Odlo (482 articles)

At Odlo, it all started with tracksuit pants

The Odlo brand was founded by its namesake, Odd Roar Lofterød (OdLo for short), in Oslo back in 1946. Initially, the young company's business was limited to producing warm training pants for speed skaters. At the same time, the concept of producing technical sportswear became established. But as is often the case, it takes children to change the world. In 1963, Odd Roar Lofterød's son was a Norwegian junior speed skating team member. Odd developed the first elastic and functional training pants made from synthetic Helanca fiber on this occasion. The product was a complete success and led to the launch of the first highly technical suit for speed skaters and cross-country skiers only a short time later. Odlo's final breakthrough came in 1964, when the Winter Olympics were held in Innsbruck, and the Norwegian ski team wore Odlo's innovative suits. Eight years later, in Sapporo, there were already 22 nations. In 1986, the company expanded worldwide and relocated its headquarters to Switzerland.

Three layers, one job to do

Odlo became known for its highly technical sportswear. From sports underwear to warm synthetic fiber jackets, there is almost nothing that Odlo does not offer. Whether for endurance, mountain, or winter sports, the brand is represented wherever breathable and technical clothing is required. Odlo is regarded as the inventor of the three-layer principle. This principle refers to the targeted combination of three layers of clothing that work together to provide ideal moisture regulation, temperature control, and protection from the elements.

The base layer, i.e., the layer of clothing that sits directly on the skin, ensures moisture is transported away from the body. The functionality of the base layer, therefore, determines the functionality of the entire garment.
The mid-layer links the upper and lower layers of clothing. This second layer primarily provides the necessary insulation against the cold.
The outer layer has a protective function. In addition to moisture transportation, the main focus here is protection against wind and weather.
This principle has always been an important part of the collections and is the cornerstone of all other Odlo technologies. Extremely technical materials were also used early on. In addition to quick moisture transport, these also promote freedom of movement and the body climate of athletes. Whether cross-country skiing, trail running, alpine skiing, or ski touring, Odlo ensures perfect functionality in all situations.

Evolution Blackcomb & Co. - always one step ahead

Thanks to new developments such as Evolution Blackcomb, a new generation of seamless underwear or Technical Wool/Techical Silk, a combination of natural materials and performance fabrics, Odlo is not only able to go with the flow, but is also true to its guiding principle of “always one step ahead”.

Keyword sustainability

Odlo has been a member of the Fair Wear Foundation since 2008. This independent organization is committed to implementing dedicated working standards in the textile industry worldwide, considering the guidelines of the International Labour Organization (ILO). All products in the sportswear collection are also tested by Oeko-Tex Standard 100. This ensures that the end products do not contain any substances that are harmful to health. In addition to innovative products that support athletes, the issues of social responsibility and sustainability have played a significant role for the company from the very beginning: the Swiss brand's entire range is certified following Oeko-Tex Standard 100, which guarantees materials that are free from harmful substances. Extra, over 70% of the products are manufactured within Europe, which ensures short transportation routes and manufacturing conditions that can be influenced. As a member of the Fair Wear Foundation, Odlo is also committed to improving working conditions in the textile industry and has been awarded “Leader Status” by the internationally renowned non-profit organization. At the same time, the company is consistently promoting the use of sustainable materials. Odlo aims to be climate-neutral by 2030. 

Odlo brand check

• Odlo was founded in 1946 by Odd Roar Lofterød in Norway.
• It is best known for ... highly technical sportswear, especially underwear
• Well-known athletes of the brand are ... Mountain biker Nino Schurter and the Gasparin Sisters
• Sustainability: member of the Fair Wear Foundation since 2008