2024.10.01
A Thorough Examination of Workman's "Premium Water Repellent" Functionality that Surpasses Even "Super Water Repellent" Models
Workman is launching a new line called "X Shelter" for the 2024 autumn/winter season, which has garnered significant attention as "extremely cold-resistant clothing." At the recent Workman 2024 autumn/winter new product presentation, besides the "X Shelter," many innovative products were unveiled.
This time, we asked Yutaro Hagura, Chief Buyer of Product Development Department 6 at Workman Co., Ltd., about the development behind the "Premium Water Repellent" series, alongside Workman's official ambassador, Koji Yamada.
Water Repellent Fabric that Withstands 100 Washes
Koji Yamada (hereafter, Yamada)For someone like me who regularly uses Workman products, water repellency is a familiar feature. For instance, the "Super Water Repellent Chef Pants," which I had a hand in developing, indeed have the "super water repellent" function, but what kind of functionality does this "Premium Water Repellent" feature entail?
Yutaro Hagura (hereafter, Hagura)Rather than explaining in words, it might be quicker to take a look at this POP.
YamadaReading this is quite a challenge (laughs). 1: Fabric water pressure resistance and moisture permeability 2: Abrasion durability 3: Wind resistance 4: UPF50+ 5: Lightweight 6: Super water repellent 7: Antibacterial properties 8: Quietness 9: Multi-care 10: Ventilation. It's truly a parade of functions, but among them, being "super water repellent" is the standout feature, correct?
HaguraThat's right. The "Premium Water Repellent" series was developed through over five months of collaboration with a world-leading water repellent technology manufacturer, achieving a level of water repellency that surpasses existing Workman products. Workman has provided numerous water-repellent features in its items until now, but I take pride in this being the culmination of that development.
YamadaWhat specific differences exist compared to the previous water-repellent items?
HaguraThe durability of the water-repellent feature is significantly different. Previously, we referred to items that withstand 50 washes as "durable water repellent," while this "Premium Water Repellent" withstands 100 washes, double the previous standard.
The "Premium Water Repellent Soft Shell Trek Hoodie" and "Premium Water Repellent Soft Shell Trek Pants," both priced at 2,900 yen, embody an unparalleled level of water repellency at this price point. I believe it is a truly unique product.
Additionally, not only is the durability high, but the water repellency level itself is also remarkable.
YamadaWater seems to glide off the fabric like it’s on a slide. Is Workman ahead of competitors in terms of this level of water repellency?
HaguraWorkman has a significant number of customers seeking water repellency.
In fact, waterproofing and water repellency are different concepts. Waterproof means literally to block water, preventing it from entering the inside of the fabric. However, it is possible to be waterproof without having water repellency in the fabric itself.
It seems that Europeans and Americans do not place much importance on water repellency. Often, even high-end outdoor wear from Western brands lacks water repellency. However, many people in Japan have the perception that "if it’s not water-repellent, it’s not waterproof," resulting in a very high demand for water repellency.
YamadaIndeed, watching the water flow off like that feels refreshing, doesn’t it? (laughs)
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