An AYAQ fleece is engineered to withstand repeated mountain use: layering, abrasion from carrying a pack, temperature fluctuations, and continuous moisture management. KOKANEE, designed for performance and moisture wicking, and AROLLA, warmer with a napped 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 warmth. Aggressive washing can crush this structure.
- Machine wash cold or 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 softener 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 structure.
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 fluff cycle without heat.
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 necessary, use a light pass on slightly damp garment at very low temperature, avoiding pressure.
4. Care That Extends Performance
AYAQ fleece jackets are made with durable materials and precise construction: seam stability, volume retention, pilling resistance, and moisture management 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 its core value: a balance of warmth, lightness, and moisture management. With gentle washing, controlled drying, and no harsh agents, the fleece retains its breathability and comfort season after season—from the Jura to high altitude.