News

DuPont announces a broad portfolio of scientifically engineered performance materials that provides manufacturers and retailers with “one stop” shopping for their winter sports apparel and outdoor accessories.  DuPont’s array of products, which includes DuPont™ Active Layer, DuPont™ Sorona® and DuPont™ ComforMax®, are based on the latest advancements in materials technology.  While each has its own unique attributes and benefits, when used together DuPont’s performance products allow manufacturers to take their designs to new heights.  DuPont’s product portfolio will be showcased at the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market 2006 in Salt Lake City, UT, Jan. 28 - 31, 2006 (DuPont booth #3588 on tradeshow floor).

DuPont™ Active Layer 
DuPont™ Active Layer is a waterproof, breathable film, which blocks out wind, cold and water.  Use of DuPont? Active Layer in apparel applications helps people stay dry and comfortable during inclement weather conditions.  The DuPont™ Active Layer manages moisture through an impenetrable, yet breathable, layer of film of high-quality construction that provides superior functional performance.  DuPont™ Active Layer is featured in a variety of clothing products, such as ski and snowboard gloves, winter sports jackets, golf rain gear, shoes and hunting apparel.  It is also used in operating room gowns, some personal protective apparel, backpacks, sleeping bags and bedding covers.

DuPont™ Sorona®
DuPont™ Sorona® polymer provides freedom of movement along with easy care.  No longer do designers have to choose one attribute or benefit over another.  The product’s distinct combination of features and benefits is appealing to designers who value quality and the ability to respond quickly to changing market needs.  Unique combinations of attributes include exceptional softness, comfort stretch and recovery, vibrant color and wrinkle resistance.  DuPont™ Sorona® is easily blended with other natural and synthetic fibers and is adaptable to a wide variety of end uses, including ultra soft intimate apparel, high-performance activewear, comfortable lifestyle wear, swimwear and warm, cozy outerwear.  Fabrics made with DuPont™ Sorona® can be found on www.fastextile.com, an online fabric catalog.

DuPont™ ComforMax®
DuPont™ ComforMax®, a two-layer technology with a unique polyethylene membrane and fine denier polyester fiberfill, provides superior warmth and breathable comfort without the bulk.  It also provides incredible softness and excellent durability.  DuPont™ ComforMax® products have been specially created to enhance the performance of outdoor apparel and are capable of making casual wear both wind and water resistant without the need for additional water resistant treatment.  DuPont™ ComforMax® is manufactured using the most advanced carding technology and provides four to five times more fiberfill layers than other insulation, making it the ideal insulation for high-performance outerwear, sportswear and sleeping bags.

The latest addition to the advanced fiber portfolio is DuPont™ Downling™ 1452S – a unique and premier fabric that is permeable to air and water vapor.  Its tough, water-resistant characteristics provide a formidable barrier to water and wind and its dense structure constitutes an excellent barrier against down/feather migration.  DuPont™ Downling™ 1452S gives down jackets breathable comfort and fast drying superior qualities.

Meeting Evolving Customer Needs
Performance technologies, such as DuPont™ Active Layer, DuPont™ Sorona® and DuPont™ ComforMax®, are already making their way into commercial clothing lines.  “Today's consumer wants to enjoy the great outdoors in all climate conditions and needs performance apparel and accessories that not only provide added warmth, but also maximum comfort for easy movement,” said Linda Marquess, DuPont business development manager.  “By working with DuPont, manufacturers can select from a broad portfolio of technologies and can even request a tailor-made, holistic package that delivers the critical combination of warmth, comfort, softness, flexibility and durability they are looking for.”  DuPont is collaborating with a number of manufacturers and retailers and anticipates widespread commercial application of its technologies in the near future.

Outdoor Retailer is the leading tradeshow venue of choice for the Outdoor Specialty Industry, bringing together top manufacturers, retailers, industry advocates and media committed to the business of the recreational outdoors.  Currently in its 24th year, Outdoor Retailer Winter Market 2006 will be held in Salt Lake City, Utah, from Jan. 28-31 at the Salt Palace Convention Center.  More information can be found at www.outdoorretailer.com.

DuPont is a science company.  Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere.  Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture, nutrition, electronics, communications, safety and protection, home and construction, transportation and apparel.

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1/28/06

The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPont™, The miracles of science™, Sorona®, ComforMax®, and Downling™ 1452S are trademarks or registered trademarks of DuPont or its affiliates.

Press Contact for DuPont™ Sorona®, DuPont™ Comformax® and DuPont™ Downing™:

Gaylen Cragin

202-729-4145

gaylen.cragin@ogilvypr.com

For DuPont™ Active Layer - Press Information