We are entering new territory in the field of insulation
Outlast Technologies is a market leader in climate-regulating materials, specialising in proactive heat management and insulation for textiles. Originally developed for NASA, Outlast thermo-technology has revolutionised textile thermo-regulation by preventing moisture build-up and enhancing comfort. Based in Heidenheim, Germany, Outlast is known for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation. In an interview with Fibre2Fashion, CEO Martin Bentz discusses temperature-regulating fabrics and insulation solutions, including the innovative Aersulate product, which provides efficient insulation in minimal space.
How do you see the role of smart textiles evolving in industries outside of fashion, such as healthcare, automotive, and aerospace?
Although the Outlast temperature regulation technology originally comes from NASA, the market for astronaut equipment is understandably limited. Jokes aside, while space may not offer vast opportunities for us, we see tremendous potential in sectors such as orthopaedics, personal protective equipment (PPE), and medical technology.
We are continuously growing in these areas because reduced sweating can significantly enhance the comfort of a prosthetic or, in some cases, make its use possible. For example, the skin beneath a prosthesis often faces considerable strain, and reduced moisture can work wonders in improving comfort.
In PPE, our technology has the potential to be a real game-changer. Reduced sweating is not just about comfort; it also means better hydration management for the wearer, leading to increased performance and concentration.
In medical technology, our innovation is frequently applied in radiological equipment, which is essential and must be worn. By improving comfort, we are helping make a challenging requirement more manageable. Ultimately, we are here to support our customers every step of the way.
How important is collaboration between technology and textile companies in driving the next wave of innovations for performance materials?
At Outlast, we have the broadest selection of fabrics and fibres for temperature regulation on the market, which allows us to offer tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of our clients. Our goal is always to maximise the performance of each product, ensuring it delivers the best possible outcome in its application.
Achieving this requires not only advanced technology but also intensive consultation and a deep exchange with our customers. This collaborative approach is a standard practice for us. We work closely with our clients to understand their unique challenges, and this often leads to long-lasting partnerships that span many years.
Outlast has been a market leader in climate-regulating materials for over two decades. What has been the key to maintaining this leadership position, and how do you continue to innovate in such a competitive field?
We simply never rest on our achievements. We stay active, not just in continuously improving our products—making them more sustainable, softer, and more refined—but also by introducing new versions and staying on top of modern colour trends. As a result, we continue to offer an exceptionally broad collection of fabrics, fibres, and yarns that is hard to match.
At the same time, we are constantly innovating in the way of application. With fresh2SKIN, we can equip nearly any textile with impressive cooling performance and Outlast Temperature Regulation through a simple dipping process. In this case, we are essentially providing the ‘bath additive’ for high-performance textiles.
And let us not forget our groundbreaking new Aersulate technology, which we are particularly excited about.
You described the Aersulate technology as groundbreaking in the field of insulation. Could you share more about its development and what makes it stand out in the market?
Yes, we are entering new territory in the field of insulation, but we would not be Outlast if there was not something big behind it. We have successfully managed to permanently bond Aerogel to textiles while maintaining its unique properties. Now, you might be wondering—what exactly is Aerogel? Aerogel is the lightest solid in the world. And why? Because it contains an incredible amount of air. In fact, a single pinhead of Aerogel contains 10 billion pores—that is a number with 10 zeros. Since air is the ultimate insulator, Aerogel has become our key partner in this innovation.
We have developed textiles that are only about 1mm thick yet offer exceptional insulation performance. And the best part? They perform even under pressure. With traditional insulation materials like wadding, insulation decreases rapidly under pressure—think about how pants lose warmth when the wearer kneels or sits. With our Aerogel materials, the air is integrated on a molecular level, so it does not escape under pressure. Essentially, pressure has little to no impact on performance. And by the way, moisture is no obstacle either—it nearly does not affect the insulation values.
Can you also shape the insulation of apparel beyond fabrics for special applications?
Yes, that is exactly what we are expecting. We have also succeeded in integrating Aerogel into fibres, which is a true world first. We shall be showcasing this innovation shortly, initially as filling fibres for the bedding industry. We are confident that the Aersulate fibre will soon be available in forms like wadding, nonwoven, or felt.
This will allow us to expand into other sectors, such as the apparel and footwear industries. We are also excited to offer high-performance fibres to manufacturers in the PPE sector, including firefighter gear and technical applications. The possibilities are vast and exciting.
Outlast’s roots with NASA’s technology are well known. How does this connection continue to shape the company’s ethos and technological advancements?
The NASA origin of the technology is very important for us to demonstrate credibility, seriousness of the technology and the high-tech background of the technology. We are authorised to use NASA and Space Foundation for marketing purposes which helps us a lot.
Your proactive thermo-regulation technology is unique in that it prevents moisture formation. Can you explain how this approach benefits your clients and end consumers compared to conventional moisture-wicking technologies?
Unlike conventional moisture-wicking systems, Outlast Temperature Regulation technology tackles the problem earlier—before moisture even forms. Our textiles are capable of absorbing excess body heat, which can reduce or even completely prevent sweating. Conventional systems only transport sweat after it has already been produced.
Additionally, Outlast technology can return stored heat when needed, keeping the wearer warm during less intense physical activity or when external temperatures drop. This creates a balanced microclimate, enhancing both comfort and overall well-being.
Outlast has a strong reputation for transparency and responsible business practices. How do you ensure that your global supply chain adheres to the highest environmental, human rights, and working conditions standards?
We have very high requirements towards our suppliers. Not only technical requirements but also requirements towards human rights, child labour, modern slavery, working condition, working hours and wages, non-discrimination, harassment and abuse, business ethics, environment and sustainability.
Majority of Outlast’s products are made in Germany. How important is this local manufacturing approach in terms of quality control and sustainability?
It is important to have manufacturing which is located closely to the R&D centre and to the market. Nevertheless, we also have manufacturing for certain components in Asia and in the United States.
What role does Outlast’s “Certified Space Technology” designation play in the company’s branding and product appeal to manufacturers and consumers?
NASA is, as previously mentioned, important to us not only for its technological background but also for marketing purposes. Every consumer is familiar with NASA, and it holds a very strong brand position, which allows us to create a valuable link between NASA and Outlast.
What challenges do you foresee in the future of proactive heat management materials, and how is Outlast preparing to meet them?
We never stand still, which is crucial as the market is evolving at a rapid pace. We have several innovations in the pipeline that will help maintain market interest in our products. Everything we manufacture is related to temperature, and in the age of global warming, this product range is not only important but also forward-looking.
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