FABRIC INNOVATIONS
TECHNOLOGY THAT PERFORMS
North Sails Performance Apparel is called that for a reason, because we consider every detail with performance in mind. Our fabric innovation is driven by one goal: to keep sailors protected, comfortable, and in control—whatever the ocean delivers. From GORE-TEX® Pro to 4DL™ reinforcement, every detail is engineered for durability, breathability, and absolute confidence on the water.
THE ONLY FABRIC FOR THE JOB
GORE-TEX® PRO
GORE-TEX® Pro is the only membrane durably waterproof enough to withstand the demands of our sport. Its advanced three-layer construction delivers total waterproof protection, complete wind resistance, and exceptional breathability—allowing moisture to escape quickly during active race periods while keeping you warm and comfortable in calmer moments. Our latest generation is stronger, lighter, and engineered for lasting performance. Tested and proven over 25 years of offshore and ocean racing, GORE-TEX® Pro remains the industry benchmark.
GORE-TEX® Pro is the only membrane durably waterproof enough to withstand the demands of our sport. Its advanced three-layer construction delivers total waterproof protection, complete wind resistance, and exceptional breathability—allowing moisture to escape quickly during active race periods while keeping you warm and comfortable in calmer moments. Our latest generation is stronger, lighter, and engineered for lasting performance. Tested and proven over 25 years of offshore and ocean racing, GORE-TEX® Pro remains the industry benchmark.
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PERFORMANCE UNDER PRESSURE
PERTEX® SHIELD AIR
Pertex® Shield Air is an ultra-breathable technology engineered for dynamic performance. Its membrane uses an electrospun nanofibre web with an open network of microscopic pores—allowing air to pass through while keeping water out. This structure promotes continuous airflow and moisture transfer, reducing humidity and overheating inside your gear. Laminated to a lightweight woven layer, it delivers a soft, comfortable feel with impressive stretch for freedom of movement. The result: all-weather comfort that keeps breathing with you.
Pertex® Shield Air is an ultra-breathable technology engineered for dynamic performance. Its membrane uses an electrospun nanofibre web with an open network of microscopic pores—allowing air to pass through while keeping water out. This structure promotes continuous airflow and moisture transfer, reducing humidity and overheating inside your gear. Laminated to a lightweight woven layer, it delivers a soft, comfortable feel with impressive stretch for freedom of movement. The result: all-weather comfort that keeps breathing with you.
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PROTECTION WOVEN IN
TIGHTWEAVE™
TightWeave™ is a North Sails innovation that uses ultra-fine threads and a tightly woven structure to deliver natural, long-lasting water repellency. The protection is part of the fabric itself—so it doesn't wash off like traditional chemical coatings. The denser weave enhances durability and abrasion resistance to keep your gear performing at its best season after season. We've adapted TightWeave™ to give the optimum mix of capabilities in different race environments—from exteme offshore to elite inshore racing.
TightWeave™ is a North Sails innovation that uses ultra-fine threads and a tightly woven structure to deliver natural, long-lasting water repellency. The protection is part of the fabric itself—so it doesn't wash off like traditional chemical coatings. The denser weave enhances durability and abrasion resistance to keep your gear performing at its best season after season. We've adapted TightWeave™ to give the optimum mix of capabilities in different race environments—from exteme offshore to elite inshore racing.
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NO LEAKS. NO LIMITS.
4DL™
Developed to solve some of sailing’s oldest problems—leaky knees and wet seats—4DL™ is our four-layer laminated reinforcement. Traditional Cordura patches create heavy, water-trapping pockets that weaken seams over time. 4DL™ uses a lighter, tougher material laminated directly onto the outer GORE-TEX® Pro shell for a seamless, watertight finish. When dry, it's 30% lighter than alternatives, and when wet, the lamination prevents moisture from getting trapped—no compromises, no leaks, no limits.
Developed to solve some of sailing’s oldest problems—leaky knees and wet seats—4DL™ is our four-layer laminated reinforcement. Traditional Cordura patches create heavy, water-trapping pockets that weaken seams over time. 4DL™ uses a lighter, tougher material laminated directly onto the outer GORE-TEX® Pro shell for a seamless, watertight finish. When dry, it's 30% lighter than alternatives, and when wet, the lamination prevents moisture from getting trapped—no compromises, no leaks, no limits.
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WATER OUT. COMFORT IN.
DuraSeal™
Developed as a replacement for weak latex seals, DuraSeal™ is a super-thin, incredibly stretchy 1.2mm glideskin neoprene that forms an entirely watertight seal at the neck and wrist. A tough external nylon layer protects against UV damage and abrasion, extending longevity beyond traditional seals. Inside, a smooth rubber finish glides comfortably against the skin—without any of the irritants or allergic properties of Latex.
Developed as a replacement for weak latex seals, DuraSeal™ is a super-thin, incredibly stretchy 1.2mm glideskin neoprene that forms an entirely watertight seal at the neck and wrist. A tough external nylon layer protects against UV damage and abrasion, extending longevity beyond traditional seals. Inside, a smooth rubber finish glides comfortably against the skin—without any of the irritants or allergic properties of Latex.
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STAY FRESH. STAY OUT THERE.
POLYGIENE®
Polygiene® Stays Fresh Technology keeps clothing fresher for longer by stopping the growth of odor-causing bacteria with a biocide made of silver chloride. This salt inhibits and guards against the growth of bacteria and fungi. Polygiene® stays effective through many more washes than any other antibacterial treatment. Applied during the finishing stage, it requires minimal resources and meets the highest environmental standards, with full bluesign® approval and OEKO-TEX® certification.
Polygiene® Stays Fresh Technology keeps clothing fresher for longer by stopping the growth of odor-causing bacteria with a biocide made of silver chloride. This salt inhibits and guards against the growth of bacteria and fungi. Polygiene® stays effective through many more washes than any other antibacterial treatment. Applied during the finishing stage, it requires minimal resources and meets the highest environmental standards, with full bluesign® approval and OEKO-TEX® certification.
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