The History of Fleece

Prior to 1980 fleece was not available, so those involved in outdoor activities had to really bundle up and venture out. There was very little innovation in outdoor clothing between the failed Everest expedition of George Leigh Mallory in 1924 and the successful journey of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tensing Norgay in 1953. They all needed to wear extensive heavy layers of clothing that severely restricted movement. The fabrics they wore also performed poorly when wet, either from the weather or perspiration. The real innovation in cold weather dressing came about with the 1981 invention of Polartec fleece by a company called Malden Mills.

Fleece is a wonderful improvement over other fabrics, pound for pound providing twice the insulation of merino wool and four times the insulation of cotton. In addition to being lightweight, it is soft to the touch, dries quickly, and continues to insulate well even when wet. One of the advantages to fleeces lightweight natures is that the wearer perspires less, allowing them to be cool and dry when not active and to retain more body heat when they are active. This makes it perfect for cold weather sports, which are often characterized by stop and go activity. Fleece is made from 100% polyester, which often comes from recycled plastics such as soda bottles. Some of the many great qualities of fleece are that it does not absorb water or orders, it will not break down in appearance, and it is hypoallergenic. Fleece is incredibly durable and long lasting, just like the soda bottle from which it is made.

A testament to how important the invention of fleece is can be seen by Polartec fleece being names by Time Magazine in 1999 One of the hundred great things of the 20th century."
 

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