Heatseeker Technology

technology-heatseeker
Photo by Emre Karataş on Unsplash

The Heatseeker technology currently occupies an important place in the field of synthetic thermal insulation. It is widely used in the manufacture of clothing and equipment for hiking, mountaineering and skiing. Find out more about this type of insulation below.

What is Heatseeker technology?

This is a technology developed exclusively by the renowned brand The North Face, which has created a synthetic fabric with a polyester fibre.

Due to its design, this technology has a high potential as a heating and insulation element.

The main characteristics of the Heatseeker thermal insulation are as follows:

  • The products with this technology have a high performance insulation due to its high heat-to-weight ratio.
  • Garments with Heatseeker are very easy to lightweight and compressible. This makes it very easy to store in backpacks and luggage.
  • Heatseeker technology also provides a excellent wind protection. For this reason, products with this technology are considered ideal choices for protection in cold climates and high altitude locations.
  • As thermal insulation it is available in a wide range of products and equipment manufactured by The North Face, such as trousers, jackets, shoes, gloves and sleeping bags.

Differences between Heatseeker technology and feather insulation

The basic difference can be found in the fabric composition itself. The Heatseeker insulation is made from recycled polyester fibre material. Whereas in feather insulation, the feathers come from birds. Therefore, the Heatseeker technology has less impact on the environment and animal welfare.

In terms of technical characteristics. Mountain clothing with down insulation is warmer and lighter, but loses the ability to keep warmth in, unlike Heatseeker synthetic fabrics.

  • Heatseeker fabrics have the property of repelling water. Therefore, they lose little insulation capacity when they are completely wet.
  • Heatseeker garments are more easily compressible, which, combined with their versatility, makes them a very versatile and easy-to-wear garment. more versatile products, than down.
  • The Heatseeker can be washed in the washing machine, always respecting the manufacturer's instructions. In the case of down, it is necessary to preserve the integrity of the feather. For this reason, washing this type of garment is somewhat complicated.
  • In terms of cost, a garment of Heatseeker is more economical than a similar one made of down.

Depending on the activity to be carried out, a choice must be made between one technology or the other.

  • For aerobic activities, it is more convenient to use the Heatseeker or any other synthetic padding. Added to this is how compressible and versatile it is.
  • In extreme weather conditions down is more advisable, as it provides the garment with greater thermal insulation and a high degree of comfort. This will be different if the conditions are going to be very wet.

Recommended Heatseeker insulated products.

Some of The North Face's products that can be recommended and that feature the Heatseeker technology in its design is set out below:

Clement Triclimate Jacket

It's a versatile jacket that will work in any cold weather situation. It features a 3-in-1 design, which means you can adjust the Clement Triclimate jacket to suit your needs.

The insulation Heatseeker Eco on the inner jacket offers warmth that works with the outer layer on cold days or can also be worn on its own in warmer weather. The two-layer DryVent membrane provides excellent waterproofing capabilities, and this is further enhanced by a DWR coating.

Aleutian Light sleeping bag

The sleeping bag Aleutian Light has a practical and versatile design for mountain adventures and includes Heatseeker Eco insulation that gives you protection from the elements. and warmth up to a temperature of 10 °C.

The zip opens completely to be used as a floor for breakfast in the sun. When closed, it gives you enough space to keep out the heat.

Chakal Trousers

The The North Face Chakal children's trousers have been designed for hiking, mountaineering and skiing, providing excellent thermal, waterproof and breathable protection.

DryVent fabric provides adequate moisture wicking and is water and snow repellent. With the Heatseeker synthetic insulation, you will be warm and light enough for your outdoor activities.

Snow boots Shlista Extrem

The boots The North Face Shlista Extrem are designed for snowshoeing, providing you with the ultimate protection from the bitter cold, and have a good grip on the terrain to give you confidence and security.

The TNF Winter Grip outsole provides excellent traction on wet or snowy surfaces. The Heatseeker insulation offers great warmth and comfort at lower temperatures.

Conclusions

The Heatseeker technology is present in a wide range of clothing and equipment manufactured by The North Face. You can choose products with this insulation to accompany you in your mountain sports in extreme cold and high altitude conditions.