Creating the Flystopper: Innovation for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Who doesn’t love spending time outdoors? But if you're like me and spend a lot of time in nature, you know the problem: persistent horsefly bites and flies that just won’t leave you alone. In the summer, when I spend my free time with my horse at the stable, horseflies and other insects can really be a nuisance. This experience led me to look for a solution here at IDENTIC Projects. Not only did the idea for the Flystopper come to life, but also the creation of FUNC Sportswear, a brand dedicated to developing innovative outdoor wear. In this post, I want to give you a behind-the-scenes look at how this idea turned into a finished product.

The Idea: The Beginning of the Journey

The idea for the Flystopper didn’t come from a sudden inspiration, but rather from a common experience. My friend Anne and I spent a lot of time at the stable, and we were constantly bothered by the horseflies while spending time with our horses. We kept asking ourselves: Why isn’t there a good solution for people? After all, horses are already equipped with special zebra-striped blankets that, according to studies, are proven to keep insects at bay—but there was nothing like that for us.

This frustration sparked the idea to create our own solution. We wanted to design a product that would protect us from those pesky insects without sacrificing comfort or freedom of movement. And that’s how the idea for the Flystopper jacket and the FUNC Sportswear brand came to life.

Why Zebra Patterns? The Science Behind Insect Protection

The idea of incorporating zebra stripes into the jacket is based on scientific research showing that the bold black-and-white patterns actually have a repellent effect on insects. Studies have shown that flies and horseflies struggle to land on surfaces with such striking patterns. The zebra stripes confuse their visual senses, reducing the likelihood of them settling nearby.

This natural strategy, already successfully used in horse blankets, inspired us to apply it in our Flystopper jacket. This way, we combine scientifically proven insect repellent with a stylish design that works perfectly for all outdoor activities.

The Challenge: Balancing Function, Design, and Sustainability

Developing a product that’s both functional and stylish wasn’t easy. The biggest challenge was making sure the jacket provided real protection against insects without sacrificing comfort or freedom of movement. We didn’t want to create something bulky or restrictive, but rather a lightweight, breathable jacket that could be worn during any outdoor activity.

On top of that, I was committed to creating a high-quality product with sustainability in mind. That’s why I turned to VAUDE for support. As a company known for its climate-neutral production and eco-friendly, high-quality products, VAUDE was the perfect partner. Together, we worked on solutions that not only protect against insects but are also made with environmental responsibility in mind.

It took time, many adjustments, and plenty of testing, but in the end, we created a jacket that not only meets the highest functional standards but also aligns with our sustainability goals.

Brand Identity – Developed by Mark Herpich

"The FUNC Sportswear logo embodies the brand's dual purpose: functional outdoor apparel with style. The shield-shaped icon represents protection and resilience, symbolizing the protective function of the clothing that offers security to its wearer in the outdoors. Inside the shield, a dynamic zebra pattern not only adds visual appeal but also creates a direct connection to the Flystopper product. This pattern gives the logo a sense of wildness and adventure, reflecting the spirit of the brand. Combined with the clean, modern typography, the FUNC Sportswear logo emphasizes that functionality and design go hand in hand. It’s a statement for outdoor enthusiasts who value both performance and aesthetics."

Launch

After months of development, testing, and refining, it was finally time to launch the Flystopper. We were eager to introduce the jacket to the world and see how people would respond to our unique solution for insect protection. Our goal was to reach outdoor enthusiasts who would truly appreciate the benefits of the Flystopper.

Thanks to social media, our website, and word of mouth, the Flystopper quickly gained attention. What started as a simple idea between Anne and me has now evolved into a brand – FUNC Sportswear. We're proud of the product we've created and excited to keep pushing the boundaries with new, innovative solutions for anyone who loves spending time outdoors.

But our journey doesn’t stop with the Flystopper. We’re already working on expanding the FUNC Sportswear range.

Conclusion

The Flystopper is more than just a jacket – it’s the result of passion, hard work, and the desire to enhance the outdoor experience for everyone. We’re proud to have created a product that’s not only functional and sustainable but also helps people enjoy their time in nature without interruptions.

Have you tried the Flystopper yet? Or do you have ideas or suggestions for future products? We’d love to hear from you! Share your feedback with us and let’s continue to enjoy nature together.