Columbia Sportswear Co. developing waterproof technology

Columbia Sportswear Co. is making a major push for waterproof technology. Today, the Portland, Oregon-based outdoor company has unveiled OutDry extreme, a product reported to be the most waterproof and breathable in the market. Beginning in spring 2016, the technology will be available on Columbia jackets.

The waterproof membrane designed for OutDry will be abrasion-resistant and placed on the outside of the garment, resulting in permanent water repellency. The way waterproof materials for clothes are usually created is by taking a thin waterproof membrane, covering it with a durable fabric with a repellant, and lining it with another fabric that will sit next to the skin. This technology was developed by Gor-Tex 45 years ago.

The problem with this technology is the outer shell breaks rather quickly and begins to "wet-out" after just several months. The repellant features will then begin to break down from abrasion, dirt, and body oils. This impacts breathability and the moisture generated by the wearer is no longer dispersed.

OutDry, Columbia's most premium product, will offer a solution to all of these problems. The new technology will be used in their Titanium collection in jackets and rain pants for men, women, and children. The price points for the men's and women's jackets will be between 150 dollars and 400 dollars, while prices for the children's collection will begin at 120 dollars.

The patent for OutDry is currently still pending. Columbia currently owns a 33 percent stake in the rainwear market, and in the past has patented technology like insulation fabric and omni-heat reflective technology. They are giving the rainwear market a long awaited dream come true.