UNDERSTANDING THE GEAR YOU WEAR
LEVEL SIX EXHAUST PRO TECHNOLOGY (PART 1)
Level Six recently released a six-part video series exploring the Exhaust Pro, its new waterproof and breathable fabric technology. The series takes you behind the scenes of the project, diving into the development process, the people who helped bring it to life, and the thinking behind the fabric itself. In this two-part article, we’ll share all six videos to help you better understand the gear you wear and the technology that keeps you dry on the water.
The first video, Designing a Fabric That Doesn’t Kill You, focuses on one of the project’s biggest challenges: eliminating PFAS. Often referred to as « forever chemicals, » PFAS have long been used in technical outdoor fabrics because of their performance benefits. Moving away from them is far more complex than simply changing a coating; it requires rethinking materials and construction throughout the entire fabric system. With Exhaust Pro, Level Six has really pushed the boundaries of what is possible in paddlesports apparel.
The second video offers the designers’ perspective on Exhaust Pro. Olivia Pucci and Julie Bourgoin discuss how the fabric was developed, what they wanted it to feel like on the water, and the ideas behind the technology. They also break down some of the technical details, including the hydrophilic membrane (one of the unique features behind this technology), waterproofness, and breathability ratings.
The third video looks at the sustainability goals behind the project. With Exhaust Pro, Level Six shows that it is possible to build a high-performance paddlesports fabric that is both PFAS-free and made from 100% recycled materials. Their project and new gear line also reflect broader efforts to reduce environmental impact through choices such as recycled content and the elimination of plastic packaging.
Designed from the ground up for paddlesports, the Exhaust Pro technology combines high performance, PFAS-free construction, and 100% recycled materials in a fabric tailored to the demands of life on (white)water. Rather than adapting laminates originally developed for other outdoor sports, Level Six spent years developing a fabric system built specifically for paddlers. For those of us who spend our time on rivers, lakes, and coastlines, it’s an interesting look at how technical gear is evolving. If you care about the waterways you paddle and the impact the outdoor industry has on them, these videos offer a thoughtful glimpse into the challenges and possibilities of building cleaner gear.
For more info on the Exhaust Pro products, visit the Paddler Guide website.
For info on Level Six, visit their website.
