// Fabric Technology
// Fabric - Fit - Function
Exceptional garments demand exceptional fabrics, which is why we at Arktis are so keen to continually improve, research and develop our fabric offerings
// Fabric - Fit - Function
Working with our sister company and fabric mill Dinsmore Textile Solutions as well as development and testing labs around the world gives us access to a huge range of fabrics, treatments and testing.
/ Fabric technology
Inherent FR
Flame Retardance
While flame retardant treatments are common place, they are liable to degrade in performance over time with wear and washing. Inherent FR fabrics don't degrade in the same way, meaning garments will continue to perform
/ Fabric technology
Mechanical Stretch
Lighter than our standard ripstop and ready to flex with you, the Mechanical Stretch Nylon Cotton blend weighs only 185gsm while boasting CORDURA® fibre ripstop and a native mechanical stretch. Lightweight, sturdy and comfortable without using elastane or stretch fibres that perish over time, giving performance and lifespan
/ Fabric technology
DWR Treatment
Durable Water Repellent
While DWR technology has been around for quite some time, it certainly hasn't stayed stationary. The basic principle is simple, coat each fibre of the fabric with hydrophobic material to stop moisture from passing through the weave or sitting on the surface, without reducing breathability.
Most recently there has been a lot of discussion and research around PFAs or "forever chemicals", and the introduction of more environmentally friendly alternatives. Unfortunately, as things stand these more natural options are more vulnerable to wear and
At Arktis we have closely followed this development, balancing reduced environmental impact with the performance demanded by the highest level users.
/ Testing & Certification
Waterproofing Tests
Hydrostatic head testing
Hydrostatic head testing is a mechanical version of the water column test. It uses a clamped fabric sample subjected to an incrementally increased water pressure until droplets begin to pass through the fabric. This is used to establish how waterproof the fabrics and our garments are, with Arktis’ standard for waterproofing being rated at 20k mm.
EN343 – Waterproof and breathability testing
To meet this standard, the garments must be resistant to wet weather and humidity. It must also be breathable enough to let moisture and sweat escape. Both aspects of this, breathability, and waterproofness, are graded 1-4, with 4 being the highest. Arktis can produce products to the highest 4:4 standard.
/ Testing & Certification
Thermal and visibility certification
EN342 – Thermal testing
This standard meets the requirements for garments designed to protect the user from cold weather environments of –5C.
EN ISO 20471 – High-Visibility Clothing
This sets out the standard for high-visibility, with Class 3 as the highest standard. Three main components determine a garment’s class. The fluorescent materials, the size of reflective materials, and the contrast materials.