Thanks to 3M™ for inviting us to join their apparel technical workshop with guest speaker Professor Dahua Shou from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University in Hong Kong. The workshop focused on how 3M™’s innovative material solutions can be applied across the first, mid, and outer layer, allowing garments to be adapted for different application scenarios, seasons, and temperatures. 

Topics included:

• 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material: Enhances visibility for safety, athletic, and lifestyle wear. It is composed of wide-angle, exposed, retroreflective lenses bonded to a durable fabric backing.
• 3M™ Scotchgard™ Protector: Repels liquid, spills and stains to preserve appearance and resilience of textile-based surfaces. 
• 3M™ Thinsulate™ Insulation: a synthetic alternative to down, ideal for outwear, accessories, gloves and bedding. 

Here are our key takeaways from the workshop on how Scotchlite™ Reflective Material, Scotchgard™ Protector, and Thinsulate™ Insulation can be applied to garments to create a complete 'inside-to-outside' layering system. 

1. First Layer (Base Layer) Solutions

Scotchgard™ Protector is Ideal for base layers. It offers moisture-wicking and stain release properties, keeping the wearer dry and comfortable during sports and activities.

• For Light Exercise (Running, Badminton): Wool t-shirts and tank tops featuring 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material and 3M™ Scotchgard™ Protector. 

2. Mid-Layer Solutions

Suitable for consumers seeking lightweight, packable warmth with DWR protection. It offers easy care and wash durability, without the disadvantages of traditional down.

Application Scenarios:

• Urban & Outdoor (-5℃ to 15℃)
  
  • Products: Scotchlite™ Reflective Material, Scotchgard™ Protector, Thinsulate™Insulation
  • Use: Lightweight, breathable jackets with dynamic warmth. Ideal for daily commuting, urban running, hiking, and casual walks year-round.
• Outdoors & Harsh Weather Conditions (-10℃ to 10℃)
  
  • Products: Scotchlite™ Reflective Material, Scotchgard™ Protector, Thinsulate™Insulation
  • Use: Heavier insulated jackets for colder conditions.

Outer Layer Solutions

Ideal for performance outer layers in all scenarios, offering protection in both dry and wet weather. These designs feature DWR and high breathability.

• Urban & Outdoor ( (0℃ ~ 25℃)
  
  • Products: Scotchlite™ Reflective Material, Scotchgard™ Protector, Thinsulate™Insulation
  • Use:  For lightweight, year-round waterproof jackets. 
• Outdoors & Harsh Weather Conditions 

. Storm & Snow (-10℃ ~ 10℃)

• Products: 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material, Scotchgard™ Protector, Thinsulate™ Insulation.
• Use: Storm and snow jackets designed for the harshest weather conditions.

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About J-LONG

J-Long was one of the first authorized distributors and converters of 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material in Asia. Today, J-Long stands as the largest distributor of 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material in the world.

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