Textiles and leather
Silicones have revolutionized fabrics of all kinds. As finishes, they help fabrics retain shape, texture and resistance to abrasion. As dyes, they are used to help achieve uniformity and brilliance of color. They help make leather shoes raingear waterproof. And they seal out water from goggles and diving masks.
Silicones enable new techniques to design sportswear that is lightweight, durable, water repellent and high performing.
Silicones in fabric softeners help preserve "newness" because of their softening properties. Silicones' elasticity helps smooth out wrinkles.