Outdoor clothing – what is it, how to choose it and what are its properties?

Are you going trekking, mountain climbing, or simply spending time outdoors? Your wardrobe should include outdoor clothing that will protect you from wind, rain, and low temperatures. Outdoor clothing – what does that mean? Check it out!

Outdoor clothing – what does it mean?

Outdoor shoes, trousers, and jackets are specialized garments designed for outdoor activities and various weather conditions. It's crucial that outdoor clothing has unique properties, such as resistance to wind, rain, and low temperatures.

The primary purpose of outdoor clothing is to provide comfort and protection from unfavorable weather conditions. These garments are so functional thanks to the use of modern technologies and special synthetic materials, which help maintain optimal body temperature, wick away moisture, and maintain freedom of movement.

Who needs outdoor clothing?

Outdoor clothing is intended primarily for people who spend a lot of time outdoors, such as:

• lovers of trekking and mountain tourism;
• athletes who practice outdoor sports, e.g. runners, cyclists, climbers and skiers;
• families with children who spend a lot of time outdoors, e.g. during picnics, camping or walking;
• survival and bushcraft enthusiasts;
• field workers, e.g. foresters, mountain rescuers, construction workers, law enforcement services.

What makes good outdoor clothing stand out?

Good outdoor clothing provides both comfort and a high level of functionality. This is ensured by the unique properties of outdoor jackets, pants, and shoes. What distinguishes high-quality outdoor clothing? Learn about the key features of outdoor clothing.

High water resistance

Basic outdoor gear, such as jackets, hiking boots, and outdoor trousers, must be highly waterproof. Membranes are often used for this purpose, ensuring waterproofness while still allowing the skin to breathe.

Breathability

Effectively wicking moisture away from the skin's surface is essential to preventing overheating and discomfort during strenuous physical activity, such as climbing. Therefore, outdoor clothing is designed to allow the skin to breathe freely.

Windproof

Outdoor jackets and trekking trousers protect against wind, which can quickly lower body temperature. This is why windproof material, such as softshell, is an essential feature of good-quality outdoor clothing.

Thermal insulation

Thermal comfort is one of the most important characteristics of outdoor clothing. This type of clothing must provide warmth even at lower temperatures. Materials such as fleece, natural down, or synthetic down are used for this purpose.

Resistance to mechanical damage

High-quality outdoor clothing is made of materials resistant to abrasion, tearing, and other mechanical damage. This ensures that the clothing will perform perfectly even in the event of a fall or while traveling on less-traveled trails.

Light weight

An important feature of outdoor clothing is its low weight and the ability to easily pack into a backpack. This means you'll always have a jacket with you that will be suitable for rain, snow, or a drop in temperature.

Functional design

What else distinguishes outdoor clothing and footwear? Functional construction is certainly worth mentioning, including zippered pockets, an adjustable hood, and reinforced knees and cuffs. These features make outdoor clothing more comfortable, durable, and practical.

What types of outdoor clothing are there?

There are many different types of outdoor clothing available, tailored to your activity, weather conditions, or simply your individual needs. Learn about the different types of outdoor clothing and their uses.

Outdoor jackets

• Outdoor raincoats – these are waterproof thanks to membranes like Gore-Tex or eVent. They protect against rain and wind while allowing the skin to breathe. They're a good choice for everyday wear when you don't plan on engaging in any significant physical activity.
• Softshell jackets – these types of clothing are lighter and more flexible than classic raincoats. Furthermore, women's ski jackets , as well as classic models, protect against wind and light rain and are also highly breathable. This makes them ideal for trekking, skiing, Nordic walking, and hiking.
• Down jackets are ideal ski jackets for men , women, and children because they protect against very low temperatures. They are usually filled with natural goose or duck down.

Outdoor trousers

You have a variety of outdoor trousers at your disposal, such as women's ski trousers , which are designed for women skiers, climbing enthusiasts, etc. You can also choose trekking trousers, which are lightweight and made of durable materials.

Thermal underwear

Thermal underwear is the base layer of outdoor clothing. It's designed to wick moisture away from the skin, keeping the body dry even during intense physical exertion.

Sweatshirts and fleeces

Men's, women's, and children's sweatshirts and fleeces are among the most common outdoor clothing items . They can provide an additional layer of thermal insulation, for example, when skiing. An alternative solution is to wear only a sweatshirt made of technical material.

Outdoor footwear

Examples of outdoor footwear include trekking shoes, which are designed for long hikes. Essential items include:

• non-slip sole,
• waterproof material,
• ankle stabilizing structure.

Outdoor accessories

Outdoor accessories and equipment are another example of equipment that will prove useful during outdoor activities. Examples include:

• outdoor backpack – they are waterproof, so you can safely store food, drinks and other accessories necessary on mountain trails;
• outdoor hat and gloves – insulated winter gloves and hats for men , women or children protect against snow, rain and low temperatures.