OUTDOOR RETAILER MARKET-SLC, UTAH
BOULDER OUTDOOR SPECIALTY GROUP’s SPAWNS GEAR/APPAREL THAT GOES GREENER & IN-HOUSE
Words, Judith Ecochard
Images-Courtesy of Sierra Designs and J. Ecochard
No part of the clothing biz stands for “integrity of brand”- the way the outdoor industry does. IMHO.
Makes sense given the consumer base---often donning performance attire in extreme environments. Walkin’ the Red Carpet in strappy high heels at a glam premier is not extreme…trekking to the summit of Mt Ranier is.
The trade reads covered the new in-house design team for the mothership Boulder Outdoor Specialty Group…and Sierra Designs, part of the fleet… is the most technically tricked out of the bunch.
WHAT’S NEW:
SD serves up some terrific gear/garb for Spring/Summer 2010, made using new laser cutting techniques. Dubbed- Fusonic Technology- the method also kicks in…with stitch-less technology that heat fuses seams together (they’re waterproof!)… resulting in a product that’s “naturally strong,” less bulky, and needs less energy to manufacture.
The popular Cyclone™ Eco Jacket (M/W-$189) and full Zip Pant (M/ $139)-with internal leg gaiter/wrap around scuff guard) …are made from 100% recycled polyester/solvent free construction. For S/S 2010, the jacket gets switched up - with pockets moved around (more backpack friendly), fully taped PVC free seams, underarm vents, waterproof zippers…and refreshed colors.
Joining the series is the new Cyclone™ Parka (M/W $110), Shell (M/W-$99) and full Zip Pant ($85)…that’s three season friendly, light weight, and perfect for keeping wearers dry during downpours (brushed tricot lined collar and chin guard on the stowable, adjustable hood –plus- double storm flap with rain gutter). The Parka is slightly longer ---making it the ideal outer layer for shredding the slopes, or biking to work.
Also new are the ultra lightweight, compact Isotope Nano Jacket (M/W $99-stuffs into interior chest pocket) and Pant (M/W $89-articulated knees, draw cord adjustable waist)… rip stop tough outerwear that is waterproof, waist cinch compatible, and features SD’s acclaimed Condor Construction™ that allows for full range of motion of limbs- via a continuous panel built into the underarms.
Most versatile for our needs --- is the new four-season Mantra Fusion™ jacket that “…is the best waterproof-breathable, laminated mountaineer hardshell.”
The jacket has plenty of ex/internal pockets, Condor Construction™, adjustable hems and cuffs, a helmet compatible fully adjustable hood with visor, pit zips… and comes in fun colors (Blueberry/Ink, Hot Sauce/Brick, Black etc… $259 for M/W). There’s also a matching Pant with YKK zippers (M-$199) and a companion-the N2 Fusion Jacket that’s lighter in weight ($229).
Urban chic styling is not the norm in outdoorsy brands…but we liked the slim fitting, soft shell Vapor Hoody ($139) and Jacket ($129)… that can perform on the high mountains, on hilly golf courses, and in the deep canyons of Wall Street. Made from double weave, anti-wrinkle soft-shell fabric, the items have plenty of pockets, are highly wind resistant, and eco constructed using Fusion Technology.
INFO: SIERRA DESIGNS
