Northface teams with Japanese startup to create spider silk moon parka

Re:Northface teams with Japanese startup to create spider si... by saiya-jin on Wednesday November 11, 2015 @03:52AM (#10545520)

Anybody has a clue what for the synthetic spider material would be used? I presume on the outer surface because of its durability, but you still need membrane ala Goretex below it to maintain waterproof & relatively breathable qualities, if its for outdoor activities and not just walking around the town. Haven't seen any details in articles, and can't play video at work :(

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Re:Northface teams with Japanese startup to create spider si... by richmarr on Wednesday November 11, 2015 @04:59AM (#10545783)

Yep, from the video it looks like the outer shell.

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Re:Northface teams with Japanese startup to create spider si... by borkt on Wednesday November 11, 2015 @08:49AM (#10546609)

Goretex or even waterproof fabric is not necessary in many alpine situations where this jacket could be used. A lot of down filled insulating garments do not have any waterproof fabric as it is and instead people prefer to just throw a shell over them if there is any precip.

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Re:Northface teams with Japanese startup to create spider si... by saiya-jin on Wednesday November 11, 2015 @10:23AM (#10547064)

Ah, for down application of course, didn't catch that part. There you want just as windproof/everything resistant as possible, and when it's too hot, you open/put it down.

Would be interesting to see comparison of actual benefits compared to current high tech fabrics used, all high-fill lightweight down stuff has some nanotech fabric to keep it light & durable.

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