Hobbs Bonded Fibers has introduced RamTect, a 100% nonwoven wool insulation for outdoor winter clothing. At OR Summer Market, Hobbs further upped the ante in the insulation game by introducing RamTect Thin, a lighter, thinner version of RamTect for summer-weight insulation.

RamTect Thin is only 1/8 inch thick and is naturally wind-resistant, eliminating the need for down-proof woven fabrics and wind-resistant membranes. It also retains its shape and insulating properties without having to be quilted or baffled which allows garments insulated with RamTect Thin to weigh the same, or in some cases, less than garments using down or other synthetic insulations.

RamTect Thin is also an ideal insulation for fall/winter boots and gloves since wool is naturally superior to other insulations in moving moisture away from the body and evaporating it into the air.

“Clothing designers have been trying to find the perfect balance between garment weight, warmth and moisture wicking for a long time,” says RamTect developer Doug Hoschek. “RamTect Thin creates unlimited options for designing lightweight, technical clothing suited to spring or summer activities, or when the prevention of overheating in 40 to 60 degree temperatures is a priority.”

Hobbs Bonded Fibers is committed to producing American-made products, using only domestically raised wool and processing it into RamTect and RamTect Thin at its Waco, TX facility.

In addition to promoting its insulation to finished goods manufacturers exhibiting at OR, Hobbs displayed unique garments, designed by JanSport founders Murray McCory and Jan Lewis, which retailers were able to see and try on. Hobb’s has established relationships with domestic sewers that can provide finished goods production services to retailers wishing to carry private label items in their stores.
“Besides providing a superior lightweight insulation for outdoor clothing, RamTect Thin creates a vibrant ‘Made in the USA’ marketing message. Also, U.S. apparel brands and retailers are now requiring higher quality products and shorter lead times that only American-made products can provide, a trend we wholeheartedly support,” says Carey Hobbs, owner of Hobbs Bonded Fibers.