Outdoor Research
How to Care for Your Outdoor Research Gear and Apparel
Protect the performance, comfort, and lifetime of your gear.
Technical outerwear, gloves, and bivy sacks are gear investments that will last for years with proper care. Regular maintenance extends product life and revitalizes weatherproofing, breathability, and insulation performance.
Why Wash Your Outerwear?
Better performance.
Cleaning removes dirt, oils and residue that can mask DWR and reduce breathability.
Extend the life of your gear.
Routine maintenance helps technical fabrics and insulation keep performing season after season.
Reduce waste and environmental footprint.
Keeping existing gear in use is one of the most effective choices you can make.
Save money.
Care is a small investment that protects the gear you already own.
Hard Shell and Soft Shell Outerwear
Hard shells create a waterproof, breathable barrier against wind, snow and rain. Soft shells offer stretch and comfort for active days. Use an outerwear-specific cleaner and follow the care label to preserve performance.
Down
Down provides exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio and packability. Cleaning can revive loft after extended wear. Use a front-loading machine or a top-loader without an agitator.
Synthetic Insulation
Synthetic insulation is generally easier to care for and can be cleaned using the same principles as hard and soft shell outerwear.
Gloves and Gear
Gloves, tents, rain flies and bivy sacks deserve the same attention as outerwear. Use technical cleaners and avoid conventional detergents.