Pertex Explained
In brief: Pertex is a family of lightweight technical fabrics, not a single membrane, used widely in down jackets, windshells and lightweight waterproofs. Different Pertex lines do different jobs: Quantum is a light, downproof shell fabric (not waterproof), while Pertex Shield is the waterproof-breathable line. Founded in Lancashire in 1979, the brand is now owned by Mitsui of Japan.
What Pertex actually is
Pertex is one of the most common names you will see inside lightweight outdoor kit, but it is important to understand that Pertex is a family of fabrics rather than one waterproof membrane. The brand specialises in lightweight, tightly woven nylon and polyester fabrics engineered for specific jobs: being windproof, being downproof, being light and fast-drying, or being waterproof. Which Pertex you have depends entirely on the line named on the label.
A short history
Pertex was created in Lancashire in 1979, with roots at Perseverance Mills, and built its reputation on fine, lightweight woven fabrics that punched above their weight. After the mill's liquidation in the mid-2000s the brand passed into Japanese ownership, and Pertex is now owned by the Mitsui group of Japan. Through those changes it has remained a go-to supplier of lightweight performance fabrics for outdoor brands worldwide.
The main Pertex lines
The two names you will meet most are Quantum and Shield, and they are very different. Pertex Quantum is a light, tightly woven shell fabric prized for down jackets and lightweight clothing because it is downproof, meaning it stops insulating feathers from poking through, while staying light and breathable. Quantum is not waterproof. Pertex Shield, by contrast, is the waterproof-breathable line, a fabric with a coating or membrane that does keep rain out, used in lightweight waterproof jackets. There are further lines for wind resistance and specific performance needs, but the Quantum-versus-Shield distinction is the one that catches people out: a Quantum down jacket will wet through in rain, whereas a Shield jacket is built to keep you dry.
Why brands choose Pertex
Pertex fabrics are popular because they let designers save weight without giving up function. A down jacket needs a shell that is light, downproof and pleasant to wear; Quantum delivers that. A packable waterproof needs a light fabric that still keeps rain out; Shield delivers that. By picking the right Pertex line for the job, brands get a known, trusted fabric tuned to the garment's purpose, which is why the name appears across so much lightweight kit.
Caring for Pertex
Care depends on the line. Lightweight Quantum down-jacket shells should be washed gently following the down garment's instructions, keeping any water-repellent finish topped up so the face does not soak. Waterproof Shield garments are cared for like any waterproof-breathable shell: wash when dirty, re-proof the DWR when beading fades, and reactivate with gentle heat. Always check the specific garment, because a Pertex label spans very different fabrics.
Pertex at OD's Designer Clothing
Pertex turns up in some of the lightest, most packable pieces we stock. If a jacket lists a Pertex fabric and you are not sure whether it is windproof, downproof or actually waterproof, the team can read the line for you so you know exactly what protection you are buying.