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Materials Demystified

Tech Talk

Cordura, Spectra, Hypalon, Bioshield, DryLoft, Polarguard HV, Polarguard 3D, how on earth do manufacturers expect you to make sense of all the technical mumbo jumbo they’re so fond of throwing our way? It seems the realm of technology has so permeated the outdoor industry that it’s tough for consumers to make sense of it all. Even our bookish Gear Techs have trouble keeping it straight. In their attempt to keep track of the latest in fabrics and materials they created this handy primer and thought you might appreciate the help too.

Who makes the most basic components of outdoor gear?

 Almost all manufacturers of outdoor gear utilize outside suppliers for  research intensive technical cloths, fabrics, tent poles, and other materials. In each category one or two suppliers frequently make materials for the entire outdoor industry. Some of the larger material suppliers in the business include Dupont, W.L. Gore and Associates, Hoescht-Cleanese, Easton, and other large multinationals. Since many outdoor companies share the same sources for materials, the defining factor becomes how each integrates product design and workmanship with high quality materials.

The following links summarize the most prevelant materials found in outdoor equipment applications. To learn more click on...

• Pack  Materials

• Sleeping Bag Materials

• Tent Materials