Kurtka Salewa Ortles hybrid 2 PRL 25392-0911

Wool has been relied upon for years for cold, wet weather due to its ability to insulate when wet. Down has been relied upon for cold dry areas but becomes a liability when wet. Apparently the design goal of PrimaLoft was to produce a fabric providing down-like insulation effectiveness even when wet.

The original patent filed for PrimaLoft insulation, known as "Synthetic Down" and filed in May 1986, describes a particular mix of synthetic microfibers and macrofibers that compares favorably to down. It was proven to provide an equally efficient thermal barrier, be of equivalent density, possess similar compressional properties, have improved wetting and drying characteristics, and have superior loft retention when wet. The latter point illustrates PrimaLoft's primary advantage over down. Unlike down, PrimaLoft is able to retain 96% of its insulating capability when wet by maintaining its loft, and therefore is used in clothing and equipment intended to be used in cold, wet conditions, such as jackets, parkas, gloves, sleeping bags and footwear.

The intrinsic warmth of a jacket is highly correlated to both the type of PrimaLoft branded insulation used in the construction of the jacket, and the thickness of that insulation. A greater thickness of insulation will ensure greater airspace in which the insulation is able to trap body heat. Activity levels and warmth value of garments insulated with PrimaLoft products is largely dependent on the wearer and the garment's intended end use.

A BREATHABLE, HARD-WEARING, HIGHLY
ABRASION-RESISTANT FABRIC WITH A HIGH
STRETCH CONTENT TO ALLOW YOU A MAXIMUM
OF FLEXIBILITY IN ALL MOVEMENT ON ROCK.

ROCK RESISTANT

Tear and abrasion resistant yarn
increases the durability of your product.

STRETCHABLE

Highly stretchable 2-way or 4-way fabric
construction provides more flexibility.

BREATHABLE

Highly air permeable fabric keeps you dry
and comfortable when you sweat.