The Future of FR Protection: Lakeland’s Complete Layering System
The movement is here – revolutionizing how industrial workers experience flame-resistant apparel. Lakeland’s high performance FR garments combine style, comfort, and technical excellence, delivering protection you can wear from the jobsite to a night out, to the gym, or while tackling weekend projects.
With more moisture-wicking FR fabric options than even the consumer sportswear market, Lakeland is raising the bar. Simply put – we’ve got you covered, and you have options.
What Does “High Performance” Mean in FR Apparel?
In the FR world, “high performance” isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a science. At its core, it refers to moisture wicking technology engineered into the fabric itself. This innovation, both over two decades ago to enhance athlete performance in extreme climates, now protects industrial workers by keeping them drier, as well as cooler in the heat and warmer in the cold.
The challenge? Not all “moisture-wicking” fabrics are created equal. Knowing the difference is critical to making the right choice for both comfort and safety.
A Quick History of Moisture-Wicking
Originally, moisture management relied on synthetic fibers like polyester treated with a chemical finish to help sweat spread and evaporate. The problem? That finish washed out over time, leaving the garment less effective.
Today, permanent moisture-wicking comes from blending hydrophobic fibers (moisture-repelling, such as modacrylic, aramid, and polyester) with hydrophilic fibers (moisture-absorbing, like rayon, cotton, and linen). This combination ensures the garment wicks and dries effectively for its entire lifespan – no coatings, no wash-out, no compromise.
The Science of the Optimal Blend
Independent testing process that the most effective moisture-wicking FR fabrics balance their fiber mix – ideally around 60% hydrophobic / 40% hydrophilic. Too much of one, and the performance suffers. It’s this balance that drives true high performance FR apparel.
Pro Tip: Don’t settle for vague claims. Always ask for the fiber blend and performance data. Lakeland offers full transparency – because informed workers are protected workers.
Weight Matters – But Not the Way You Think
A standard cotton t-shirt weighs about 5 ounces. Most FR fabrics for CAT 2 arc-rated garments weigh between 5.5-7 ounces. Without the right fiber blend, that extra weight just traps sweat, leaving you uncomfortable and distracted.
Lakeland’s lightweight, moisture-wicking FR layers deliver superior comfort without compromising protection – keeping you dry, mobile, and focused on the job.
The Next Generation of FR Protection
Lakeland’s complete FR layering system delivers unmatched protection, comfort, and performance – and we’re the only company offering a complete layering system in Hi-Vis. With athletic cuts, modern styling, and our advanced FuzeTM technology, you’ll stay odor free, cool, comfortable, and confident – no matter the conditions. To learn more about our new HPFR products, click here.
