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Answers By: Pia Halloran, VP of Product and Design
Q: Why do fabrics matter so much at Strafe?
A: Because we want you to forget about the clothes you're wearing!
Finding the right fabric is always the starting point in our design process, and choosing the most ideal material for each styles’ intended use is the end-goal.
Our approach to outerwear and layering has always been rooted in a deep understanding of the demands of mountain enthusiasts everywhere, that’s why we continuously look for the most innovative membrane technologies and durable yarns, new weaving techniques and non-toxic DWR’s. The drive to find the most exceptional materials never stops.
Q: How does breathability vs air-permeability work?
A: Traditional breathable membranes rely on pressure build-up, created by heat and moisture inside the shell, to release through the fabric. These membranes “breathe" by actively pushing moisture vapor through its molecular structure, rather than relying on physical pores allowing vapor and heat to escape. If the outside humidity is high, or temperature is low, this process might not work as efficiently. But, some materials perform better than others in certain temperature ranges, and we use breathable membranes in many of our insulated products.
For our 3-layer shell products we prioritize air-permeable fabrics and membranes over breathable ones. Air-permeable membranes allow air & moisture vapor to pass through the fabric via an active exchange; air flows from inside out as well as from the outside in, preventing heat and moisture build-up inside. This constant air-flow is unaffected by internal or external humidity and temperature ranges, made possible by the tiny pores that exist in the membrane. These pores are too small for water droplets from rain or melting snow to pass through to the inside, but large enough for heat and vapors to easily escape from the inside.
A shell using an air-permeable membrane will feel comfortable and temperature controlled from the moment you put it on, keeping you dry and comfortable, and allowing you to forget about your clothes while skinning up a ridgeline or charging through deep storm cycles.
One of our key partners is eVent®, a leader in air-permeable waterproofing. Described by SKI magazine as the "quiver killer" of outerwear sets, these pieces will work for you from the resort to the backcountry all season long.
Q: What other fabric technologies do Strafe use?
A: We’ve partnered with a Japanese fabric and membrane supplier for a number of years and have been able to develop some really exceptional materials with their help.
One of the favorites is our proprietary Recon Elite 3-layer fabric, it has an ultra-durable 4-way stretch face fabric, combined with an air-permeable membrane and a really soft jersey backer. This fabric is ideal for the cross-over skier and snowboarder, people who mostly ride the resort but also venture into the side- and backcountry occasionally. The Recon Elite has the perfect balance of breathability, durability, and weather protection, no matter where you choose to ride.
Our Recon Shield fabric was developed with the same supplier, a lightweight, fully recycled and PFAS-free mini ripstop material. We use it in our Aero collection, staple insulators in the Strafe lineup for many seasons, and love it for the sustainable story, soft hand-feel, and packability, making it ideal to wear under a shell during colder resort days, or keep in your pack as an emergency layer during backcountry tours.
Q: What steps do Strafe take towards sustainability when choosing fabrics?
A: Performance isn’t just about technical specs—it’s also about responsibility. That’s why we’re actively moving toward PFAS-free materials and recycled fabrics, eliminating harmful processes and chemicals without sacrificing performance or durability. Always remaining focused and committed to finding the most sustainable and functional solutions, we continuously work to minimize our environmental footprint with the hope that our efforts will allow us all to keep enjoying these mountains for decades to come!
Shop our best seller The Nomad Kit | Photo: Spencer Miller
