Technological innovations in textiles by Horse Pilot – Marseille Innovation

Infrared revolution in riding clothing by Horse Pilot

By using ceramic fibres that absorb and release far infrared radiation, the equestrian clothing brand is launching a new ultra-technical range that improves recovery and tone.

 

Until then, we knew the pleasant enveloping properties of infrared radiation used on high-end radiators. These invisible light waves now appear in the design of clothes with surprising characteristics: body warming, but also fluidification of blood circulation, reduction of lactic acid responsible for cell engorgement after sports effort, or reduction of muscle spasms.

 

Infrared is electromagnetic radiation located to the left of the rainbow, in wavelengths from 0.76 to 1000 microns. At the end of the spectrum, far infrared is the one of the three bands (after short and medium) that emit the most energy. The principle on the human body is known: in contact with the body, the waves resonate with the agitating water molecules. Their friction heats up the cells, which in turn transmits heat described by experts as “soft and uniform” throughout the body.

 

To domesticate these properties in a garment, chemist and geologist Jacques Casper had the idea of using fine ceramic particles known for their ability to reflect infrared radiation. The process developed is operated by the Vosges-based technical textile manufacturer HT Concept. It mixes about thirty oxides at 1200°C, such as zircon, titanium and tourmaline. “This polymer matrix is then added to a polyurethane slurry in proportions that give our membranes revolutionary qualities,” explains Thierry Heim, the company’s president.

 

Horse Pilot is the first manufacturer to use this membrane in horse riding.

“We want to incorporate extra intelligence into clothing, as is already the case in other extreme disciplines such as skiing. Riding is a demanding sport that requires commitment and determination. A garment can facilitate this objective by freeing the rider’s movements.

 

In addition to its ergonomic design designed around the position of the rider in action, the ceramic jacket provides a little heat (between 0.5 and 0.8°C) and stimulates circulation, a source of better muscle tone and recovery efficiency.

 

The Horse Pilot team will be present at the Grande Semaine de Fontainebleau (25 August to 2 September), CCI4* les Étoiles de Pau (24 to 28 October), Equita’Lyon (31 October to 4 November), CHI de Genève (6 to 9 December) and Salon du Cheval de Paris (1 to 9 December) for all information and demonstration on the stand.