OUTERWEAR 2022

OUTERWEAR

by Peter B. Mathiesen

Though supply side issues remain, dealers can expect increased consumer demand to drive sales.

At the close of 2021, most retailers had low to moderate inventory across the outwear category. Despite the challenges from year two of Covid-19, consumers seemed less price sensitive, and dealers reported high sales across the board of in-stock inventory. On the manufacturing front, production in Brazil, India and Vietnam continued to increase compared to the first year of the pandemic. China spent much of the year playing catch up with deep backorders from U.S. manufacturers. Although overall production of goods improved, problems at the Port of Los Angeles strained the patience of many manufacturers, distributors and retailers. All that said, look for a strong 2022 with a higher demand for finished goods from consumers throughout the year.

The Stratos 1⁄4-Zip is a cold-weather mid-layer. Constructed from a durable polyester and elastane blend, it provides a comfortable, functional stretch fit for work or play. The anti-odor material wicks heat-robbing moisture away, making this top ideal for training and backcountry trips.

The zip front closure features a protective chin guard. A brushed tricot-lined collar and raglan sleeves add comfort to this versatile quarter-zip top. Available for both men and women, colors include Ox Blood, Peacoat and black, sizes S-XL. MSRP: $70.

Booth #13162

(511tactical.com)

ARCTERYX LEAF

The Patrol Pant AR is a duty pant that delivers impressive comfort. The four-way stretch double-weave is finished with a water-resistant DWR for waterproofing and stain protection. A thoughtful gusseted crotch increases comfort by allowing a full range of unrestricted motion. The cuffs use a draw-cord ankle closure with a vertical retention tunnel. This adjustment allows pants to be worn tightly with boots. The belt loops enhance the use the Arcteryx LEAF Rigger’s system. Sewn into the waistline, the equipment-retention loops secure carriage of mission-essential items in the hand and seat pockets.

Two Velcro flap back cargo pockets allow for dump-pocket compatibility. The front internal folding knife pocket compartment allows secure carriage for a standard folding knife. Logos and individual IDs are displayed easily via a waterproof TuffLabel.

This general-purpose softshell pant can be worn in conjunction with the Arcteryx Patrol Jacket AR as a uniform for law enforcement and other end users. Available in Gray Wolf and Ranger Green, sizes XS-2XT. MSRP: $200. Booth #75417

(leaf.arcteryx.com)

OUTERWEAR

2022

BROWNING

The Upland sweater is the ideal middle ground for comfort on cool days. Windproof, it has a rugged exterior, making it the perfect choice when an outershell is too restrictive or too hot. Constructed from 100-percent polyester, the sweater adds 70D polyester/nylon to the sleeves and elbows, improving long-term durability and adding waterproof coverage. Brown with orange trim. Sizes S-XXXL. MSRP: $104.99. Booth #10938

(browning.com)

BUFFALO OUTDOORS

The stylish Leather Biker vest is a comfortable leather vest specifically designed for concealed carry. It features a secure left inside concealedcarry gun pocket with elastic holster and uses a two-snap closure. The outside has two horizontal front pockets. The front uses four matteblack snap buttons to close the vest.

The vest is has a 100-percent-genuine leather shell with a polyester lining. Dry cleaning is required. Sizes L-4XL. MSRP: $49.99.

Booth #80808

(buffalooutdoorsclothing.com)

GLACIER GLOVE

The popular Alaska Pro Series, now in Realtree Edge, has been redesigned with a focus on warmth and dexterity. Blending the feel of a shooting glove with the warmth of a winter glove, the Alaska Pro is a high-performing coldweather glove. It features a merino wool lining and a waterproof breathable membrane, and the silicone pattern on the palm provides an enhanced non-slip grip. The three-layer design, bonded via a micro-dotting lamination process, eliminates the shifting between layers traditionally associated with insulated gloves. This glove is compatible for touch screens — iPhones, Androids, iPads and other electronic devices. Sizes S-XL. MSRP: $54.99. Booth #43050

(glacierglove.com)

KINGS CAMO

The XKG Transition Flex jacket combines lightweight stretch nylon and Thermolite insulation to deliver a mid-weight insulating layer. The Thermolite insulation offers impressive levels of warmth with a quick drying time. Paired with the stretch outer fabric, the jacket is filled with 130 grams of insulation in the body and 100 grams of insulation in the sleeves. This combo provides less bulky layering and a better range of motion.

The soft, air-permeable outer nylon fabric allows moisture to escape. Meanwhile, the DWR coating protects the wearer from light rain. The snug-fitting hood delivers low-profile warmth and good visibility. The jacket uses a stretch nylon outer fabric with two chest and two side hand pockets. The low-profile cuffs keep drafts out, as does the elastic drawstring waist. MSRP: $249. Booth #72918

(kingscamo.com)

MINUS33

Warm and functional, this Australian merino wool midweight balaclava combines the benefits of a hat and neck gaiter into one. Great for use under a hat or jacket hood, you can cover your head, ears and mouth on the coldest of days. Easily pulled back, just utilize the neck covering if the temperatures rise. Comes in 19 colors. MSRP: $25.99. Booth #41130

(minus33.com)

OUTDOOR RESEARCH

The Hybrid-Mapped construction found in OR’s nylon/spandex Maritime pants places key fabrics in specific locations to counter abrasion and enhance comfort. A special pocket-stabilizing internal harness helps the user maintain balance by keeping loads stationary and in place. SuperFabric construction at the knees and seat allows for abrasion-resistant stretch. Other features include a stabilizing internal harness yoke, zip hand pockets, universal knee-pad compartments, padded waist, bottom hem draw cord, mesh internal PKT drain ports and a field-repairable button fly. Sizes S-XL. MSRP: $600. Booth #41457

(outdoorresearch.com)

CERTIFIED TO PROTECT & PERFORM

Fully certified to perform to the world’s most stringent PPE standards, the new Combat Boot MK2 GTX and Breacher S Mid are built with proprietary LOWA AS® technology for proven ankle protection. They are handcrafted in Germany and feature LOWA’s renowned attention to detail and superb, high quality materials such as the new slip-, heat- & fuel oil- resistant VIBRAM® VANGUARD outsole.

NEW - COMBAT BOOT MK2 GTX NEW - BREACHER S MID

NEW BOOTH #10162 Visit our new booth to see the LOWA 2022 Hunting & Task Force Collections

The new Combat Boot MK2 GTX and Breacher S Mid have been tested and certifi ed according to European Union (EU) PPE Regulations (2020). PPE regulations cover the design, manufacture and marketing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). They defi ne the legal obligations required to ensure that PPE on the EU internal market (the European Economic Area, known as the EEA) provide the highest level of protection against risks.

GORE-TEX, GTX, GORE, and GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY and design are registered trademarks of W.L. Gore & Associates Inc. VIBRAM®, the Octagon Logo, and the Yellow Octagon Logo and the color Canary Yellow are registered trademarks of Vibram S.p.A. © 2021 LOWA Boots, LLC.