Malden Mills announces the Polartec APEX Design Award winners for 2004. This award goes to the best-of-the-best Polartec based garments that will be available to consumers Fall 2004. Winners are selected based on the style, function, and fit of the garment as well as the most innovative and appropriate uses of Polartec fabrics in the designs.
This years winners range from maternity clothing to equestrian gloves to highly technical military layering systems. The Mountain Hardwear Poodle Jacket, Arcteryx Covert Cardigan, EMS Quadzilla Jacket, Ojai Winter-Tec Hoody, Prana Womens Microfleece Hoody and Patagonias R2 Granular, all 2004 winners, are examples of a new trend in technical insulation. Each of these pieces offers unique textures, beautiful attention to detail and can easily make the transition from the backcountry to the city.
Soft shell outerwear continues to evolve and is becoming more sophisticated, refined and versatile in its applications. Mountain Equipment Coop won with the gorgeous womens Pamir soft shell jacket with refreshingly clean lines. The REI Groove offers a truly technical, hooded parka made of Polartec Power Shield designed with climbers and skiers in mind. And the Ground Zephyr hooded jacket has unique color blocking for street appeal without sacrificing function.
Soft shell is not relegated strictly to outerwear, it is also holding its own in the world of accessories. This year the Timberland Snow Lizard Soft Shell Mid Shoe features Polartec Power Shield, funky and functional styling and an easy to use waterproof zipper for clean get-aways. The Seirus Soft Shell Glove System offers two integrated pairs of gloves in one package. It has a fitted, lightweight glove for aerobic applications or situations that demand dexterity and an insulated over-glove for warmth.
In the realm of hunting and fishing, garment designs continue to ratchet upward with creative uses of fabric and modern styling. Scent-loks Dakota Fleece Jacket has a micro Polartec Wind Pro outer surface which is exceptionally quiet, water resistant and durable and of course, features Scent-loks famous odor eliminating technology on the inside. Brownings Gatorfleece made of Polartec Wind Pro with Hardface technology applies some of the newest manufacturing techniques and modern trims to create one of the most versatile, comfortable and durable hunting jackets ever made. And to round out the category, Simms Fishing Products has created the most well-designed fishing top available using Polartec Power Dry with X-Static in the under-arms to manage odor, polypropelene cuffs which dry quickly, and a deep drop zipper for venting on warm days.
For expecting mothers, the Mountain Sprouts Zippy Maternity Top has disappearing zippers on the sides that can gradually expand the pullover as needed and then zip back to a smaller size. Once the baby arrives, the Baby Polar Gear Nuzzler, made of Polartec Classic 200, is an infant car seat cover that provides cozy warmth without sacrificing safety because it does not interfere with or loosen the straps. It is available in fun prints and solid colors and is reversible.
On the tactical side, Malden Mills continues to expand its business with the military and law enforcement agencies. As this business develops, Malden Mills R&D Department creates new fabrics and customers are finding new applications. The Soldier Systems Center of Natick, MA won for the third year in row with a multi-layer cold weather clothing system for the United States Marines. This integrated system offers comfort in a wide range of temperatures. Outdoor Research has developed highly flame resistant Rucker gloves featuring Polartec Power Stretch with Nomex fibers and Beyond Fleece has designed a Polartec Windbloc Tactical Jacket for law enforcement agencies in North America.
Other winners in 2004 include Ariats Insulated Tek Grip Glove made of Polartec Wind Pro with Hardface technology and designed specifically for the equestrian market. HYP Golf won with a very stylish, Double Zip Womens Jacket made of Polartec Power Shield and 180s has a new, ultra lightweight, sleek ear warmer called the Exolite which features Polartec Power Stretch. In addition to the R2 Granular, Patagonia had a second winner this year in the R2 Body Rug. The garment design perfectly fits the intended use of the Polartec Thermal Pro High Loft and this year the fabric weight has been reduced by 20% without sacrificing warmth. Lastly, Sheebeest, maker of beautiful womens cycling clothing, launched a vest and tight combination featuring Polartec Wind Pro with Hardface technology for wind resistance where you need it and Polartec Power Stretch in the areas where wicking and breathability are most critical.
