity, hand-feel and aesthetics of down, but also has the proven water-repellent properties of PrimaLoft fibers to provide a soft, compressible thermal output, even in wet conditions.
“Its construction allows it to be blown through traditional down-blowing manufacturing equipment, simplifying the manufacturing process for brands and enabling product designers the freedom to create versatile garments that combine the look and feel of down with the water-resistant performance of a synthetic,” said Vanessa Mason, SVP of Engineering at PrimaLoft. “Moreover, it helps to simplify the supply chain, combat the volatility of down prices and provide peace of mind when it comes to the ethical sourcing of materials.”
The synthetic down alternative has been adopted by outdoor and fashion brands internationally, since its 2017 introduction. Even before the 100 percent recycled iteration, around 40 brands were using PrimaLoft Insulation ThermoPlume in their collections.
For the upcoming FW21/22 season, and with the introduction of PrimaLoft Insulation ThermoPlume the number will increase to more than 70, with more than half switching to the recycled version. Brands include 4F, CMP, Ecoalf, Ellesse, Fred Perry, Joe Fresh, Lands’ End, La Sportiva, Millet, Montane,Nike, Peuterey, Picture Organic Clothing, Polo Ralph Lauren, Rossignol, Salomon, Timberland and Woolrich.
