Encyclopedia Archive

U.L. Down

Ultra Light Down is used in women’s and men’s jackets. the concept is to make the lightest and warmest insulation layer available. U.L. Down jackets weigh less than a tee.

Term used to describe a fabric used in outerwear, which allows for a minimum pack volume and weight. Lightweight packable garments offer the most versatile weather protection. Some of these fabrics have a protective layer on the membrane, which provides durability. This means that the garments made from extra lightweight fabrics need no separate lining.

Ultrasuede

Is the trade name for a synthetic ultra-microfiber fabric invented in 1970 by Dr. Miyoshi Okamoto, a scientist working for Toray Industries. It is often described as an artificial substitute for suede leather. The fabric is multifunctional: it is used in fashion, interior decorating, automobile and other vehicle upholstery. Ultrasuede combines the rich aesthetics of a suede surface with benefits…

Under-Press

To press the underside of a garment section during manufacturing to open the seams and give it shape.

UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor)

The UPF rating indicates how effective a fabric is at blocking out solar ultraviolet radiation from reaching the skin. UPF ratings range from 15 to 50 with higher ratings indicating more effective blocking and therefore better protection for the wearer of a garment. Fabrics that test higher than UPF 50 are rated as UPF50+. UPF testing involves exposing a fabric…

UV Degradation

The breaking down of fibers or fabrics when exposed to ultraviolet rays.