The ISPO TEXTRENDS 2023/24 TOP TEN AWARD was recently presented by ISPO. An international jury of textile and sporting experts assessed a wide range of new textile-based products. It included 3M™ THINSULATE™ XEROGEL INSULATION as one of the top ten ‘most excellent products’ in the category Fibers & Insulations.
Given the time required to implement new textiles into upcoming apparel lines, the Top Ten Award recognised the insulation as a hot trend expected for the Fall and Winter lines released throughout 2023 and 2024.
Mike Mandanas, Global R&D Director, said, “The sell-cycle is around 18 months and it’s important that the textile apparel industry and organizations like ISPO continue to push and challenge ahead of each cycle to bring more innovation to the market.
“ISPO is excellent when it comes to spotting the products that are going to make an impact on the market, and we’re truly honored they recognized the potential of 3M™ Thinsulate™ Xerogel Insulation to revolutionize performance apparel and footwear.”
Launched in November 2021, it’s a xerogel-based insulation DESIGNED PRIMARILY FOR BOOTS AND GLOVES. Xerogel is an ultralight solid that’s nearly 99% air and, due to its porous structure, it can inhibit air circulation. This makes it a natural thermal insulator, retaining warmth even under compression.
This insulation also highlights 3M’s ongoing commitment to sustainable solutions as it’s comprised of 60% recycled fibres. Further, it’s proven to be 20 times more breathable and almost twice as warm as legacy 3M™ Thinsulate™ Insulation products designed for footwear.
The development falls into 3M’s wider sustainability initiatives. Today, 3M’s global headquarters is powered by 100% renewable electricity, with an aim of achieving 50% renewable electricity in all company locations by 2025.
In 2021, 3M announced it is pledging $1bn over 20 years to accelerate environmental goals, including reducing water usage, minimising dependence on virgin fossil-based plastics and achieving carbon neutrality across its operations.
To date, 3M™ Thinsulate™ Xerogel Insulation has met the sustainability standards for textiles set forth by bluesign®, OEKO-TEX®, and The Global Recycled Standard.
