The Innovation Behind Henri-Lloyd’s Dynamic Fabric

The marine industry has long relied on waterproof membranes treated with perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and other perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) to achieve high levels of water resistance. However, these chemicals are now widely recognised for their persistent environmental impact, as they do not break down in nature and accumulate over time, contaminating water sources and harming marine life. 

Henri-Lloyd’s Dri Pro fabric eliminates these harmful substances, using an advanced PFOA-free membrane that delivers elite waterproofing and breathability without the environmental cost. This ensures that our gear meets the most rigorous performance standards while reducing our ecological footprint. 

The Shift to C0 DWRs: Redefining Water Repellency 

DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coatings are essential for keeping sailors dry by preventing water from saturating the fabric. Traditional DWR treatments often contain long-chain perfluorinated compounds (C8 or C6), which pose serious environmental and health risks. 

Henri-Lloyd’s Dri Pro fabric utilises a cutting-edge C0 DWR treatment, completely free from fluorocarbons, making it the most sustainable solution available. Unlike older treatments that compromise performance when eliminating PFCs, our C0 DWR ensures superior water repellency, maintaining its effectiveness even after extensive use in saltwater conditions. 

Designing a fabric that balances sustainability, stretch, waterproofness, breathability and durability is no easy feat. Henri-Lloyd spent 18 months developing, testing, and perfecting the fabric for Dynamic, working in close collaboration with one of the most advanced textile mills in Japan. 

Out of over 100 fabric samples tested globally, only this mill was able to meet our extreme performance criteria for this range. Every element of the fabric - its 3-layer Dri Pro construction, 4-way panel stretch, and breathable membrane - was engineered to serve the needs of professional sailors facing the harshest conditions. 

To validate our fabric’s performance, it underwent four rounds of prototyping, with real-world testing conducted by elite sailors in high-stakes competitions like the World Championships TP52 circuit. Every detail was scrutinised and refined to ensure unparalleled freedom of movement, robust waterproofing (+20,000mm), breathability (+20,000 g/m²/24hr), and superior abrasion resistance. 

With the launch of our Dynamic range, Henri-Lloyd is bringing a marine industry-first fabric to professional sailors and performance-driven water enthusiasts worldwide. This innovation places us at the forefront of sustainable marine apparel, proving that performance and responsibility can go hand in hand. 

By pioneering the use of PFOA-free membranes and C0 DWR coatings in technical sailing apparel, we’re setting new standards for waterproof and breathable performance while taking crucial steps to protect the environment we depend on. 

This fabric isn’t just a breakthrough in sailing gear - it’s a testament to what’s possible when cutting-edge fabric technology meets uncompromising design. 

Henri-Lloyd: Engineering the Future of Sailing Apparel 

For over 60 years, Henri-Lloyd has been redefining marine performance wear, and with the Dri Pro fabric used in the Dynamic collection, we continue to lead the industry forward. Our commitment to innovation and sustainability ensures that every sailor, whether racing at the highest level or navigating challenging waters, has access to gear that is as conscious as it is capable. 

This is more than just a fabric. This is Dynamic Fabrication.