| What it is | Brand of lightweight technical fabrics |
| Used as | Shell/lining for jackets, bags, shells |
| Balances | Weight, breathability, durability |
| Families | Quantum, Shield, Equilibrium, Diamond Fuse |
Pertex is a brand of lightweight, high-performance technical fabrics widely used as the face and lining fabrics of insulated jackets, sleeping bags, windshells, and rain shells. Its fabric families balance low weight, breathability, durability, and weather resistance — from airy windproof fabrics to downproof shells — making Pertex a common name in lightweight outdoor apparel.
The Pertex families
Includes downproof Quantum, waterproof Shield, breathable Equilibrium, and tough Diamond Fuse.
Frequently asked questions
What is Pertex?
Pertex is a fabric brand specializing in lightweight, high-performance technical textiles. Rather than a single material, it's a range of fabric families used by many outdoor brands for the outer and lining fabrics of insulated jackets, sleeping bags, wind shells, and rain shells, chosen for their low weight and tuned performance.
What are the main Pertex fabric families?
Key families include Pertex Quantum (very lightweight, downproof shell fabrics), Pertex Shield (waterproof-breathable laminates), Pertex Equilibrium (breathable, moisture-managing fabrics for active use), and Pertex Diamond Fuse (lightweight fabrics with boosted tear and abrasion resistance). Each targets a different balance of weight, weather protection, and durability.
Is Pertex waterproof?
It depends on the family. Pertex Shield fabrics are waterproof-breathable laminates, while lines like Quantum and Equilibrium are lightweight, breathable, often wind- and water-resistant fabrics rather than fully waterproof shells. Check the specific Pertex fabric used in a product for its exact weather performance.
Sources
- Pertex fabrics — Pertex
- Lightweight fabrics — The Mountaineers