Chad Kelly: We can provide the perfect weather protection to suit any brand’s needs
eVent Fabrics, founded in 1999, revolutionised the industry with the first air-permeable 100 per cent waterproof membrane and continues to innovate high-performance textiles with sustainability in mind. The company is globally recognised for its breathable waterproof solutions and commitment to reliable, high-performance laminates that help users defy the elements. Trusted by leading brands, eVent Fabrics sets the standard for performance and striving for sustainability in outerwear, footwear, and accessories. Chad Kelly, President, eVent Fabrics, discusses the key trends shaping the technical textile industry today in this conversation with Divya Shetty.
How does eVent Fabrics differentiate its products from other waterproof and breathable fabric technologies in the market?
Our differentiation is that we use a variety of proprietary membranes paired with specific face and backer fabrics to offer laminates that not only offer lasting performance. Additionally, we can provide the perfect weather protection to suit any brand’s needs. Our PFAS-free laminate collection offers everything from stretch comfort, super lightweight and highly breathable, to ultra durable with high levels of waterproofness and MVTR.
How does eVent Fabrics ensure that its products meet the highest performance specifications? Can you share any testing or certifications that validate their durability and efficiency?
With over 25 years of experience, eVent has a deep and comprehensive knowledge of membrane technologies, textiles, and more importantly how those materials function in garments in the field. We back up our developments with comprehensive R&D and lab testing conducted at our laboratory in Shanghai.
eVent offers a variety of membranes for outdoor, military, and industrial applications. Which product category is the most demanding in terms of performance and innovation?
The continued evolution of sustainable textiles is ultimately the most challenging. Meeting standards in different countries while meeting our own high standards of performance and reaching our sustainability goals is not easy. However, we are proud of our recent innovations that include waterproof breathable PFAS-free curricular laminates that meet or exceed high-performance standards, for example.
Does eVent Fabrics have any presence in India, either through partnerships or direct market operations? How do you assess the current state of the technical textile industry in India compared to global markets?
eVent has not approached the Indian market, but we see it as an emerging market. As they say, timing is everything. We will look for signals that the market is ready and responsive to component technology. As a global business we are strategic in our expansion. Over the last several years we have focused on southeast Asia with compelling success. Perhaps India is on the horizon.
What sustainable initiatives has eVent Fabrics undertaken in terms of material sourcing, manufacturing processes, and recyclability?
We have a range of laminates that are PFAS-free and are made with recycled fabrics. Included in this range are a number that are also circular. We work with some incredible partners in our supply chain that are also invested in the same goal of performance + sustainability.
Is eVent Fabrics planning any capacity expansions or new manufacturing facilities to cater to growing demand?
We recently opened an office in Korea and have hired for our Product Development Team to meet the growing demand. And in anticipation of potential trade conflicts between the east and west, we are diversifying our supply chain into Vietnam and elsewhere.
How does eVent Fabrics ensure long-lasting performance in its products? Also, what key trends do you see shaping the future of technical textiles?
Ensuring long-lasting performance comes down to thorough testing, both in the lab and in the field. Key trends- interestingly we see two trends, one is to create durable laminates that will withstand the rigors of hard core uses but also an increasing demand for more ultralightweight product with high MVTR. In terms of shaping the future, textiles will need to be sustainable and long-lasting.
Looking ahead, what are eVent Fabrics’ key focus areas for innovation and product development? Are there any upcoming launches or strategic plans you can share?
The primary drivers for innovation for eVent are focused on sustainability and performance-oriented solutions. Of course, much of that is focused on product, but we also intend to take a leadership role globally, which will require continued education of brand partners and consumers. For this we are increasing our focus on the brand and our messaging. This past year has been quite busy for us. We’ve gone through a brand facelift; adopted a new tagline “defy the elements’; and will soon launch a new website.
