sportstyle

I t is not unusual anymore for one day to be 70 degrees, and the next, snowing. Sometimes it can seem as if seasons have disappeared. A walk or ride to work can be completely different than the trek home, temperature and sunlight-wise. With climate uncertainty in mind, we asked brands how they design and market gear for head to toe weather protection. Safeguarding Apparel "With a focus on workwear, our consumer has always layered. They may leave the house before it gets light out and then it warms up throughout the day. We are putting effort into designing more comfortable layering pieces. We have moved to more synthetic blends, added stretch and have gone lighter in weight. But the foundation of our brand is durability." — Deb Ferraro, VP global product development and technical design, Carhartt. Carhartt recently reworked its SuperDux line, which was launched in 1930 by Hamilton Carhartt's son, Wylie Carhartt, as a waterproof option for hunters and fishermen. Each piece in the new SuperDux line features Carhartt's Rugged Flex (for stretch/movement), Rain Defender and Wind Fighter technology. Styles have the look of traditional duck with either a lighter nylon fabric (35 percent weight reduction) plus 3M Thinsulate or a nylon stretch shell laminated with a dense Sherpa. Bib Overalls feature Cordura reinforced kick panels. "We see customers moving to products that offer versatility. From jackets that can be worn on a run or to the store, to baselayers that perform and are fun to wear as a stand-alone piece. But consumers are still demanding the performance in these products. We are offering wind and water protection in more styles and categories – high end performance and everyday pieces." — Jon Howard, director of consumer sales and marketing, Craft Sportswear Craft launched in the baselayer category over 40 years ago, so the brand knows next-to-skin apparel. From there, layers allow the wearer to breathe and regulate body temperature. The ADV Essence Hydro Jacket features a waterproof three-layer recycled fabric capable for high-output activity, taped seams and VentAir wind fabric. An adjustable hood with visor protects from the rain. As part of the Essence Collection, it has a slightly more generous fit for layering or everyday use. Weather Report Carhartt SuperDux 48 • January/February 2023 sportstyle • sportstylemag.com How Brands are Combating Climate Uncertainty with Style & Substance. By Suzanne Blecher DESIGN / CROSS-FUNCTIONAL FABRICS

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