Forty-five years ago, Polartec – a Milliken & Company brand – created the world’s first synthetic fleece, a lightweight alternative to heavy wool that revolutionized outdoor performance apparel and became a pioneering material breakthrough radically changing the industry. Recognized by Time Magazine in 1998 as one of the 100 Best Inventions of the 20th century, Polartec fleece set a new standard in modern layering systems and today remains a backbone for warmth, breathability, and fast-drying comfort.
Polartec debuted fleece into the outdoor market with Patagonia and the launch of the now iconic Synchilla Snap-T pullover fleece in the mid 1980s. The material’s legacy continues today in best-selling products including the 66° North Tindur jacket, demonstrating fleece’s versatility from everyday casual wear to protection in extreme mountain conditions. Since its creation in 1981, Polartec has continuously advanced fleece technology, introducing the first material made from recycled plastic bottles in 1993 and evolving through ground-breaking innovations focused on durability, reduced fiber shedding, and lower-impact material choices.
Today, Polartec fleece powers performance across diverse applications and a variety of global sport, outdoor, and lifestyle brands. Highlights include Satisfy Running, who reinterpreted Polartec Alpha next-to skin fleece insulation within its FuzzFleece AD Light Hoodie, and most recently, Polartec is honored to power the Nike ACG x United States Olympic Team jacket. Crafted with Polartec 100 Series Fleece and built with Polartec’s advanced knit construction to efficiently trap heat while releasing excess moisture, this technical mid-layer ensures comfort, warmth and freedom of movement at the highest level of sport. The jacket incorporates recycled fibers, reinforcing both brands’ shared commitment to responsible design. The approach aligns with Polartec’s decades‑long leadership in lower‑impact warmth solutions and Milliken’s continued advancement in material science that supports sustainability.
“From remote mountain environments to everyday city wear, Polartec fleece has set the standard for warmth‑to‑weight performance for decades,” said Ramesh Kesh, SVP and Business Manager for Milliken’s apparel business. “Seeing our fabric featured in such an iconic ACG silhouette underscores both the durability of premium fleece and its continued relevance for today’s athletes and fans alike.”
Polartec is proud to celebrate 45 years of synthetic fleece, paying homage to the one material that has continued to evolve and perform – supporting brands, athletes, and new generations of outdoor consumers around the world. For more details on Polartec fleece product launches, brand activations, and material science. visit Polartec.com.
