KNOW YOUR TECH breaks down the scientific technology used in your favorite sneakers and activewear. Let’s demystify your next purchase: today’s technology is 3M Thinsulate. Designed to keep athletes and adventurists warm in winter conditions, 3M Thinsulate is available in jackets, pants, gloves, boots, and hats from a number of brands. Whether you're running in the middle of a cold air spell, trekking through mountains, or hunting in the wilderness, 3M Thinsulate is a reliable and comfortable way to stay warm.
What is it? 3M Thinsulate is an insulation made up of fine microfibers that work together to trap warm air molecules. As heat builds up from the body, Thinsulate effectively traps the warmth while allowing any moisture to evaporate through its outer membrane.
How does it work? The key to 3M Thinsulate is its microfiber construction. The fine fibers are able to trap more warmth in less space than comparable synthetic and natural insulation, as they are about ten times smaller than traditional fibers. This not only allows for more efficient insulation, but allows for more of the fibers to be compacted into garments, resulting in higher levels of warmth.
Notable products: Helly Hansen Verglas Down Insulator, Helly Hansen Warm Ice Crew, The North Face Verto S4K Ice GTX, Merrell Adventure Rest Ridgeland Hoodie, Merrell Catalyst Insulated Jacket
Bottom line: There are many insulation options on the market, but 3M Thinsulate may be the most efficient and versatile of them all.
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