Pertex MicroLight is a 30 denier microfibre nylon weighing 1.3 oz per square yd. Due to the combination of microfine filament yarns and extremely close weave, Pertex fabrics are inherently highly windproof and are calendered to make them downproof, providing a total barrier to penetration by insulation fibres. The fabric''s high density weave enhances insulation by trapping more air and because Pertex is so lightweight and low in bulk, the loft of the insulating material is maintained.
Pertex Microlight is constructed using DWR+ fabric. DWR+ is a unique durable water-repellent treatment which encapsulates each filament of the fabric with a hydrophobic polymer. This treatment gives excellent water shedding which remains effective after washing. As this is not a continuous coating breathability is not impaired.
The secret property that makes Pertex unique is its ability to disperse water. Where most nylon fabrics wick moisture directly through the weave, Pertex actually spreads it over a broad area by capillary action. Moisture therefore evaporates more rapidly. This remarkable property makes Pertex the moisture management fabric.
Pertex Endurance Pertex Endurance is a 30 denier high tenacity ripstop nylon with a moisture vapour permeable (MVP) coating. The finished fabric weighs 2 oz per square yard, which is extremely light for a "waterproof breathable" fabric that is both downproof and windproof and robust enough for continuous outdoor use.
Integral Designs uses Pertex Endurance as the standard shell fabric for the XPD 2 Himalayan and XPD 3 Arctic range of down bags. The Endurance fabric provides protection from external moisture (rain, condensation, drips from snow caves) and will assist in keeping the down dry when stuffing a bag which is wet on the outside. In extremely cold conditions fabric breathability will reduce, and a vapour barrier liner is recommended. An Endurance shelled bag is not completely waterproof due to the stitch holes along the baffles.
Pertex 685
Pertex 685 is a 40 denier microfibre ripstop nylon weighing 1.85 oz per square yard. The purpose of this fabric is to use fine filament, closely woven calendered materials to create a low bulk product that is windproof, water repellent and breathable. Pertex 685 is constructed using the same DWR + technology as Pertex Microlight (see above). However, the 40 denier base fabric is more robust and abrasion resistant than Microlight, making it the fabric of choice as a shell fabric for Primaloft insulated clothing. www.pertex.com
PERTEX is a registered trademark