Backpacking
Clothing Materials
Backpacking Clothing Materials - Get the facts before you buy.
Backpacking Clothing Materials are always changing and improving. We’ve come a long way since the days of yesterday where only fleece and wool could be used to help keep one warm and dry.
There are many synthetic and wool/synthetic materials on the market today.
Capilene By Patagonia, is a polyester material with a water resistant core and finish. Per thickness it is warmer than wool.
Polypropylene - A plastic polymer that is durable and does not soak up water.
Nylon - Also refered to as polymide. Is a synthetic version of silk.
Silk - Comes from the bombiyx mori caterpillar. Prized for its insulation, softness, and strength.
Gor-Tex - 100% waterproof, windproof, and breathable. Has very small pores that will let air in, but not water.
Polyester - Chemical design makes this fabric extremely strong, soft, shape-holding, mildew and water resistant, and quick drying. It is provided as the base material in many outdoor fabrics.
Merino Wool - The finest and softest of all wools. Comes from the Merino Sheep. Will not shrink and does not itch.
Elastane - Also known as lycra or spandex. Known for its exceptional elasticity. It is stronger and more durable than rubber.
NanoCore - This material holds air as an insulating agent by being surrounded by air microfibers. It can be compared to double glazed windows. Bacteria resistant, keeping you sanitary and odor free.
CoolMax - A superior moisture wicking and blister preventing material because of its specifically constructed fibers. Typically found in socks.
Olifin The lightest of any synthetic fiber. Fibers won’t accept water, making it an extreme wicking material.
Mythlan - An ultra light, high-tech fiber that has a micro-fiber construction that prevents bacteria from taking hold providing a completely odor free and hypoallergenic experience.
Polartec - A syenthetic/fleece that uses unique silver yarns to provide permanent odor resistance. Through yarn selection and different construction techniques, this is a material that is more wind and sun resistant and more water repellent.
Polyamide - Has durability and strength. Can be made from wool, silk, or artificially. It’s generic name is Nylon.
Microfleece - A combination of synthetic fibers and soft stretchy fleece. Very lightweight and is sometimes also made with recycled plastic bottles! Sustainable.
More Backpacking Clothing Materials
Spandex - A polyurethane synthetic fiber that has the ability to stretch up to 60% and bounce back perfectly.
Rentex Powerflex - A very soft stretchy fleece that has been given a silver anti-microbial treatment to keep away odor.
Bamboo - Fabric made from the pulp of bamboo grass. Very sustainable, lightweight, and strong. Even has some antibacterial properties. Also used for cleaning clothes and hand wipes.
Biconstituent Fiber - Made by mixing two different manmade fiber materials together in their fluid stage. Next, they are spun through a spinneret.
Thermofleece - Provides greater warmth with thicker sheepskin microfibers. Has been tested to maintain a 72 temperature at all times.
New Backpacking Clothing Materials are being invented everyday and they just keep getting better and better!
Looking for some Great Deals? Check out the sales and discounts page!
Don’t forget to check out these great pages
Sleeping Bag Informer
Backpacking Packs - Good for the Soul!
Hiking Boot for Kids - Get'em Out in Nature
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