The outdoor furniture sector has shown steady growth in recent years, as evidenced by the numerous products offered by companies. 

In an upholstered piece for outdoor use what matters? Aesthetic appeal matters. Design matters. Materials matter. But there is a “hidden” element that often goes unnoticed, and yet actually determines a large part of the quality perceived by the end user: the comfort. It is an immediate sensation. You sit down and everything feels natural or, conversely, we do not feel comfortable. In the world outdoor, this difference does not depend only on the product's aesthetics, but on the invisible engineering hidden inside every padding. Elcam's strategy aims to design and manufacture precisely these paddings.

Waterproof doesn't simply mean water-resistant

In outdoor furniture, waterproof, i.e. resistant to water, is a concept often taken for granted. But rain or water in general is only one of the many challenges an upholstered product must face. In fact, a cushion intended for an outdoor environment must also meet other fundamental requirements: resistance to thermal shocks, long-term durability, lasting comfort, hygiene and freshness.

Materials must therefore be designed to remain stable despite continuous and sudden temperature changes; they must resist premature aging caused by exposure to UV rays and salt. To guarantee constant and lasting comfort they must provide ergonomic support that maintains shape and performance even under intensive use.
 Finally, thanks to advanced waterproof technology that prevents internal moisture retention, new-generation materials, tested and certified, offer protection against mold and dust mites.
 

The difference lies entirely in the design

It is therefore not enough for a product to be waterproof, but you need to see how it will perform after a whole season of exposure to the elements and beyond.

Seen from the outside, two cushions may look identical: they might have the same shape, the same fabric and the same design. Yet after months of use, one may show loss of support, permanent deformation, moisture buildup, mold growth and bad odors, while the other will continue to offer the same comfort as on the first day.

The difference is all in the design. For designers, brands, architects and hospitality operators, the quality of an upholstered item is not measured on the day of installation, but after months or years of use; the true luxury is a product that continues to keep its characteristics unchanged over time.