We had a chance to check out the new products from Mountain Hardwear at Outdoor Retailer Winter Market last month. They will be introducing a ton of new products for the Fall 2010 season. Here are just a few of our favorites.
Emporia Jacket
This women’s alpine jacket is designed with mountaineering in mind. Constructed with Gore-Tex Pro Shell and micro-taped seams, it provides breathability and durability, while only weighing 16 ounces. Waterproof zippered pockets are strategically placed to accommodate climbing harnesses and packs. It also features a helmet-compatible hood with single-pull adjustment and a women’s-specific trim cut. MSRP $500.
Axial Jacket
This alpine/mountaineering jacket for men shares similar features to the women’s Emporia jacket, but with a trim, men’s-specific cut, making it perfect for activities like ice climbing. Weighing in at 17 ounces, the Gore-Tex Pro Shell and micro-taped seams help to keep weight and bulk to a minimum. Extra-long pit zips provide ventilation for long days on the mountain. Articulated sleeves provide mobility and a helmet-compatible hood with brim keeps the elements out. MSRP $475.
Baselayer Technology
Mountain Hardwear has so many baselayer models, it’s hard to choose just one. But what makes them stand out is the construction and materials they are using. The hybrid merino wool and polyester fabric is utilized to provide the wearer with the benefits of both materials. Merino provides warmth and softness, and the polyester helps wick moisture away from your body. In addition, they have used their MicroClimate Zoning construction technology, which places mesh fabric in the locations that need the most breathability (underarms).
Medusa Glove
Many of the glove and mitt styles from MHW are featuring OutDry Waterproof Technology. During the construction process, the OutDry membrane is bonded to the exterior of the glove, providing a very waterproof and windproof finish. The Medusa glove has a water resistant goatskin leather palm, fleece lining, and stretch fabric over the knuckles for extra mobility. It also comes with a removable fleece liner glove. This is a glove that is perfect for high-altitude mountaineering. MSRP $140.
Updated pack suspensions and frames
At OR Mountain Hardwear introduced their CoolWave Suspension system, which will be featured on many of their internal frame pack styles. CoolWave utilizes their HardWave framesheet to provide stability, flexibilty, and support in the back panel. The framesheet is corrugated, which allows for flexibilty along the vertical plane, but rigidity along the horizontal plane, eliminating roll-out from stuffed-to-capacity packs.
