Milliken & Company Earns an R&D 100 Award
Milliken & Company announced that its advanced fabric, Polartec Power Shield Pro, has received an R&D 100 Award. The recognition highlights Milliken’s ongoing work in textile innovation—designing fabrics that handle changing weather while still feeling comfortable to wear. It speaks to performance you can rely on: durable construction, strong weather protection, and breathability that helps the wearer stay comfortable.
What Is Polartec Power Shield Pro?
Polartec Power Shield Pro is a high-performance, waterproof fabric built for outdoor and active wear. It’s found in jackets, pants, gloves, and vests—gear that has to move, breathe, and stand up to the elements. The fabric pairs robust water resistance with notable breathability, a combination that’s made it a favorite among outdoor professionals and enthusiasts. In short, it’s designed for people who head out in all kinds of conditions and want protection without feeling stifled.
Why the R&D 100 Awards Matter
Often called the “Oscars of Innovation,” the R&D 100 Awards honor impactful advances in science and technology each year. Milliken’s recognition underscores the technical strength of the Polartec brand and the company’s commitment to pushing the textile industry forward. The award signals that Power Shield Pro isn’t just a good idea on paper—it stands out in a competitive field of innovations.
What Milliken’s Leaders Are Saying
Halsey Cook, Milliken’s president and CEO, shared that the team is honored to receive the R&D 100 Award for Polartec Power Shield Pro. He pointed to the dedication behind the platform, noting that the work reflects a focus on building high-performance textiles that keep pace with customers’ changing needs.
Innovation as a Core Practice
Allen Jacoby, EVP and president of Milliken’s Textile Business, emphasized the company’s culture of innovation. He highlighted that the recognition reflects both Milliken’s technical capabilities and the passion of its teams. That focus drives the company to aim higher—translating ideas into fabrics that set a high bar for performance.
From 1865 to Today: A Brief Milliken History
Milliken traces its roots to 1865, when it began as a small distributor of woolen fabrics. Over time, it evolved into a global leader in performance and protective textiles. The through line is adaptability: meeting new demands, learning from the field, and turning that knowledge into better materials. The company’s path shows a steady push to expand what fabric can do.
How Polartec Has Evolved
Polartec, a key brand in the Milliken family, has long pursued advances that exceed industry standards. Its portfolio focuses on real-world performance—warmth when you need it, breathability when you’re moving, and protective qualities such as fire resistance in demanding environments. Those attributes show up across performance, lifestyle, and military applications, reinforcing Polartec’s reputation as a trusted choice when conditions are tough and comfort still matters.
Committed to Sustainable Solutions
Performance isn’t Milliken’s only priority. The company also acknowledges its responsibility to sustainability, using innovative practices to deliver solutions that serve customers and wider communities. That approach shows up across a diverse set of businesses—textiles, flooring, chemical, and healthcare—where integrity and practical problem-solving guide day-to-day work. The aim is consistent: make materials that perform, and do so in a way that supports long-term value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the R&D 100 Award signify?
It’s an annual recognition of notable innovations in science and technology, often referred to as the “Oscars of Innovation.” For Milliken and Polartec Power Shield Pro, it signals that the fabric stands out for its technical merit and real-world impact.
What sets Polartec Power Shield Pro apart?
It combines robust water resistance with strong breathability and durability. Built for jackets, pants, gloves, and vests, it balances weather protection and comfort for people who stay active outdoors.
How long has Milliken been in operation?
Milliken was founded in 1865, starting as a small distributor of woolen fabrics. Since then, it has grown into a leader in performance and protective textiles.
Where are Polartec fabrics used?
They appear in outdoor apparel, lifestyle clothing, and military gear. The brand focuses on qualities such as warmth, breathability, and fire resistance across these applications.
Does Milliken prioritize sustainability?
Yes. Milliken emphasizes sustainable innovation and practices that benefit customers and communities, with work spanning textiles, flooring, chemical, and healthcare sectors.
