#Textiles & Apparel / Garment

2019-12-19

Outlier introduces technical jacket with aerobrane

Schoeller, the global textile solutions manufacturer dedicated to innovation for more than 150 years, today announces that its electrostatic-spun membrane technology aerobrane will be introduced to the marketplace with its brand partner Outlier’s Experiment 200 – Ecstasy in the Rain jacket.

Schoeller’s aerobrane membrane offers optimum protection against wind and weather, along with exceptional breathability and will launch Thursday, December 12, 2019, as a component of Outlier’s new performance rainshell.

In development for 4 years and introduced to brand partners in late 2018, the Schoeller aerobrane membrane’s unique structure consists of an ultra-fine, hydrophilic polyurethane fiber composite that differs from other film-based membranes and offers a softer feel and beautiful, fluid textile characteristics.

"The electrostatic spun membrane technology is amazing because it allows for genuinely air permeable yet extremely water-resistant membranes that just couldn’t be made previously,” said Abe Burmeister, Outlier cofounder. “The air permeability is really what makes the difference for us. It’s like opening the window on a rain shell. It allows for air to circulate around the body as you move, even when you are fully sealed off from the rain. It just makes for a far more comfortable rain jacket."

To produce an electrostatic spun membrane, a large number of ultra-light, microscopic fibers are placed closely on top of each other, forming a clustered but firmly connected structure that can only be detected with the highest microscope technology, e.g., the scanning tunneling microscope. The membrane’s fibrous structure provides exceptional breathability while also allowing for ventilation. aerobrane features water-repellent qualities, as water droplets on the exterior are larger than the spaces between the fibrous structures; however, the fiber structures create an effective barrier against wind.

“At Schoeller, we are happiest when pushing the boundaries of innovation, and we are proud to stand by our partners at Outlier as they introduce our aerobrane technology,” said Stephen Kerns, president of Schoeller Textil USA. “Extreme breathability along with water and wind protection is something we have continued to strive for for many years. We continue to be grateful of and inspired by our entire team with this development.”

Outlier’s Experiment 200 – Ecstasy in the Rain jacket will only be available for a limited time and features a lightweight and elegant, 4-way stretch Schoeller woven that is laminated to the aerobrane membrane. It offers a 6000mm water-column rating and light weight at 135gsm, along with .5CFM of air flow.*

*Results per Outlier third-party testing source.

Pets in fashion: functional and sustainable textiles find new market at Intertextile Apparel

China’s pet economy is booming, especially amongst younger generations, and pet apparel – from designer outfits to functional garments – was a RMB 3.5 billion (over USD 500 million) market in 2024, growing more than 20% annually¹. To help exhibitors harness this trend, Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Spring Edition 2026 will launch the Pet Boutique, presenting a range of innovative, sustainable materials that prioritise both functionality and comfort for pets.

VAUDE eliminates PFAS from all products

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are now detectable worldwide – in drinking water, soil and the human body. These so-called “forever chemicals” are considered hazardous to health and potentially carcinogenic, as they do not break down and remain in the environment permanently. Despite these risks, PFAS are still used in a wide range of products. More than 15 years ago, VAUDE made a strategic decision to gradually eliminate PFAS from all product categories.

Sustainable, lightweight, and sound absorbing: Polyester-based front trunk solution for BEVs

As car manufacturers look to further reduce their carbon footprint, Autoneum has developed an innovative front trunk solution for battery electric vehicles (BEVs), made entirely from polyester-based textile. The Ultra-Silent Frunk offers significant weight reduction, improved acoustic and thermal insulation, and uses up to 70 percent recycled material, supporting sustainable and efficient vehicle design. Autoneum, global technology leader in acoustic and thermal management for vehicles, has already received orders for the new frunk from three major OEMs in Asia and Europe to be built in three BEV models. Series production for two BEVs has been underway in China and Germany since last year.

Modern testing methods for raw cotton

The 38th International Cotton Conference Bremen will take place from 25 to 27 March 2026 at the Bremen Parliament. This conference has traditionally stood for in-depth expertise and international exchange. The program will focus on technical innovations, market trends, and regulatory frameworks across the entire value chain – from agriculture to the circular economy. With high-profile speakers, the conference is regarded as the key meeting point for the global cotton industry. Today’s focus: Cotton quality and testing methods.

Rieter responds to higher raw material prices

Global political and economic developments have been leading to rising raw material and energy costs for some time. The textile machinery industry is also affected by this trend. Rieter machines and components consist to a large extent of steel, copper, aluminum and electronics. These materials in particular have seen higher demand and higher prices in recent months.

Stäubli demonstrates how innovation translates into real benefits for weaving mills at SITEX 2026

One of India’s most prominent textile industry events, SITEX 2026, is held from February 21 to 23 in Surat. Committed to empowering Indian weaving mills with state‑of‑the‑art solutions tailored to regional needs, Stäubli will present a selection of solutions designed for performance, reliability, and power efficiency. Through its weaving preparation, cam and dobby shedding solutions and Jacquard technologies, Stäubli highlights its global expertise tailored to the specific needs of the local market.