When the weather takes you by surprise, what you are wearing matters. The most important job of outdoor clothing is to protect you – but what if that protection came about completely naturally, without synthetic materials or harmful chemicals? That is exactly why OPTIM™ technology was developed, taking the properties of merino wool to a new level.
A new dimension of merino wool
OPTIM™ is an advanced step forward in the making of merino wool. It combines a traditional natural material with modern technology: the merino wool fibres are stretched before being spun into yarn, after which they are woven into an exceptionally dense fabric. The result is a durable, water-repellent and windproof fabric – entirely without chemical finishes or PFAS compounds.
Pre-stretching the fibre creates a structure in which the fabric becomes even denser during wet finishing. This natural "shrinking" locks the fibres tightly together, which significantly improves the fabric's protective properties – without having to compromise on breathability.
What does this mean for you?
✔ Water-repellent without extra treatments
OPTIM™ fabric resists moisture naturally. It does not need DWR chemicals or fluorine compounds to stay dry.
✔ Protects against wind
The dense structure stops cold wind from reaching your skin. The result is better temperature regulation and comfort.
✔ Natural durability
Merino wool is known for its softness, but OPTIM™ also makes it exceptionally firm and durable – without plastic or synthetic fibres.
✔ Machine washable
All these properties do not come at the expense of practicality – the fabric is machine washable, just like North Outdoor's other merino wool garments.
Free from harmful chemicals – now and in the future
More and more countries are taking a stand against harmful PFAS compounds, and France, for example, plans to ban their use in clothing by 2026. OPTIM™ offers a ready alternative: a completely natural, high-performing and safe solution that places no burden on the environment or your skin.
North Outdoor & OPTIM™ – the natural choice
At North Outdoor, we believe that the best innovations come about when nature's own materials are respected and used wisely. OPTIM™ technology is an excellent example of this: an advanced manufacturing method with genuine merino wool at its core – and nothing superfluous.
When you choose the natural option, you do not compromise on performance. OPTIM™ fabric shows that merino wool can protect you in all weathers – cleanly, responsibly and effectively. Explore our products made with OPTIM™ technology: the Luka and Aura shell jackets and the River cap.
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