Outdoor sports have been introduced to China for over a decade and have become increasingly popular. As a result, outdoor clothing has gained a significant market share. White-collar workers and higher-income individuals are now more conscious of the functionality and comfort of their clothing, leading to the rise of functional outdoor wear.
The concept of "function" refers to the beneficial effects or performance of an item. Functional clothing is designed to maximize these benefits, and in the case of outdoor clothing, it often comes with a premium price due to advanced manufacturing techniques. Brands like Columbia and The North Face, which can cost thousands of dollars, are valued not just for their design but for their long-standing reputation and commitment to quality. Over decades, these brands have built a strong brand culture that adds to their perceived value.
There are two main types of outdoor fabrics: one for sports and another for leisure. Sports-grade outdoor fabrics are used in gear such as mountaineering jackets, ski suits, and other equipment designed for harsh environments. These materials are rugged, stiff, and engineered to withstand extreme conditions while providing protection. They undergo rigorous testing by international institutions like ITSSGS, ensuring they meet high standards. Domestic brands, on the other hand, may not have such strict requirements.
Leisure-oriented outdoor fabrics, on the other hand, focus on style and comfort. These are ideal for casual outdoor activities and feature soft textures, refined craftsmanship, and a more relaxed aesthetic.
To evaluate the quality and function of outdoor clothing, several key tests are performed on the fabric. These include shrinkage rate, seam slippage, elongation strength, tear resistance, pH level, water resistance, and more. Tests also cover durability against moisture, sunlight, sweat, friction, and washing. These evaluations ensure that the fabric can perform well in various environmental conditions.
The production of outdoor fabrics involves complex processes such as waterproofing, calendering, dry and wet coating, and film lamination. These treatments provide features like water resistance, breathability, UV protection, and warmth. The quality control during production is critical, as even small flaws can affect performance and safety.
The foundation of high-quality outdoor clothing starts at the textile printing and dyeing stage. The quality of yarn plays a crucial role in determining the fabric’s strength and durability. For example, the denier (D) measurement indicates the fineness of the fiber, which affects the fabric's tear resistance and overall performance.
In addition to yarn quality, other factors such as fabric weight, density, pH balance, and color fastness are tested according to international standards like AATCC and ASTM. These standards set high benchmarks for performance, especially when compared to Chinese national standards, which tend to be less stringent.
Color fastness is another important aspect, measured on a scale from 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest. This determines how well the fabric retains its color after exposure to light, washing, rubbing, and perspiration.
Overall, the development of outdoor clothing requires a deep understanding of both material science and consumer needs. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about performing well in challenging environments. Whether you're hiking through the mountains or enjoying a weekend trail, the right outdoor gear can make all the difference.
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