Polartec® Neoshell® – the brand's first waterproof, breathable fabric - has been voted as the outstanding product innovation for the outdoors in the last 12 months by the Outdoor Writers and Photographers Guild panel of outdoor experts.

The Guild represents some of the top media professionals specialising in sustainable outdoor activities and the environment. This year's panel of judges included Chris Townsend, Judy Armstrong, Graham Thompson and Tom Hutton.

Chris Townsend, who tests gear for TGO, said of Polartec® Neoshell®: “[it's] the most breathable membrane I've ever tried.” While Graham Thompson, Trail, said: “A bigger story than the other new fabrics as it's available in different weights and fabrics.”

Roly Smith, president of the Outdoor Writers and Photographers Guild, said: “This year the panel of judges were unanimous in their decision to give the award to Polartec® Neoshell®. Most membranes work because the heat and moisture inside creates pressure that then tries to force its way out; but the new Polartec® Neoshell® works slightly differently, allowing the air outside to 'pull' the moisture out. It was this innovative approach – and, of course, the resulting end product – that so impressed the judges.”

Eric Yung, Polartec's European Marketing Manager said: “We've been researching this product for the last five years and we think that our attention to detail has really paid off. The response to Polartec® Neoshell® has been phenomenal and the feedback we're getting from users is incredibly positive.”

Polartec® Neoshell® will hit the high street this autumn and can be found in the following garments: Rab's Neo Stretch collection; Mammut's Gipfelgrat collection; Marmot's Zion jacket; The North Face® Jammu jacket [US only]; 66NORTH® Snaefell collection; Montura Supernova jacket; Westcomb's Apoc jacket and Vaude's Alpamayo jacket.

Learn more about Neoshell at www.polartec.com