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High Tech Fabrics

© Peggy Hoehne

In the last few years technology has brought us a number of new fabrics. We find fabrics now designed to resist bacteria, keep you cool, warm, or dry. Some fabrics will resist bullets and abrasion; others will block ultra-violet rays, repel insects, or just make you look better. There are new stretch fabrics that allow you more comfort and fabrics that will allow you to run faster. Many of these are showing up as part of the apparels name, such as, Polartec, CoolMax, Ballistic Nylon, Biofresh, and Buzz Off.

Polartec, made by Malden Mills is the original warm winter fleece used in jackets, gloves, linings, and dozens of other wintertime products. There are many companies making material that looks the same on the surface, but still only real Polartec will provide the lightweight warmth, be breathable, durable and comfortable as we have come to expect from Polarfleece. Check out the Malden Mills Web site to see all of the new technologies they are introducing.

Polartec fabric is machine washable, durable and the color will not fade.

CoolMax pulls, or "wicks", moisture away from your skin to the outer layer of the fabric. You will see it used in T-shirts, sports wear, socks, and a variety of medical wraps, braces, and pads. It helps you to stay dry and comfortable. CoolMax fabric is also breathable and easy to care for.

Most garments made with Coolmax fabrics are machine washable and dryable. You may not even need to use the dryer, as the CoolMax garments are so fast drying. Fabric softeners and chlorine bleach should not be used. Always read the care label inside each garment.

Ballistic Nylon was originally developed for bullet-resistant vests and military flak jackets. Today you will find it used in soft side luggage, attaches, and other bags. It is a high-strength, puncture and tear resistant, superior abrasion resistance and takes dye evenly.

Biofresh Antibacterial fiber for activewear and hosiery. It is the only antibacterial acrylic fiber manufactured in the United States. Triclosan antibacterial compound is the active ingredient which inhibits the growth of a broad spectrum of bacteria, fungi and yeast. These properties will not wash out during laundering, and will continue to inhibit the growth of bacteria.

Nearly all of them, those treated with finishes, designed to wick away moisture, to keep you dry and comfortable, including the microfibers, should not have fabric softeners used on them.