the GearCaster

Apparel Converts Body Heat And Sweat To Thermal Energy

After a successful introduction of QuantumCool apparel and accessories last summer, 180s is now poised to release their first line of winter apparel. Featuring the new QuantumHeat technology, this line of apparel, headwear, and accessories will help keep you warm during winter activities.

Wool Graduates From Base Layers To Insulation

Wool is highly compressible, has a warmth to weight ratio comparable to down, stays warm when wet, is naturally thermo-regulating, manages moisture and odor control. With all this greatness, why hasn't wool been yet used as insulation? Both Ibex and Smartwool have decided to now give wool it's time in the sun, creating the perfect mid and even outer layers for cold weather adventures.

Polartec Adds High Loft For Increased Warmth And Breathability

For 2012, Polartec has created new high loft version of their Power Shield fabric, adding 25% more warmth while taking away 25% of the weight. Two North American brands, The North Face and Outdoor Research, have picked up the fabric, creating hybrid jackets purpose built for your future cold weather ice or alpine climbing adventures.

Colored Down Puts The Fun In Function

Alongside the newly popular water resistant down, numerous outdoor brands appear to be capitalizing on a colored down trend to add a little individuality to their apparel lines. Why not have down feathers function as a fashion element in addition to a simple insulating filler? 

The Future Of Down Looks Dry

UK company Berghaus made the first move towards water resistant down with their Mount Asgard Hybrid Jacket launch last fall. Now Sierra Designs has jumped on board with their new DriDown technology, working to eliminate one of down's main shortcomings.