We all have that polyester cycling jersey, Capilene base layer, or running shirt that still stinks no matter how many times it has been through the wash. Instead of throwing all your synthetic outdoor apparel into the recycling bin, there are a few ways to remove the offensive odor after it has become too much to bear.
Traditionally focused on the performance of individual pieces of gear, brands are now taking a holistic approach to outdoor apparel design. For Spring 2013, both The North Face and Sierra Designs have created entire collections, from base layer to outerwear, where every component is specifically designed to work together in order to cut weight and bulk yet still provide durable protection, enabling you to carry less and go farther.
Last autumn, Puma announced plans to offer a line of shoes, apparel, and bags that are fully compostable. Keeping with their quest to only manufacture gear that follows a complete technical or biological cycle, Puma now wants all your old gear to repurpose, including recycling into new Puma gear.
Do you love to participate in summer outdoor activities but hate the inevitable tans lines from sports bras or tanks? In a time when most sportswear companies are adding UPF protection to their outdoor apparel, new company Naked Sports Gear is looking to expose as much of your skin as legally and modestly possible to the sun.
I have all but given up on synthetic base layers for use during multi-day outdoor activities simply because of the stink factor. Not wanting to rid my pack of them completely, I have found a new and improved purpose for my poor polyester outcasts as warm and comfy camp shirts. There is nothing better than rolling into camp all sweaty, setting up your tent, then changing into a dry, cozy top in which to lounge around camp and sleep.