Materials innovator Solarcore formally launched as a standalone brand this month, with the goal of leveraging the thermal properties of NASA-inspired Aerogel, the world’s lowest thermally conductive solid, to revolutionize insulation for a multitude of applications — from structures and packaging to cold weather apparel and footwear. Solarcore’s patented technology provides maximum thermal performance with minimal loft, and it can be easily incorporated into pre-existing manufacturing processes.

Solarcore’s initial application was within its sibling brand, Oros apparel, and because of the value the company saw there, Solarcore was greenlit as a standalone brand. Oros had successfully applied Solarcore insulation technology to key thermal zones in cold weather apparel, with body-mapping that allowed Oros to optimize its unique thermal advantages and retain its ground-breaking warming properties, while also increasing mobility and performance.

Solarcore plans to maintain some of its key partnerships moving forward, including:

• In the consumer sector, Solarcore partnered with Merrell to insulate the footwear brand’s MTL Thermo Rogue 4 Boot, which won an ISPO Award in 2022. The boot was recognized for incorporating Sc_Foam, which maintains excellent conductive thermal properties even under compression, while offering a lightweight, high-performance solution for cold weather. Solarcore will continue to prioritize the expansion of partnerships with footwear, apparel, and accessory brands that recognize the remarkable advantages of the Solarcore ‘More Warmth. Less Bulk’ promise. 

•  In collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense, Solarcore is set to transform the Army’s cold weather tactical shelters, offering enhanced heat retention, reduced weight, and improved efficiencies in transportation and setup. With the Defense Department investing billions annually in heating and cooling tactical shelters, the adoption of Solarcore presents significant cost-saving opportunities, operational and carbon footprint benefits.

“The early success of Solarcore’s applications, from outdoor apparel to military infrastructure, is just the beginning,” said Michael Markesbery, co-founder and CEO at Oros Labs, parent company of Solarcore. “We believe the future of insulation lies in harnessing the potential of innovative materials that have already proven their efficacy in the most challenging environments, such as space. The integration of NASA-inspired Aerogel into Solarcore material’s DNA is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in thermal solutions.”

Solarcore’s leadership team has deep experience in materials, innovation, business development and marketing from industry leading companies, including The North Face, W.L. Gore, Dyneema, FLIR, Columbia Sportswear, Adidas and more.