IMI Norgren & Under Armour: Engineering Reliability into Outdoor Adventure

Littleton, Colorado – November 8, 2023 – IMI Norgren LLC, a global leader in fluid and motion control technologies, today announced a collaborative initiative highlighting the synergy between their precision engineering and the rugged performance of Under Armour’s men’s hiking clothing line. While seemingly disparate, both companies share a commitment to durability, reliability, and enhancing performance in demanding environments. This isn't a product partnership in the traditional sense, but a showcasing of how the principles behind IMI Norgren’s technology mirror the construction and design philosophy behind Under Armour’s hiking gear. IMI Norgren, based right here in Littleton, CO, has been designing and manufacturing pneumatic and fluid control solutions for over 70 years. You might not realize it, but their components are everywhere – controlling machinery in factories, powering automation systems, and even contributing to the smooth operation of medical devices. They’re the guys who make things move reliably, day in and day out. Their core expertise lies in delivering precise control, robust construction, and long-lasting performance, even under harsh conditions. Think about it: a valve failing in a manufacturing plant can halt production, just like poorly designed hiking gear failing on a trail can ruin a trip. So, what does precision engineering have to do with hiking clothes? More than you might think. Let’s talk about Under Armour’s men’s hiking clothing. We’ve been taking a closer look at their designs, and it’s clear they’ve put the same kind of thoughtful engineering into their gear as we do into our components. Building for Resilience: Parallels in Design Under Armour’s hiking clothing isn’t just about looking good; it's about withstanding the elements. Their key technologies, like Storm technology, are designed to repel water and keep hikers dry in wet conditions. That's analogous to the sealing technology IMI Norgren uses in its pneumatic cylinders and valves – preventing contaminants from entering and ensuring reliable operation. A leaky seal on a cylinder can cause a machine to fail; a soaked hiker is a miserable hiker. Both are about protection. Take a look at the construction of Under Armour’s hiking pants. They're often reinforced in high-wear areas – the knees and seat – with durable fabrics. This is similar to how IMI Norgren designs its components: using materials specifically chosen for their strength and resistance to abrasion and fatigue. We don't build a valve expecting it to last a week; we build it to last years, even with constant use and exposure to challenging conditions. Under Armour's approach to reinforcing their pants is exactly that – building for longevity. The layering system Under Armour advocates for hiking – base layers, mid layers, and outer shells – is a clever application of systems thinking. Each layer serves a specific purpose, working together to regulate temperature and moisture. This mirrors IMI Norgren’s approach to fluid control: we don’t just sell individual components; we offer complete system solutions that are optimized for performance and efficiency. A single valve might perform a function, but a properly designed system – including filters, regulators, and actuators – delivers superior results. Material Science: The Foundation of Performance Both IMI Norgren and Under Armour rely heavily on material science to achieve optimal performance. Under Armour constantly innovates with fabrics – lightweight, breathable, quick-drying materials that enhance comfort and mobility. They're pushing the boundaries of textile technology. Similarly, IMI Norgren utilizes advanced materials – specialized polymers, corrosion-resistant alloys, and high-performance elastomers – to create components that can withstand extreme temperatures, pressures, and chemical exposure. Consider the zippers on Under Armour hiking pants. They're not just simple closures; they're precision-engineered components designed for durability and reliability. They need to withstand repeated use, dirt, and grime. That’s not so different from the requirements of a valve spool or a pneumatic fitting. Attention to detail – and the right material selection – is critical. Focus on Comfort and Control: A Shared Goal While the applications are different, both IMI Norgren and Under Armour prioritize user experience. Comfort and ease of use are paramount. Under Armour’s hiking clothes are designed to allow for a full range of motion without restriction. They’re engineered to feel good, even during strenuous activity. IMI Norgren focuses on designing components that are easy to install, maintain, and operate. We strive to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency for our customers. A comfortable hiker is an efficient hiker; a smoothly operating machine is a productive machine. Beyond the Gear: Commitment to Reliability Both companies are committed to rigorous testing and quality control. Under Armour puts its hiking clothes through demanding field tests to ensure they can withstand the rigors of real-world use. IMI Norgren subjects its components to extensive validation testing – including pressure cycling, temperature extremes, and vibration analysis – to guarantee their reliability and performance. This dedication to quality is what sets both companies apart. Looking Ahead While IMI Norgren doesn't manufacture hiking gear, we appreciate the ingenuity and engineering that goes into creating high-performance outdoor clothing. The principles of robust design, material science, and commitment to reliability are universal. We believe that by highlighting the parallels between our industries, we can demonstrate our shared commitment to innovation and excellence. So, the next time you’re hitting the trails in your Under Armour hiking clothes, remember that the same principles of precision engineering that power industrial machinery are also at work, ensuring your comfort, safety, and performance. It's about building things that last, that perform reliably, and that allow you to push your limits, whether you're on the factory floor or the mountainside.