In outdoor gear, abrasion resistance is not a minor detail: it determines a garment’s ability to endure multiple seasons against rocks, straps, ski edges, or repeated movements. The Martindale test is the standard method to measure this resistance. At AYAQ, it guides the selection of recycled technical fabrics for pants like RIMO (men’s / women’s), NUNATAK (men’s / women’s), CLIFTON, LUGANO, as well as for softshell surfaces and high-exposure zones on hardshells. The goal: ensure each piece withstands the most demanding use.
1. What is the Martindale Test?
The Martindale test measures fabric abrasion resistance by subjecting a sample to repeated circular rubbing under pressure. The number of cycles before visible wear or holes appear determines the resistance rating. The higher the number, the better the fabric withstands prolonged friction.
In outdoor gear, this is a key indicator to anticipate:
- wear from backpacks or harnesses,
- rock abrasion,
- pressure from ski edges or crampons,
- body areas under constant movement (knees, seat, hips).
2. Why AYAQ Requires High Scores
AYAQ’s selected recycled technical fabrics are tested to achieve very high Martindale levels, matching the best premium virgin textiles. They are used on products facing the toughest conditions:
- RIMO (men’s / women’s): softshell pants designed for ski touring, summer alpinism, and challenging hiking.
- NUNATAK (men’s / women’s): uninsulated hardshell pants that resist abrasive snow, cold rain, and gear friction.
- hiking and trail running pants such as VERNAGO (men’s / women’s), CLIFTON, LUGANO, or TERLAGO (men’s / women’s).
- RAVEN (men’s / women’s): softshell with windproof front and highly breathable back, requiring a balance of lightness and durability.
At this level, abrasion resistance is essential to guarantee truly durable apparel.
3. Direct Impact on Field Performance
A fabric with a high Martindale rating offers concrete benefits:
- real longevity: the garment maintains its structure over seasons,
- enhanced protection: reduced risk of holes or damage in exposed areas,
- thermal stability: fabric that doesn’t wear prematurely retains windproof and water-repellent properties,
- secure movement: stable pants or jackets enable precise gestures in alpinism or skiing.
Field feedback on Vincent Defrasne and Mike Horn confirms that friction zones—knees, thighs, hips, shoulders—are the most stressed over consecutive days. A fabric rated for thousands of Martindale cycles is therefore indispensable.
4. Strong Alignment with Recycled Fabrics and Sympatex Membrane
AYAQ’s recycled technical fabrics must support the Sympatex membrane—one of the market’s top performers (52,000 Schmerbers, RET < 12)—making mechanical resistance critical. A weak fabric would reduce the garment’s overall effectiveness.
In pants like NUNATAK (men’s / women’s) and BATURA (insulated version), Martindale resistance ensures the membrane stays protected under heavy stress. The same applies to softshells RIMO (men’s / women’s) and RAVEN (men’s / women’s), where prolonged abrasion is frequent.
5. 100% European Manufacturing: Traceability and Consistency
AYAQ’s technical fabrics are developed and woven in Italy, France, Germany, and Portugal. This proximity enables:
- strict quality control on Martindale cycles,
- optimized recycled fabric blends,
- balanced resistance, weight, and breathability,
- genuine durability for apparel designed to last multiple years.
6. Why Martindale is Central to AYAQ’s Philosophy
Abrasion resistance determines the lifespan of outdoor garments. At AYAQ, pants or jackets must perform year-round—in snow, rock, forest, or icy wind. This requires fabrics that withstand friction without losing technical function.
The Martindale test is thus more than an indicator: it is a cornerstone that enables AYAQ to design a minimalist yet durable wardrobe, supporting explorers across multiple seasons without compromise.
