OutDry Technologies unveiled the OutDry Extreme technology that is to be applied for waterproof and breathable Columbia-branded rainwear from next year, marking the first time that OutDry is used for apparel. The technology consists of patented lamination processes that bond a waterproof, breathable membrane directly to the product's outermost layer (instead of the other way around, taking a waterproof membrane, covering it with a fabric treated with durable water repellent and lining it with another comfortable fabric). OutDry is an Italian company that was acquired by Columbia Sportswear in 2010 and continues to operate almost independently. Its footwear technology is used by Columbia as well as other brands, but OutDry Extreme should remain exclusive to Columbia apparel for at least a couple of years.

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