Since 1988, Ortovox, a brand specializing in functional mountain equipment and clothing, has believed in the use of wool, a natural fiber capable of providing thermoregulating performance to lovers of alpine sports.
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Ortovox, natural fibers guide research and development
This choice, which has become commonplace in the outdoor industry over time, has guided the company’s research into the development of fabrics and padding that use natural fibers in an innovative and sustainable way, with a focus on performance and comfort.
Wool, renowned for its resistance to odors and bacterial growth, is a hygroscopic fiber (capable of absorbing moisture and gradually releasing it), resistant and elastic, whose microscopic structure is capable of trapping tiny pockets of air, ensuring effective insulation.
Consistent with this approach, Ortovox introduced Swisswool in 2010, a technology that uses wool from high-altitude sheep in the Swiss Alps. The exceptional thermal properties of this fiber and the high level of comfort it provides are also beneficial for the pastoral activities of that Alpine region. Building on this experience, 15 years later, Ortovox is launching two new innovative insulation technologies: Metawool® and Downwool® by Grüezi Bag.
Ortovox has focused on wool since its first apparel collection launched in 1988, with a completeness and continuity that is unique in the outdoor scene. This choice is also linked to the constant search for innovative materials. With these two new technologies, we are once again affirming our role as a leader in technical products made from natural materials.
Christine Brien, head of material di Ortovox
METAWOOL® Merino wool insulation from Bavarian sheep
Merino wool, traditionally used in baselayer production, is offered here as a padding material. Metawool® padding is made of 80% merino wool from sheep raised in southern Germany and 20% polylactic acid fibers obtained from fermented corn. The insulation made with this fiber combination performs well in terms of thermoregulation even when wet, is windproof, has a high thermal coefficient in relation to its minimal weight (90g/m2), and is stable and robust even under heavy loads. The merino wool used to make Metawool® is the result of the Locwool project, a project for the production and marketing of wool from Bavarian and Baden-Württemberg breeders/producers. The use of this wool by Ortovox highlights its commitment to sustainable production, with traceable materials and a focus on circularity.
DOWNWOOL® BY GRÜEZI BAG special blend for unique warmth
Grüezi Bag’s Downwool insulation combines the renowned properties of down with those of wool, resulting in unique thermal performance. The blend, made of 70% RDS down and 30% alpine wool, creates a lightweight and incredibly warm insulation that maintains its performance even when wet, thanks to the wool’s hygroscopic properties.
Ortoxov – Ravine Metawool 90 Jacket
When the temperature drops and we face deep snow, the Ravine Metawool 90 Jacket proves to be a reliable companion for the most challenging off-piste excursions. This is thanks to the 90 g/m² Metawool insulation, composed of 80% merino wool from Bavarian farms, which guarantees constant warmth even on the coldest days. The extremely durable and windproof outer shell is made of 100% recycled polyamide and offers stable protection even in rapidly deteriorating weather conditions. The jacket also boasts an excellent weight-to-warmth ratio and compresses easily, taking up very little space in your backpack. Designed for those who love to push the limits on free-touring excursions, the Ravine Metawool 90 Jacket is embellished with functional details and an original all-over quilting. Suitable for freeride touring and recommended for a wide range of high-altitude activities, it is available in specific versions for women and men.
Weight
Women: 469 g
Men: 506 g
Colors
Woman: white tea, deep ocean, lush lavender
Man: wild cumin, black raven, blue note
Materials
• Main material: 100% recycled polyamide
• Filling: 80% merino virgin wool + 20% polylactide (bioplastic)
• Lining: 100% recycled polyamide
Price
340,00 euro
Ortovox – Downwool 270 Jacket
With the Downwool 270 Jacket, Ortovox introduces the warmest model in its collection, designed for extreme conditions, high-intensity activities, and cold, humid environments. The thermal heart is the hybrid DownWool® by Grüezi Bag insulation, made of 70% RDS-certified down and 30% wool. This synergy allows the wool to absorb moisture, allowing the down to increase its fill volume by up to 30%, significantly increasing insulation even when sweating or in wet conditions. At the same time, the combination of fibers facilitates moisture dispersion, preventing the risk of overheating. The Pertex® Quantum Pro outer fabric, made of 100% recycled polyamide, is windproof and water-repellent, offering excellent weather protection. Ideal for freeriding and suitable for numerous high-altitude activities, the Downwool 270 Jacket is available in women’s and men’s specific models.
Weight
Women: 600 g
Men: 677 g
Colors
Woman: green acid, lush lavender, dark chestnut
Man: dark arctic grey, wild cumin, blue note
Materials
• Main material: 100% polyamide
• Filling: 70% duck down (90% down, 10% feathers) + 30% wool
• Inserts: 50% recycled wool + 30% recycled polyester + 20% polyester
• Lining: 100% recycled polyamide
Price
500,00 euro
