Choosing the right clothing and gear
There is a huge selection of outdoor equipment and clothing available today. This has the advantage that there is always a perfect outfit for your specific requirements and favorite outdoor activity. However, it can sometimes be difficult to find that outfit.
In recent years, the development of outdoor clothing and accessories has accelerated. Brands are constantly innovating and developing new fabrics and membranes, which they then incorporate into their products. As a result, (technical and functional) outdoor clothing tends to come with a long list of specifications. So how do you choose what is best for you?
The main points to pay attention to are:
- Application / use
As with tools, there is usually one specific product for one specific application in outdoor clothing. For example, you can wear a summer jacket in the winter, but everyone will understand why this is not advisable. Therefore, think carefully about what you are going to use it for. - Breathability / comfort
Breathability is often indicated in MVTR (Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate) or RET (Evaporative Resistance of Textile). A lot of research has been done on this over the years and you will pay more for fabrics/membranes with the latest technology and therefore have a higher breathability. The better the breathability, the more comfortable you will be, especially when you are exerting yourself. - Sustainability
This is in the (technology) of the fabrics and membranes. Simply put. Coated fabrics will wear out sooner than membranes (for example, Gore-Tex is made of material that is also used in hip transplants and in space travel). Of course, with coated products, the quality and thickness of the fabric also counts, to what extent it is susceptible to wear. But as a rule, you can assume that membranes are more durable. A super-lightweight fabric is usually more susceptible to wear or puncture damage than a heavier one. The more expensive lightweight fabrics have impressive durability, but in general they are reserved for high-end technical clothing for diehards who go on extreme expeditions. Lightweight jackets have the great advantage that they take up less weight and space in a backpack. And that is often more important during an expedition than an extra long durability of a year or two. - Price
Often the price is leading in the decision of an outfit. It is more important to look at the combination of all the previously mentioned points and make a choice based on this. If you are looking for a coat to occasionally walk the dog, it will not have to be as breathable, waterproof and warm as when you travel to the Far North to be at the mercy of nature for two weeks. In general we can say that the price determines how well a garment functions in the areas of; breathability, durability, waterproofness and warmth.
Still unsure if a particular item is the best choice? Feel free to make an appointment to stop by. We ensure you leave with the most suitable outfit through expert, tailored advice.
