Betabrand has just completed crowdfunding for the Germinator antimicrobial jacket, intended to protect the user against every aspect of filthy public areas.
Its breathable, water-resistant soft-shell fleece has patches of
X-STATIC, a patented, silver-infused, antimicrobial fabric that's used by many major sportswear makers including Lululemon, on the cuffs and collar.
"We added a high collar with a removable and washable antimicrobial liner that lets you discreetly protect yourself from reckless farts and coughs," says the
product description on the website of crowd-funded apparel company Betabrand.
Equipped with thumbholes to better cover the hands from demonic bacteria that could be hiding anywhere, the sleeve cuffs are removable and, of course, washable.
An interior pocket protects personal items although it does not guarantee they will remain sterile.
Antimicrobial clothing started with underwear and sportswear in an attempt to protect the wearer against his own natural secretions, and the focus has only recently moved to outerwear.
The Germinator ($223.20) is the brainchild of Chicago-based consulting firm
Gravity Tank and the first result of the firm's Straphanger concept of creating various antimicrobial clothing intended for germ safety in public transport. It is expected to start shipping in January.