Advanced
& Performance
Materials for Custom Soft Goods
Advanced Materials for High-Performance Soft Goods
Specialized Materials for demanding Environments
AGORA works with specialized materials designed for demanding environments, regulated industries, and performance-critical applications. These materials are selected when standard textiles or plastics cannot deliver the required protection, durability, or environmental resistance.
Advanced materials support products that must manage heat, improve visibility, control static electricity, resist abrasion, or protect users and equipment in harsh conditions. By combining these materials with proven soft goods construction techniques, AGORA helps engineers and product teams develop solutions that perform reliably in the real world.
From thermal protection and arc-flash safety to ergonomic grip surfaces and moisture-managing textiles, advanced materials expand what is possible in soft goods design.
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Materials
Electrostatic Discharge materials are used to protect sensitive electronic components from static damage during handling, transportation, and field service. Static control is critical in electronics manufacturing environments where even small discharges can damage equipment.
These materials are commonly integrated into protective storage systems, field service kits, and equipment covers to reduce the risk of electrostatic discharge during transport and daily use.
Common Applications
- Available in a wide range of densities
- Breathable structures that support comfort and moisture management
- Energy absorption for impact protection
- Compatibility with cutting, forming, and lamination processes
Reflective Materials for Visibility & Safety
Typical Applications
- Waist belts
- Carry cases
- Wearable accessories for field use
Thermal Insulation Materials
Thinsulate™ Insulation
Thinsulate™ is a microfiber insulation known for its high thermal efficiency, breathability, and moisture resistance. The material delivers strong insulation performance while remaining lightweight and flexible.
This makes it well suited for products designed to protect electronics or equipment in cold environments.
Typical Applications
- Thermal boots for barcode scanners
- Insulated cases for portable printers
- Electronic device protection systems
High-Grip & Abrasion Resistant Fabrics
ToughTek® Grip Fabric
ToughTek® is a durable grip fabric engineered to maintain traction in wet, dry, hot, and cold conditions. The non-slip surface improves ergonomics in areas where users regularly handle or carry equipment.
Common Uses
- Shoulder straps
- Waist belts
- High-wear grip zones on bags and cases
Extreme Durability Materials
Hypalon® (CSM)
Hypalon is an engineered fabric designed for harsh environments where durability and environmental resistance are critical. It offers strong resistance to abrasion, chemicals, UV exposure, and temperature changes.
It is widely used in industrial, marine, and protective equipment applications.
Key Properties
- Excellent abrasion and weather resistance
- Chemical and flame resistance
- High strength and durability
- Resistance to hot and cold cracking
Spacer Fabrics (3D Textiles)
Spacer fabrics are three-dimensional textiles designed to improve airflow, comfort, and cushioning while maintaining structure. Their breathable construction allows heat and moisture to move away from the user or protected equipment.
Key Properties
- Enhanced airflow and breathability
- Compression resistance
- Lightweight comfort for wearable applications
AGORA Applications
- Freezer pouches
- RC3 printer cases
- Insulated RL4 systems
Thermal Barrier & Energy Management Materials
Reflective laminate fabrics are used to manage heat and improve thermal protection within soft goods products. These materials act as thermal barriers and help maintain stable internal temperatures in demanding environments.
Typical Applications
- Insulation systems
- Energy-saving products
- Thermal protection layers within cases and enclosures
Flame Resistant & Arc-Flash Protective Fabrics
Tecasafe®
Typical Uses
- Electrical safety equipment
- Flame resistant protective systems
- Industrial safety products
High-Temperature Protective Fabrics
Kombat® (Kevlar® & PBI Blends)
Kombat® is a thermal protective fabric engineered from blends of Kevlar® and PBI fibers. These materials provide strong protection in extreme heat environments and high-risk working conditions.
They are commonly used in applications where heat resistance and structural durability are essential.
Moisture-Managing Performance Fabrics
Coolmax®
Coolmax® is a performance fabric designed to move moisture away from the body while maintaining breathability and comfort. The fabric helps regulate temperature and manage sweat in wearable applications.
Coolmax is frequently used in wearable products where thermal comfort is important.
Key Characteristics
- Efficient moisture wicking
- Breathability and comfort
- Durable and easy to maintain
Additional Advanced Materials
AGORA also works with a range of emerging and specialized materials depending on program requirements. Material selection is driven by performance requirements, manufacturing compatibility, and the needs of the final product environment.
These May Include
- Aerogel-enhanced insulation for extreme thermal protection
- Phase change materials for temperature regulation
- Antimicrobial and anti-odor treated textiles
- EMI shielding fabrics for electronic protection
- Recycled performance textiles for sustainability initiatives
- TPU-coated stretch fabrics for sealed but flexible wearable systems
Design for demanding environments.