From updated standards to a new PPE fabric

Leeds based textile mill AW Hainsworth has received the King's Award for Enterprise in the Innovation category for Eco-Dry, a state of the art fabric for wildland firefighting clothing. The development began in 2013, when updated Australian safety standards called for more rigorous protection. Today, garments made with Eco-Dry are worn by up to 70% of Australian wildland firefighters.

Eco-Dry was created in close collaboration with garment manufacturer Stewart and Heaton and with Australian firefighters themselves. Their feedback centred on protection, thermal burden and durability during long deployments in remote locations. The result is a single layer fabric that is lighter, more comfortable and more breathable than traditional wildland PPE fabrics, while retaining the required protective performance.

Fibre blend, comfort and service life

The fabric combines man made flame retardant fibres with natural merino wool. On the inside, a blend of merino wool and Lenzing FR absorbs moisture efficiently and helps prevent the fabric from clinging to the body, whether from sweat or water. This supports thermal comfort and helps keep wearers cool and dry over extended shifts in wildfire conditions.

According to AW Hainsworth, the inherent properties of the chosen fibres give Eco-Dry high abrasion resistance and durability, so garments made from the fabric have a longer service life. The mill already supplies the New South Wales Fire Service with fabric for structural firefighter PPE and has extended its protective portfolio with Eco-Dry for wildland use.

Mill capabilities and global relevance

As the impact of climate change increases the risk of wildfires worldwide, AW Hainsworth sees Eco-Dry's proven technology as well suited to protect the European market. The Yorkshire mill manages every stage from raw wool to finished cloth in house and operates testing facilities accredited to the highest international standards. With more than 240 years of textile innovation and 150 years of experience in protective fabrics for emergency services, the company continues to align traditional wool expertise with advanced textile technologies.