180s and W.L. Gore Partner Innovations for US Soldiers

Baltimore, MD (August 30, 2007) 180s®, a brand committed to creating intelligently designed outdoor gear and accessories for men, women and children, has partnered with industry leader, W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc., makers of GORE-TEX® fabric, to provide the Combat Desert Jacket™ (CDJ) to the United States Marine Corps.

The CDJ is a lightweight, three-season, high performance jacket designed for versatility in the extreme weather conditions of Afghanistan and Iraq. Engineered specifically to protect the soldier from the elements and regulate body temperature, this jacket ensures maximum mobility for use with body armor and battle gear. 180s was awarded this multi-year contract in May, 2006.

These two Maryland based companies, 180s and W. L. Gore & Associates (Gore), pooled their knowledge of fabric, construction and design to develop one of the most versatile jackets in the military. “Working with an industry leader such as Gore on the fabric development of the CDJ program was a great honor for our brand,” said Lonnie Drosihn, VP of Product Research & Development at 180s. “We believe the innovative design, construction and use of GORE™ Military Fabrics exceeded the expectations of the USMC.” Mr. Drosihn added that “our continued goal is to develop innovative products that meet and/or exceed the requirements of our customers; whether they are used by the military, sportsmen or your everyday consumer.”

“The commitment to constant innovation links these two companies, and displays how building on the tradition of GORE-TEX® fabric, GORE™ Military Fabrics continue to play a vital role in the production of best-in-class protective clothing products for all branches of the U.S. Military,” said John Holcombe, Gore Program Manager. Since 1958, W. L. Gore & Associates, has developed products, which have set new standards in such diverse categories as high-performance outerwear, vascular repair, electronic cabling and membrane electrode assemblies. When it comes to critical gear and equipment, military forces have relied on products made with GORE™ Military Fabrics where it really counts—in the field.

Baltimore-based 180s revolutionized winter accessories with the introduction of the original behind-the-headâ„¢ ear warmer in 1995. The company continues to turn things upside down with numerous patented technologies used in gloves, apparel and eyewear. With distribution in retail channels from sporting goods to department stores, 180s’ award-winning designs allow customers to get out and do more. 180s. Always Out There.

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