Low-pilling technical fleece

Low-pilling fleece describes technical polar or micro fleece fabrics that achieve at least grade 4 (barely visible pilling balls) in the Martindale pilling test to ISO 12945-2, even after 2,000 to 7,000 rubs. This is reached by combining three factors: high-twist, long-staple polyester continuous filaments (145-300 t/m twist), aggressive re-shearing that removes short fibre ends at the mill, and an enzyme or silicone wash that seals remaining fibres.

Key branded qualities include Polartec Power Stretch, Polartec Micro (US ATCC 124 grade 5), Malden Mills Symmetry and Yamamoto Aquaguard Fleece. Prices range from 8 to 25 euros per m2 versus 3-6 euros for standard fleece. For workwear (uniforms, corporate) and children's clothing, this pilling level is often mandatory because standard fleece pills after just a few washes.

For workwear to DIN EN 14058 (cold protection), grade 4 is the practical minimum - corporate fleece stays in shape and appearance even after 50 industrial washes at 60 degrees. Combined with anti-odour treatments (Polygiene, HeiQ Fresh) and PFC-free DWR, this yields durable second-layer fabrics for softshells and half-zips.