What TO Look for in Outdoor Clothing: Durability, Comfort, Quality, and Sustainability

When it comes to outdoor clothing, especially for families spending time in nature, choosing the right gear is important. You need clothing that can handle the elements, provide comfort, and withstand the wear and tear of outdoor activities. In this post, I’ll share what I look for when shopping for outdoor apparel, from fabric types to sustainability.

1. Durability: Gear That Lasts

Durability is a top priority when buying outdoor clothing. Whether you're camping, hiking, or engaging in other outdoor adventures, you need clothes that can stand up to the rigors of the environment. Look for high-quality stitching, reinforced seams, and fabrics designed to handle abrasion and wear. Key features to consider:

Ripstop fabric: Ideal for jackets, pants, and packs, ripstop is a woven fabric that prevents small tears from spreading.
Double-stitched seams: Reinforced stitching in areas that experience the most stress (like shoulders, knees, and cuffs) can extend the life of your gear.
Weather-resistant treatments: Look for gear with water-resistant or water-repellent finishes that protect you from rain, snow, or dew. You can also treat or retreat clothing articles with Nikwax wash-in waterproofer.
Reinforced areas: Look for clothing with reinforced stitching or patches in high-wear areas, like knees, elbows, and seat.

Why It Matters for Families: For families, especially with kids, durability is key. Kids tend to be hard on their clothing—climbing trees, crawling through the dirt, and playing in the mud. Durability ensures their gear holds up to all those adventures, reducing the need for constant replacements.

2. Comfort: Moving with Ease

Comfort is non-negotiable, especially for active outdoor activities. When shopping for outdoor clothing, look for pieces that fit well and allow for freedom of movement. Comfort comes from proper fit, breathable fabrics, stretch, and thoughtful design.

Breathability: Outdoor clothing should allow air to circulate and wick away moisture, especially if you’re exerting yourself. Fabrics like merino wool and synthetic blends like polyester are known for their moisture-wicking abilities and regulate temperature, keeping you cool when it's hot and warm when it's cold.
Stretch: Activewear often incorporates stretchy fabrics (like spandex or elastane) for better mobility, especially in items like hiking pants and jackets. Stretch is a must for me in my clothing so I have maximum mobility and no resctrition.
Ergonomically designed: Check for features like articulated knees, adjustable cuffs, or waistbands that ensure a great fit while allowing for movement.

Why Comfort Matters for Families: Kids especially benefit from comfortable clothing—they can’t enjoy outdoor activities if they’re constantly adjusting a jacket or uncomfortable shoes. Look for gear that fits well and allows your family to move freely, whether they’re hiking, running, or playing.

3. Quality Fabrics: Natural Performance

The fabric of your outdoor clothing plays a huge role in its performance, longevity, and comfort. Some fabrics are better suited for certain activities or conditions, so choosing the right material is essential. Wool, especially merino wool, is one of the best fabrics for outdoor clothing due to its versatility and natural performance. Here's why I love it:

Merino Wool: The Outdoor All-Star

Wool is a natural fiber with excellent moisture-wicking and insulating properties. Merino wool, in particular, is one of the best fabrics for outdoor clothing. It’s soft, lightweight, and breathable, making it perfect for layering.

Benefits of Merino Wool:

Temperature Regulation: Wool helps regulate body temperature by trapping heat when it's cold and releasing moisture to keep you cool in warmer weather.
Odor Resistance: Merino wool naturally resists odors, making it perfect for multi-day trips where you don’t have the option to wash clothes frequently.
Sustainability: Wool is a renewable, biodegradable resource, making it a great choice for eco-conscious shoppers.

Other Great Fabrics for Outdoor Clothing:

Nylon & Polyester: These synthetic fabrics are lightweight, durable, and water-resistant, making them ideal for jackets, pants, and gear bags.
Cotton: While not great for high-performance gear, cotton is still a solid choice for casual outdoor activities or as part of a layering system.
Gore-Tex: This high-performance fabric is known for its waterproof and breathable qualities, perfect for rain jackets or outer shells.

6. Shopping Sustainably: Making Ethical Choices

In today’s world, sustainability is an important consideration when shopping for outdoor clothing. Look for brands that prioritize eco-friendly practices and use materials that have a minimal impact on the environment.

Recycled or Upcycled Gear: Some brands offer gear made from recycled materials, including old fishing nets, plastic bottles, or upcycled fabrics.
Ethical manufacturing: Seek out brands that pay fair wages, provide safe working conditions, and take steps to reduce their carbon footprint.
Fair Labor Practices: Support companies that promote fair wages and safe working conditions for garment workers. Look for certifications like Fair Trade or brands that are transparent about their manufacturing processes.
Sustainable Materials: Look for clothing made from eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, recycled polyester, or merino wool. These fabrics have less environmental impact and are often biodegradable.
Longevity over fast fashion: High-quality outdoor gear is built to last. Instead of frequently buying new clothes, invest in pieces that will hold up over time.

Why Sustainable Shopping Matters for Families: Sustainable outdoor gear is an investment not just for you but for the planet. By choosing eco-friendly, durable clothing, you're teaching your kids the importance of sustainability and reducing your family's carbon footprint.

Some of our favorite environmentally conscious outdoor brands :

Patagonia- 1% of their total sales go to environmental causes, and they have a strong commitment to reducing their carbon footprint.
Reima
Prana
The North Face
Londre Swimsuits - made from recycled plastic bottles

Choosing outdoor clothing that balances durability, comfort, stretch, and quality is key to enjoying your outdoor adventures. Fabrics like wool and synthetic blends provide the perfect combination of performance and protection, while sustainable shopping choices help minimize your environmental impact. By making informed clothing choices, you can enjoy the outdoors while being kind to both your body and the planet.

What to Look for in Outdoor Clothing