A jacket needs to do “more”

August 30, 2018

adidas Originals launches a GORE-TEX jacket with the patented packable technology KARKAJ in collaboration with Conroy Nachtigall

ELKTON, MD, – adidas Originals has introduced a GORE-TEX jacket with the patented packable technology KARKAJ designed in partnership with functional clothing pioneer Conroy Nachtigall. adidas Originals wanted to create a lightweight, packable, reliable solution that protects from the weather by using the waterproof-breathable GORE-TEX product technology. The outcome is a light-weight, packable jacket with a patented packable technology named KARKAJ –after the ‘quiver’. The collection launches on September 6 in Berlin, Chicago, Hong Kong, London, Mexico City, Milan, Moscow, New York, Paris, Seoul, Shanghai and Tokyo.

When starting the project packability was identified as a key topic to examine for FW18 in the modern city life. The challenge was the search for a more intuitive approach to converting a jacket, and to be able to do it easily while “on the go.” To achieve this, adidas Originals partnered with designer Conroy Nachtigall. 

“The partnership of adidas Originals and Conroy for this project was an ideal match: adidas Originals has a rich history and an enormous archive to take inspiration from, while Conroy has a strong background in designing and developing technical minimalistic apparel. Both parties come from a different angle but the passion for making credible, reliable and excellent products unites them and sets the stage for a great collaboration,” says adidas Originals Senior Product Manager Peter Schwirtz. 

The unique shape of KARKAJ was the result of a transformation process. The technology captures what this collaboration stands for – transformation and pushing boundaries. KARKAJ, as such, allows the wearer to easily convert the garment into an effective and carry-able accessory. This enables the wearer to adapt to the diversity of weather conditions and shift the shape of the pieces to maximize utility.

Conroy Nachtigall says, “The design came out of breaking down different steps. There were several ideas at play but the process also involves challenging each of those same ideas. Is it easy? Is it intuitive? Can it be done while in motion?”

Using waterproof-breathable GORE-TEX product technology that features the brand´s with the GUARANTEE TO KEEP YOU DRY™ promise was set as an imperative for this project. Peter Schwartz adds, “The GORE-TEX membrane is probably one of the most fascinating material that I have come across. Offering a ´guarantee to keep you dry´ can only be done if you are super confident in what you are doing. For me it is one of the most diverse products available.”

About Conroy Nachtigall, Designer
Conroy Nachtigall created the VEILANCE range for Arc’teryx in 2009. The new, urban line took the advanced technical know-how of the brand and built a functionally-focused menswear designed to perform in the city.

About W. L. Gore & Associates
Gore Fabrics Division revolutionized the outerwear industry with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX® fabric more than 40 years ago and remains a leading innovator of performance apparel. Gore fabrics products provide comfort and protection in challenging environments and in everyday life, enabling wearers to safely and confidently achieve and experience more. From hiking in downpours to military operations and fighting fires, Gore’s deep understanding of consumer and industry needs drives development of products with meaningful performance advantages. www.goretex.com

Media Contact
Dave Simpson
Verde Brand Communications
dave@verdepr.com