Polartec is introducing Polartec Alpha, a new synthetic insulation technology developed for the U.S. Army that makes puffy garments breathable and more comfortable during active use. The technology, which will be showcased at trade shows in January and February, has already been adopted by 16 outdoor brands – five in the U.S. and 11 in Europe – for their autumn/winter 2013/14 collections. Marmot, Mammut, Rab and Westcomb are among them. Additional brands will use the technology in the following season.