About Polar Fleece

Polar fleece has only been around since 1979, but it's hard to believe how we ever got along without it. It is an inexpensive alternative to wool, excellent for workout gear and snuggly and fun for winter!

History

Polar fleece was invented in 1979 and first produced in Malden Mills, in Malden, Massachusetts. After a fire, the manufacturing was moved to Lawrence, Massachusetts, and the company is now known as Polartec, for the product that renewed its flagging business.

Identification

Polar fleece is a chemical compound known as PET, or polyethylene terephthalate, and has a molecular formula of (C10H8O4)n. It is a hydrophobic fabric, meaning it absorbs very little water at any given time, even when completely submerged. This makes it an ideal winter fabric; because it is hydrophobic it also retains its warmth, or insulating properties, even when wet. It is a totally vegan cloth and can also be made from recycled plastic bottles.

Warning

Though there are treatments to combat this, one of the main drawbacks of polar fleece is its tendency to electrostatic, or static cling, not only attracting lint, fur, and hair, but also creating electrical currents that can shock the wearer or make the fabric cling to itself in unsightly ways. It also is flammable and can melt when it is too close to a heat source.

Function

Polar fleece is at its best as an insulation layer, be it in a blanket or in winter wear. It is massively popular for coats, jackets, vests, hats, gloves, mittens and scarves for its softness and thermoinsulation. Because it is relatively cheap to produce, it remains a fairly cheap commodity (though more expensive options are available that have been treated in special ways for optimal performance).

Benefits

All in all, polar fleece is a great option to throw a little color and warmth into your winter season no matter wear you live; it can come in varying thicknesses and weights and is still much cheaper and softer and usually more durable than wool. It is low maintenance, quick drying and easy to care for.