Burlington, a division of International Textile Group (ITG), Greensboro, N.C., has introduced the Merino FX collection of seasonless performance fabrics targeted to outdoor apparel.
The collection includes a variety of 100-percent merino wool and merino-blend fabrics in different weights and constructions and advanced performance levels. merino-blended fabrics may include CORDURA® certified yarns, Supima® cotton, flax or TENCEL®. There also are plaids in 100-percent merino wool.
Noting that merino wool is often not regarded as a year-round fiber, Burlington Product Development Manager Tom Aubrey said, “The very thing that makes wool warm in winter makes it cool in summer, and the natural give and elasticity of wool fibers yields to the body’s movement, making them incredibly comfortable, wrinkle resistant and longwearing.”
In addition to its inherent temperature-regulating, insulating, antimicrobial and hydrophilic properties, merino wool is soft, lightweight and comfortable next to the skin. The fabrics in the Merino FX collection are easy-care, and most are machine-washable, Burlington reports. Other reported advantages are its biodegradability and durability.
In other company news, Burlington now offers Durepel™ Eco, a perfluorocarbon (PFC)-free bluesign® approved water and stain repellent that is targeted especially to outdoor apparel fabrics. The company reports the finish provides maximum protection through repeated launderings in addition to maintaining a fabric’s aesthetics.
“Performance and protection are key components in clothing the outdoor enthusiast,” said Burlington Labs Director Bill DiIanni. “Our new Durepel Eco technology provides our customers with a solution they have come to expect with reduced environmental impact that reflects the enthusiast’s sustainable ideals.
August 5, 2014
