COOLMAX® fabric Enhances THE NORTH FACE Performance Sportswear

Outdoor Retailer Winter Market 2011

WICHITA, Kan.--()--COOLMAX® fabric, the original moisture management fabric, has been selected for the Spring 2011 line of THE NORTH FACE sportswear, a globally renowned brand of outdoor apparel. COOLMAX® fabric, from INVISTA, one of the world’s largest producers of fibres and polymers, is designed to wick moisture away from the skin during intense activities such as climbing, hiking, running and skiing. The innovative moisture management fabric regulates body temperature to provide cool, dry comfort that can help concentration, endurance and overall peak performance.

The raw materials development team at THE NORTH FACE identified COOLMAX® fabrics as a viable option to expand their moisture management capabilities. THE NORTH FACE then introduced new performance tees and polo shirts with COOLMAX® fabric which will be available at retail in Spring 2011.

“The moisture management technology that COOLMAX® fabrics provide and the extensive global supply chain, compliant mill partners and diversified library of COOLMAX® fabrics were crucial to our decision to collaborate with INVISTA,” said Vijay Somasundaram, Manager of Materials Sourcing for THE NORTH FACE.

COOLMAX® fabrics are available in varieties that range in design for casual activities to extreme performance demands. The moisture management performance of COOLMAX® fabric comes from the fiber structure itself and cannot be washed off. Proprietary polyester fibers speed moisture away from the body and through the fabric for quick evaporation.

According to Julien Born, global segment director for the Active and Outdoor segment at INVISTA Apparel, “We are delighted that the proven performance of COOLMAX® fabric combined with INVISTA’s reputation as a pioneer of moisture management helped THE NORTH FACE innovation team recognize an opportunity to create additional value for their customers. We look forward to achieving continued success together as we strive to further enhance fabric and garment performances in the sportswear segment.”

THE NORTH FACE performance sportswear with COOLMAX® fabric for Spring 2011 will be available at www.thenorthface.com and through dealers and retailers around the world. Also, both companies will be exhibiting at Outdoor Retailer Winter Market in Salt Lake City from January 20-23. For more information about COOLMAX® fabric innovations that are tailored to the specific demands of numerous activities, visit www.COOLMAXfabric.com.

About INVISTA

INVISTA is one of the world’s largest integrated producers of polymers and fibers, primarily for nylon, spandex and polyester applications. With a business presence in over 20 countries, INVISTA delivers exceptional value for its customers through market insights and technology innovations, along with a powerful portfolio of some of the most recognized global brands and trademarks in their respective industries including: COOLMAX®, CORDURA®, LYCRA®, POLARGUARD®, SOLARMAX®, SUPPLEX®, TACTEL®, and THERMOLITE®. More information on INVISTA can be found at www.INVISTA.com.

About THE NORTH FACE

THE NORTH FACE, a division of VF Outdoor, Inc., was founded in 1968. Headquartered in San Leandro, California, the company offers the most technically advanced products in the market to accomplished climbers, mountaineers, snowsport athletes, endurance athletes, and explorers. The company's products are sold in specialty mountaineering, backpacking, running, and snowsport retailers, premium-sporting goods retailers and major outdoor specialty retail chains. Learn more at www.thenorthface.com.

COOLMAX® is a trademark of INVISTA.

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Contacts

COOLMAX® fabric:
Kristin Altimari, +1-316-214-3118
Kristin.Altimari@INVISTA.com
or
THE NORTH FACE:
Pamela Bennett, +1-510-618-3654
pamela_bennett@vfc.com

Release Summary

COOLMAX® fabric, the original moisture management fabric, has been selected for the Spring 2011 line of THE NORTH FACE sportswear, a globally renowned brand of outdoor apparel.

Contacts

COOLMAX® fabric:
Kristin Altimari, +1-316-214-3118
Kristin.Altimari@INVISTA.com
or
THE NORTH FACE:
Pamela Bennett, +1-510-618-3654
pamela_bennett@vfc.com