PrimaLoft has launched a new version of its down alternative, PrimaLoft Insulation ThermoPlume. This synthetic fill is made entirely from post-consumer recycled materials.
Four years after introducing its blowable synthetic insulation, which now has “more than 70 brands using the loose-fill microfiber insulation for their Fall/Winter 2021/22 season,” said Primaloft. PrimaLoft Insulation ThermoPlume is 100 percent synthetic and now is 100 percent recycled.
“When we first developed PrimaLoft Insulation ThermoPlume in 2017, we answered the growing demand from designers, brands and customers for an ethical alternative to an animal product, a purchase criterion that is becoming ever more important. At the same time, we continued to deliver the excellent performance people expect from PrimaLoft products,” said Mike Joyce, president and CEO, PrimaLoft. “To achieve the same level of comfort and warmth in a completely recycled version is a logical next step in our Relentlessly Responsible approach to elevates sustainability and performance through innovation.”
PrimaLoft Insulation ThermoPlume is manufactured with small, fiber plumes that collectively form loose-fill insulation. “It mimics the fluidity,hand-feel and aesthetics of down, but also has the proven water-repellent properties of PrimaLoft fibers to provide a soft, compressible thermal output, even in wet conditions.”
“Its construction allows it to be blown through traditional down-blowing manufacturing equipment, simplifying the manufacturing process for brands and enabling product designers the freedom to create versatile garments that combine the look and feel of down with the water-resistant performance of a synthetic,” continued Vanessa Mason, SVP, Engineering, PrimaLoft. “Moreover, it helps to simplify the supply chain, combat the volatility of down prices and provide peace of mind when it comes to the ethical sourcing of materials.”
“More than 70 brands use PrimaLoft Insulation ThermoPlume. This synthetic down alternative has been adopted by outdoor and fashion brands worldwide since its 2017 introduction. Even before the new 100 percent recycled iteration, around 40 brands were using PrimaLoft Insulation ThermoPlume in their collection. For the upcoming FW 2021/22 season, and with the introduction of PrimaLoft Insulation ThermoPlume 100 percent PCR, the number “will raise drastically to over 70, with more than half already switching to the fully recycled version,” said Primaloft.
