Every once in a while, you discover a company that you wish you’d have known about for ages. For me, that company is Outdoor Research. When I first heard of them, it was in no particular context, so I thought they made scientific equipment or something. I was wrong. Way wrong. Outdoor Research makes apparel, fine apparel to protect you from the elements.
I’ve recently received a huge box of tactical apparel from Outdoor Research, and I’m beyond impressed. Remember what quality used to feel like? It’s there in every piece that Outdoor Research makes.
I briefly mention that I wished I had known about them years ago. Here’s why, a quick story: Back in the early 90’s, I was on a multi-day field training exercise in the dead of winter. Anyone who knows me knows I hate the cold. As bad luck would have it, on day two, we ran into freezing drizzle; my hands had become wet. As night fell, so did the temperatures, and my Army issue gloves froze fast to my hands. I’ll tell you this: there is not much in the Army that is more useless than a Lieutenant with frozen hands. I developed first-degree frostbite, an affliction that affects me to this day. Had I known about Outdoor Research products, that unpleasantness never would have happened.
Company History
Outdoor Research (OR), founded in 1981 by Ron Gregg, has established itself as a leading manufacturer of outdoor apparel and gear, renowned for its commitment to innovation, quality, and functionality. The company’s mission centers on creating reliable products that empower adventurers to explore the world’s most challenging environments.
A standout in OR’s product lineup is the Allies Collection, a series of tactical-inspired apparel designed to meet the rigorous demands of military personnel, first responders, and outdoor professionals. This collection is the result of extensive field testing in extreme conditions, including the Arctic Circle, and incorporates feedback from elite end-users worldwide.
Key Features
Weatherproof Design: The Allies Collection is engineered to be weatherproof, offering superior protection against severe elements. This makes it ideal for professionals who work in unpredictable outdoor conditions. Many products use 3-layer GORE-TEX fabrication. The fabric remains 100% windproof yet is breathable. This breathability is critical for maintaining comfort during high-exertion activities, preventing the buildup of moisture inside the garment that could lead to chilling.
Versatility: The collection emphasizes functional versatility, allowing users to adapt to various situations and environments. This adaptability is crucial for professionals who may face changing conditions during their operations. One of the main elements of versatility is adjustability. Most products in the Allies line have adjustable cuffs and hoods. They feature two-way zippers that can be opened from both the bottom and top of the garment. This allows for easy ventilation or perhaps easy access to a climbing harness. Jackets feature armpit zippers to control the buildup of heat. The products are quite well thought out. The goal, as I see it, is to allow you to continue your task at hand, whatever that may be, without having the weather interfere and stop you.
Durability: Designed to withstand rugged environments, the Allies Collection is built to last, ensuring that professionals can rely on their gear in demanding situations. Seams are sealed on both the inside and outside to ensure they remain resistant to moisture. Three-layer construction is significantly more durable than having only two layers. The extra layer makes a real difference; it is Outdoor Research going the extra mile to help the end user.
Product Lines
The Allies Collection offers three product lines tailored for specific extreme conditions.
Mountain Line: Designed for outstanding technical performance in high mountain environments. It featured hard-shell jackets and pants. Hard shells are typically more durable and offer better protection against severe weather compared to soft shells. This makes them ideal for the most challenging of mountain conditions. This is designed for people who require reliable protection in extreme mountain conditions.
Colossus Line: Optimized for the harshest climatic conditions, such as those found in the remote highlands or the high Arctic. This kind of protective clothing is typically worn by military personnel, search and rescue teams and other professionals working in extreme environments. The Colossus parka is a work of art. It fits the body well, without bulk, yet keeps the wearer warm with Primaloft Gold insulation.
Microgravity Line: Engineered for military alpinism, including vertical assaults and long ski insertions. It is built with agility and rapid movement in mind. The lighter weight of the fabric allows for efficient layering. The soft interior gives a feel that is not clammy to the skin. Jackets feature DynamicReach underarm panels for enhanced freedom of movement.
No matter what piece of Outdoor Research clothing you choose from the Allies Collection, you’ll be investing in top-tier gear designed for professionals and outdoor enthusiasts who require reliable protection in extreme conditions.
With the holiday season fast approaching, why not check their website today? They are running fantastic deals on some of the finest Ski and Snow essentials out there.
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