At the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships in Val d'Isere this year, 25 medals out of a total of 30 went to athletes wearing race suits made of Eschler fabrics. The Swiss knit fabrics specialist says it equips most countries with technical, aerodynamic fabrics for their race garments.

While the Swiss Ski Team topped the overall medal table in Val d'Isere, Eschler climbed the podium even more ofte. The warp and weft knit manufacturer, based in Bühler/Appenzell, said it claimed 8 gold, 9 silver and 8 bronze medals.

The company says that most of the national teams race in suits made of Eschler fabrics and the technical materials used for the racing garments only differ slightly for each team, yet the product development process involves extensive research. Eschler says that the fabrics have to provide a minimum of wind resistance, yet at the same time fulfil the strict air permeability safety standard set by the FIS.

In close collaboration with the Swiss Ski Team and garment sponsor Descente, Eschler CEO Peter Eschler has developed a special laminate. "The World Championships in Val d'Isere was a crucial test for us, especially for the long-term objective of Vancouver 2010. We have further optimized the suits aerodynamics taking inspiration from nature. We don't want to reveal too many details, but, of course, we're excited about the great success by the Swiss skiers."

About Eschler

Founded in 1927, Christian Eschler AG has quickly advanced to become one of the world's leading manufacturers of functional knit fabrics. Today, the family owned business, based in Bühler/Switzerland, is managed by the third Eschler generation and specialises in sportswear, work wear, technical textiles and lingerie. Eschler has committed itself to an environmentally friendly production cycle by becoming a bluesign® system partner (www.bluesign.com). The independent bluesign® standard meets strict requirements regarding sustainability, health and safety as well as resource efficiency.