Malden Mills has chosen the opening day of the Outdoor Retailer Show to announce a major line extension. Tape-able waterproof breathable fabrics will be offered under the sub-brand Polartec Aqua Shell, including one three-ply style, one two-ply with stretch and three additional two-ply fabrics with smooth, grid and rib textures. Finished garments made of Polartec Aqua Shell will hit the consumer market as early as Fall 2005.
Malden Product Marketing Manager Karen Beattie stated, “Polartec Aqua Shell is a sub-brand that has been around for a while. It originally included neoprene replacement type fabrics but the name always seemed most appropriate for true waterproof breathable fabrics – aka hardshell fabrics. Polartec is a mark of quality that consumers know and understand and this launch gives clothing manufactures another branded option.”
“Since Malden invented fleece in 1981, the company has expanded the definition of Polartec to include a range of performance textiles from next-to-skin to insulation to weather protection. By adding waterproof breathable fabrics to the line, Polartec now offers a complete collection of over 200 styles of fabric for truly all conditions,” followed Nate Simmons, spokesperson for Malden Mills.
The new Polartec Aqua Shell collection features the InVista Aquator membrane and will be manufactured in Asia. The launch offers five news styles and the company has clear plans to continue to expand the line in seasons to come.
