Outdoor Clothing Fabrics: What to Choose for Your Adventures

Outdoor performance depends heavily on fabric choice. From rain-soaked trails to cold mountain hikes, choosing the right material ensures comfort and protection. Here's a guide to key outdoor fabrics:

Main Types of Outdoor Fabrics

Nylon: Lightweight, durable, ideal for pants, jackets, backpacks.
Polyester: Breathable, moisture-resistant, used in fleeces and base layers.
Merino Wool: Natural insulation, odor resistance, excellent for base layers.
Softshell: Wind-resistant, flexible, perfect for active movement in cooler weather.
Hardshell: Waterproof, rugged outer protection for harsh conditions (e.g., Gore-Tex).
Fleece: Lightweight warmth, ideal for mid-layers.

Choosing the Right Fabric

High activity = prioritize breathability.
Rain and wind = invest in waterproof membranes.
Cold conditions = focus on wool and fleece layering.
Fast packing = choose lightweight, compressible fabrics.

Recommended Brands and Technologies

Columbia: Omni-Tech, Omni-Heat
Montane: Pertex fabrics
Marmot: MemBrain waterproof technology
Icebreaker: Pure Merino Wool
CMP, Trespass, HI-TEC: affordable technical fabrics