An AYAQ fleece is engineered to withstand repeated mountain use: layering, abrasion from backpacks, temperature fluctuations, and continuous moisture management. KOKANEE, designed for performance and moisture wicking, and AROLLA, warmer with a brushed finish, both rely on European technical fibers. Proper care is essential to maintain their thermal and breathable properties.
1. Washing: Gentle and Precise
Fleece is a structured fabric whose fibers create micro air pockets that provide insulation. Aggressive washing can crush this structure.
- Machine wash cold or on a delicate cycle at max 30°C.
- Sort colors and avoid mixing fleece with abrasive fabrics or garments with open zippers.
- Use a mild liquid detergent without fabric softeners or bleach.
- Do not use fabric softener: it clogs fibers and reduces breathability.
- Never use bleach, which weakens and discolors technical fibers.
- Do not dry clean: solvents degrade technical fabric structures.
These precautions preserve the loft, softness, and insulating capacity of the fabric.
2. Drying: Preserve Fiber Loft
Improper drying can deform fleece or compress fibers. For best results:
- Air dry, ideally flat to prevent distortion.
- If using a tumble dryer, select a low heat setting or air-only cycle.
Avoid direct heat sources (radiators, fireplaces) that can damage the material.
3. No Ironing: Protect Fabric Structure
Ironing is not recommended for technical fleece jackets. Direct heat can flatten or burn fibers, reducing their heat retention.
If ironing is absolutely necessary, use a light pass on slightly damp fabric at very low temperature, avoiding pressure.
4. Care That Extends Performance
AYAQ fleece jackets are made from durable materials with precise construction: seam stability, fiber loft retention, pilling resistance, and moisture management all depend on proper care.
Appropriate maintenance helps:
- preserve breathability (crucial for KOKANEE),
- maintain a stable fiber loft (key for AROLLA),
- extend the mechanical lifespan of the fabric.
Conclusion
Caring for an AYAQ fleece means protecting what makes it valuable: a balance of warmth, lightness, and moisture management. With gentle washing, controlled drying, and avoiding harsh agents, the fleece retains its breathability and comfort season after season—from the Jura to high altitude.