All of our outerwear fabrics use the same finishing system to achieve an optimum waterproof breathable performance. Here is an outline of what comprises that system.
WATERPROOF BREATHABLE COATING
Fabrics are coated with a micro porous hydrophobic coating on the inside of the fabric. The ‘micro-pores’ are small enough to block water from passing through to the skin but large enough to let the body’s vapors pass through to the outside. Unlike other coatings that lock moisture in and can become heavy when wet, our coating keeps the wearer light, dry and happy in rough conditions.
ECO DWR
The outside of the fabric is finished with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish that is a crucial part of the outerwear fabric system. It creates a slippery finish on the outside of fabric causing water to bead and slide off. The textile industry still widely uses is a DWR which contains fluorocarbon molecules. While boasting a high performance rating, unfortunately, these molecules are known carcinogens. As a company we have decided to switch to fluorocarbon free. It’s a decision we feel really good about.
TESTING
Fabrics we select must pass rigorous testing for abrasion, pilling, and tear-strength to establish their durability. Our products are built to last and the fabric is one of the central building blocks to making that happen.
OUTERWEAR FABRICS:
NYLON TWILL 10,000mm/5,000g rating
This 100% Nylon fabric is a staple for every day riding. It’s lightweight and durable and has a waterproof rating to keep you dry all season.
SQUARES 10,000mm/5,000g rating
This 100% Nylon fabric has a subtle jacquard weave in 5 awesome colours.
CRISS CROSS 20,000mm/5,000g rating
This is the burly fabric Arson is known for. The Criss Cross is 100% Polyester with a textured, suiting feel, taken in a new direction in our 2011 styles.
RECYCLED DOBBY STRIPE 15,000/5,000g rating
THe 100% Recycled Polyester has a two-tone woven stripe pattern. It's a midmeight & durable fabric with a waterproof rating for all conditions. The recycled polyester is derived from plastic bottles and is featured in our worldwise ORION line.
APPAREL FABRICS:
RECYCLED TECH MESH- Base Layer
55% recycled polyester, 45% polyester
Our mesh knit fabric is designed to wick sweat from your body. The soft silky hand of the fabric feels great against your skin. Recycled polyester content is derived from plastic bottles, thereby reducing our footprint on the earth.
RECYCLED MICROFLEECE- 2nd Layer
61.2% recycled polyester, 31.3% polyester, 7.5% spandex
Spandex gives this smooth-faced microfleece enough stretch to move with your body in fitted garments. The fuzzy back is both soft on your skin and provides maximum warmth for cold weather activities. Recycled polyester content is derived from plastic bottles, thereby reducing our footprint on the earth.
COTTON JERSEY, ORGANIC COTTON JERSEY, 80/20 FLEECE
Machine wash in cold water, lay flat or hang to dry. Harsh detergents or detergents with bleach will fade colours and adornments slightly. To ensure best care for your garments wash them inside out and do not put them in the dryer.
All of our cotton based fabrics are pre-washed. Further shrinkage is possible but will be minimal if the garment is cared for properly.
NYLON JACKETS
Wash in cold water and hang to dry. Do not put these garments in the dryer. If nylon garments are left in the washer damp they may pick up odours that can be difficult to get rid of.
WATERPROOF FABRICS
These fabrics, used in our technical outerwear & rainwear, have both an inside waterproof coating and an outside fabric finish to keep you warm and dry. This finish, called a DWR or “durable water-repellent,” enables the fabric to “bead” water off the surface of the garment. The DWR is an after fabric finish and will wear down over time. If the garments are left dirty or muddy the DWR will wear faster than if you keep your garment clean. It is necessary for the DWR to be reapplied every few seasons, and there are many easy options for you to do this at home. When properly cared for, the outer fabric will repel water while also enabling moisture vapour to pass through and escape.
Wash your technical garments in cold water and hang to dry. Do not leave in the washer wet. If these garments are left in the washer damp they may pick up odours that can be difficult to get rid of. Do not put these garments in the dryer. Once your garment has aired dry completely, we recommend a quick 5-10 minutes in a dryer on a cool setting. This blast of heat will reset your DWR and improve its ability to bead water off the surface of the fabric. Please be aware that a hot dryer can melt fur & plastic trims and damage the waterproof coating of the fabric over time.
It is also crucial to be aware of the types of detergent to use to clean your outerwear. Using harsh soaps or stain removers with bleach additives will cause your DWR to wear away much more quickly. Never dry clean garments with technical fabrics.