IMI Norgren & Under Armour Hike-Ready: Engineering Precision Meets Outdoor Performance

Littleton, CO – November 8, 2023 – IMI Norgren LLC, a global leader in pneumatic and fluid control solutions, might not be the first name that comes to mind when you think about hiking gear. But a recent collaboration with Under Armour, focusing on enhancing the durability and performance of their men’s hiking clothing line, is changing that perception. We’re not making the clothes, but we’re helping make them better – seriously. For over 70 years, IMI Norgren, based right here in Littleton, Colorado, has been a quiet powerhouse behind countless industrial applications. We build the components that keep things running smoothly – think manufacturing, automation, even medical equipment. It’s all about precision, reliability, and taking a beating. And, surprisingly, that expertise translates really well to what hikers need. “People think of us as a ‘behind the scenes’ company,” says Sarah Chen, a lead materials engineer at IMI Norgren. “But the core principles of what we do – pushing materials to their limits, ensuring things function flawlessly in tough environments – that’s universal. When Under Armour came to us looking to up their game in outdoor apparel, we were thrilled.” So what exactly did IMI Norgren do with Under Armour’s hiking clothing? It's not about stitching or designs, it’s about the materials that make those clothes last. Under Armour’s men’s hiking line, known for its comfort and moisture-wicking properties, already set a high bar. But in demanding conditions – scrambling over rocks, battling the elements, hauling a pack for miles – even the best materials can fail. “Under Armour wanted to address key wear points on their hiking pants and jackets – areas prone to abrasion and tearing,” explains David Lee, an IMI Norgren applications specialist. “We specialize in developing high-performance coatings and materials that can withstand extreme stress. We focused on enhancing the ripstop fabrics and reinforcement areas.” The core of IMI Norgren’s contribution lies in a proprietary polymer coating applied to select areas of the Under Armour hiking gear. This isn't your average waterproofing spray. It's a micro-layered coating developed in our Littleton facility, initially designed for industrial applications where components face constant friction, impact, and exposure to harsh chemicals. “Think about a pneumatic cylinder operating in a dusty factory,” says Chen. “It needs a coating that can resist abrasion, prevent corrosion, and maintain its integrity for thousands of cycles. That’s the level of durability we’re bringing to Under Armour’s hiking gear.” Specifically, IMI Norgren focused on reinforcing: Knee and Seat Areas of Hiking Pants: These areas endure the most friction from rocks, roots, and constant movement. The coating dramatically increases abrasion resistance, preventing tears and extending the lifespan of the pants. Shoulder and Elbow Areas of Hiking Jackets: Hikers often brush against trees, rock faces, and branches. The reinforced areas provide enhanced protection against tearing and punctures. Stress Points Around Pockets and Zippers: These are common failure points, especially when carrying heavy loads. The coating adds an extra layer of protection, preventing rips and tears. Reinforcement Patches: IMI Norgren worked with Under Armour to develop a new, more durable reinforcement patch material using a unique polymer blend – think tougher, lighter, and more flexible. But it’s not just about strength. IMI Norgren also collaborated with Under Armour to ensure the coating didn't compromise the breathability or comfort of the hiking gear. “One of the biggest challenges was balancing durability with flexibility,” explains Lee. “We didn’t want to add a rigid layer that would restrict movement or trap moisture. The coating is incredibly thin and flexible, so it moves with the fabric without sacrificing protection.” The result is a noticeable improvement in the overall durability and longevity of Under Armour’s men’s hiking clothing. Early testing has shown a significant increase in abrasion resistance and tear strength, meaning hikers can push their gear to the limit without worrying about premature failure. “We’ve seen a 30-40% increase in tear strength in some areas,” says Chen. “That translates to more miles on the trail, fewer repairs, and a longer lifespan for the gear. We’re incredibly proud of the collaboration.” The partnership between IMI Norgren and Under Armour highlights a growing trend in outdoor apparel – the integration of industrial-grade materials and technologies to enhance performance and durability. “It’s about leveraging our expertise in materials science to solve real-world problems,” says Lee. “We’re not just building components for factories anymore; we’re helping people push their limits in the great outdoors.” Under Armour’s men’s hiking clothing line featuring IMI Norgren’s enhanced durability is available now at select retailers and online at [Under Armour Website - Placeholder]. So next time you’re hitting the trail, remember that a little bit of industrial engineering might be helping you go further than ever before. And who knew a company specializing in pneumatic systems could help you conquer a mountain?