Synthetic insulation specialist PrimaLoft has unveiled “UltraPeak,” a new padding technology that delivers a lofty profile for apparel. The manufacturer is also launching a new platform, “PrimaLoft Rerun,” designed to advance circularity through material recycling.

“UltraPeak” stands out from existing offerings with a structure that PrimaLoft likens to cathedrals’ flying buttresses. The interweaving of architectural fibres and microfibres delivers consistent loft while maintaining a soft handle for greater comfort.

The new solution will occupy a premium position within the PrimaLoft range, which is currently used by over a thousand international brands across outdoor, sport, lifestyle apparel, home wear, and workwear.

“Since 1984, we have developed deep expertise and knowledge in insulation, and UltraPeak brings a new approach, with an insulator that takes on the look and feel of down,” Andrea Paulson, PrimaLoft’s director of innovation and technology, told FashionNetwork. “The architectural fibres help guarantee this loft, creating space for the insulation without adding weight to the garment.”

“UltraPeak” is also produced from 100% recycled fibres, and manufactured using the “PrimaLoft Pure” process, which is said to reduce the carbon footprint by more than 50% compared with conventional manufacturing methods.

The choice of circularity for “UltraPeak” forms part of a broader expansion of the company’s recycling ambitions. The company is also launching “Rerun”, a new platform aimed at increasing the use of fibres recovered from apparel to create new ones.

“All the indicators suggest that textile-to-textile recycling is the future of the outdoor industry,” said Andrea Paulson. “Rerun is designed to break the linear consumption model and addresses the issue of textile waste. Rerun products are intended to be circular, deliver superior performance and be produced in responsible facilities.”

“Rerun” relies on chemical recycling processes, as with the insulation in the “Silver” range, or on mechanical recycling, as with “ThermoPlume”, the manufacturer’s technology that mimics natural down.

Other additions to the PrimaLoft range include “ThermaStretch”, an insulation offering 30% greater elasticity than the rest of the range to support sporting activities; “HeatSphere”, an intermediate insulation layer that enhances heat retention; and “Rise Sleeping Bag”, a high-performance insulation designed for sleeping bags.

Headquartered in Latham, New York, and owned by Compass Diversified Holdings (CODI), PrimaLoft counts Patagonia, Helly Hansen, Moncler, Adidas, Lululemon, Gap, and Sitka among its clients.