Explore the Outdoors!
Everything about materials used in hiking and outdoor gear and apparel.
Do you ever wonder how to wash a Swiss Gear backpack? If you have used your Swiss Gear backpack for a while, chances are that it will need to be washed or at least cleaned. Most Swiss Gear backpacks are made from 600D polyester, which means that most Swiss Gear backpack models can be safely…
We all know that waterproof jackets are essential for staying dry in the elements but not everyone knows just how long they can be expected to stay effective? A good waterproof jacket made from rubber or PU coated polyester can last for decades, whereas modern shell jackets will slowly loose breathability and water resistance (especially…
Puffer jackets, sometimes referred to as “down jackets” although they don’t always contain real down, are a popular winter fashion staple – but how warm are puffer jackets really? Puffer jackets are very warm and warm enough for most winters. A good down jacket will keep you comfortable down to around -15F (-26C). The exact…
Wearing a windbreaker can make all the difference when you’re out hiking or camping. But with all of their features and benefits, it’s important to know how to properly care for your windbreakers. Windbreakers are often made from nylon or polyester, which are synthetic materials that can be washed but you need to be careful.…
It’s an important question to ask when shopping for a jacket: how long do jackets last? Whether you’re looking at leather, synthetic nylon and polyester or cotton, the lifespan of your purchase depends on several factors. In general, a well-made jacket made of durable materials such as leather, cotton or heavy-duty nylon can easily last…
Do you ever wonder how to wash a polyester backpack? If you have used your polyester backpack for a while, chances are that it will need to be washed or at least cleaned. Most polyester backpacks are made from 600D polyester, which means that most polyester backpack models can be safely washed in the washing…
Are jackets commonly used for skiing waterproof? This is a question that many outdoor enthusiasts and skiers ask. I personally use my skiing jacket for hiking as well as skiing, so knowing about it rain-proof capabilities is a must! Down jackets have become increasingly popular for skiing in recent years due to their lightweight, warm…
There are two main reasons why wool gloves are a good choice for snow sports. First, wool is naturally very insulating, and wearing it will keep your hands warm in cold temperatures. Due to wools high insulation ability, gloves can be made thinner than other materials Wool is a great material for gloves (my favorite!)…
In this blog post we’ll be taking a closer look at the breathability of polyester fleece, exploring how fleece jackets can offer both insulation and ventilation at the same time! While fleece is not as breathable as natural fabrics such as wool, it is generally more breathable than cotton and denser synthetic fabrics. This is…
When it comes to staying warm in winter, polyester is often overlooked as a material. But the truth is, polyester can be just as effective at keeping you warm as any other fabric – if not more so! Modern technology has made it possible to make polyester filling for winter jackets that is almost as…