What is the name of the waterproof breathable fabric technology The North Face introduced in 2019? The North Face introduced its FUTURELIGHT waterproof breathable fabric technology in 2019.
FUTURELIGHT was designed as a waterproof, breathable membrane for outerwear. The North Face says it uses nanospinning technology to create a very fine structure that blocks liquid water while allowing air and moisture vapor to pass through.
That combination addresses a central problem in shell clothing: a jacket must keep rain and snow out without trapping all the heat and perspiration produced during activity. FUTURELIGHT was promoted as a more breathable alternative to conventional waterproof membranes, especially for active mountain use.
FUTURELIGHT is a technology name, not the name of a general fabric category. It is therefore easy to confuse with GORE-TEX, Polartec, or the company’s older HyVent technology. Those names refer to different branded materials or systems, even though some serve overlapping outdoor purposes.
The brand stylizes the name as FUTURELIGHT™, and the technology has appeared in jackets, pants, footwear, and other products. Its 2019 launch marked a major material push by The North Face.