It’s time to answer the ultimate question: is Mountain Hardwear a good brand? Most outdoor enthusiasts would argue that yes, it is. But what makes it stand out amongst countless other outdoor apparel companies? Is it the quality of their products? Or, perhaps it’s their dedication to environmentally sustainable practices. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Mountain Hardwear a top contender in the outdoor apparel industry.
For those who prioritize quality over everything else, Mountain Hardwear products are just what they’re looking for. Their clothing is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions while keeping the wearer comfortable and protected. Whether you’re planning a hiking trip in the mountains or a camping trip in the woods, MH has got your back with their sturdy gear. They also offer a wide range of products, from jackets to backpacks, each made from high-quality materials that are built to last.
Another reason to consider Mountain Hardwear as a good brand is their commitment to sustainability. As outdoor enthusiasts, we recognize the importance of preserving the environment we love so much. Mountain Hardwear takes this responsibility seriously by using recycled materials, minimizing waste, and supporting conservation efforts. This means you can feel good about investing in their products knowing that they’re making an effort to reduce their environmental impact. Overall, Mountain Hardwear offers quality, durable products with a conscience – making them a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors.
History of Mountain Hardwear
Mountain Hardwear is a well-known outdoor apparel and equipment brand that has been in operation for over 25 years. The company was established in 1993 by a group of former employees of Sierra Designs, another popular outdoor gear company. Mountain Hardwear quickly made a name for itself in the outdoor world, known for creating high-quality, innovative outdoor gear that could withstand the toughest conditions.
The brand’s early success was due in part to its unique approach to product development. The company placed a strong emphasis on research and development, working closely with athletes, designers, and engineers to create gear that was not only functional but also stylish and comfortable. Mountain Hardwear also invested heavily in the latest technologies and materials to create products that were both durable and lightweight.
- Mountain Hardwear’s first product was the Exposure Parka, a groundbreaking design that used a waterproof-breathable fabric called Gore-Tex. The Exposure Parka quickly became a must-have item for outdoor enthusiasts, and helped establish Mountain Hardwear as a brand that was serious about producing high-performance gear.
- In the years that followed, Mountain Hardwear continued to innovate and expand its product line. The company introduced a wide range of products, including tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, and more. The brand also became known for its high-quality clothing, including jackets, pants, and base layers.
- Today, Mountain Hardwear is known for its technical clothing and equipment that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, climbers, hikers, and more. The brand continues to push the boundaries of innovation and style, and is committed to creating products that inspire people to explore the outdoors.
Throughout its history, Mountain Hardwear has remained committed to its core values of innovation, quality, and sustainability. The brand is constantly exploring new ways to reduce its environmental impact, from using recycled materials to implementing sustainable manufacturing practices. By staying true to these values, Mountain Hardwear has become a trusted brand among outdoor enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
Popular products by Mountain Hardwear
Mountain Hardwear is a reputable brand that creates high-quality outdoor gear that can withstand the toughest of terrains. They’re well-known for their durable and innovative product line that caters to the adventurer in all of us. Here are some of their most popular products:
- Ghost Whisperer Down Jacket – This jacket is lightweight, warm, and highly compressible making it an ideal outer layer for cold weather activities. The 800-fill down insulation is incredibly warm, and the jacket can be packed into its pocket for easy storage.
- Scrambler 30 OutDry Backpack – This backpack has a waterproof membrane that keeps your gear dry in the wettest of conditions. Its roll-top closure ensures that water doesn’t seep through the seams, and the backpack can expand to accommodate more gear if needed.
- StretchDown Jacket – The StretchDown Jacket has a unique stretch-welded construction that traps warmth and moves with you. The jacket is also treated with a DWR finish that sheds light rain and snow, making it an excellent option for wet conditions.
Innovative materials used by Mountain Hardwear
Mountain Hardwear often pushes the envelope when it comes to material innovation. They incorporate science and technology into the design and construction of their products without compromising on durability and performance.
One such material is Dyneema, which is known as the world’s strongest fiber. Mountain Hardwear uses Dyneema in their Ghost Whisperer 2 Jacket and other products to make them stronger and more durable. This ultra-lightweight, high-tech fabric enables them to produce products that are both highly functional and extremely lightweight, making them ideal for ultralight backpacking trips.
Table of Mountain Hardwear’s Temperature Ratings
Mountain Hardwear rates their sleeping bags using temperature ratings developed by the European Norm (EN) organization. This rating system is a standardized method that determines the lowest temperature a sleeping bag can handle, based on three different measurements. The Comfort Rating is the lowest temperature a sleeping bag can handle while providing a comfortable sleep. The Lower Limit is the temperature at which a person can sleep for eight hours without waking up cold. Finally, the Extreme Rating is the lowest temperature at which a sleeping bag can provide enough warmth to prevent hypothermia.
| Sleeping Bag Model | Comfort (°F) | Lower Limit (°F) | Extreme (°F) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phantom 0F/-18C | 8°F / -13°C | -7°F / -22°C | -52°F / -47°C |
| Phantom 15F/-9C | 26°F / -3°C | 14°F / -10°C | -39°F / -39°C |
| Lamina Eco AF 15F/-9C | 30°F / -1°C | 18°F / -8°C | -17°F / -27°C |
If you’re planning on going on a cold-weather adventure, choosing the right sleeping bag is essential to staying safe in the great outdoors. Mountain Hardwear’s temperature rating table is a useful tool that can help you determine which sleeping bag will keep you warm and comfortable.
Sustainability efforts of Mountain Hardwear
Mountain Hardwear is a brand that takes sustainability seriously and has been making great strides towards minimizing their environmental impact. They recognize that our planet is facing numerous challenges, and they are taking action to ensure they do their part in protecting it.
- Reducing their carbon footprint: Mountain Hardwear has made a commitment to reducing their carbon emissions by adopting sustainable practices, such as using clean energy sources like wind and solar energy. They have also optimized their shipping and transportation methods to minimize their carbon footprint. By 2023, Mountain Hardwear aims to reduce their absolute carbon emissions by 30 percent, and by 2030, they plan to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.
- Using eco-friendly materials: Mountain Hardwear has also taken steps towards using eco-friendly materials in their products. They have partnered with bluesign® to ensure that their materials are environmentally friendly and safe for workers. They also use recycled and organic materials in their products to reduce waste and minimize their environmental impact.
- Taking back used products: Mountain Hardwear’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond their products’ production stage. They have a program called Close the Loop, which allows customers to return their used gear for recycling or repurposing. This program ensures that Mountain Hardwear products do not contribute to landfills and waste streams.
Other sustainability efforts of Mountain Hardwear
In addition to the above efforts, Mountain Hardwear is taking other actions towards sustainability:
- They have joined the Climate Neutral Certified program, which verifies their carbon footprint reduction efforts and supports the brand in offset projects resulting in a net-zero carbon footprint.
- Mountain Hardwear has set a goal of using 90% recycled materials in their products by 2022.
- They ensure their packaging and point-of-purchase displays, and marketing materials are made up of 100% FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council) certified paper or wood-based materials only with leftover and waste materials recycled.
Mountain Hardwear Sustainability Report
Mountain Hardwear is transparent about their sustainability efforts and their impact on the environment. They publish a yearly sustainability report that details their progress towards sustainability. In their 2020 sustainability report, Mountain Hardwear outlined their efforts towards the reduction of carbon emissions, adoption of sustainable practices, use of eco-friendly materials, and the Close the Loop program. The brand also highlighted their social responsibility by integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion, safe working conditions, and responsible sourcing into their sustainability efforts.
| Effort | Goal | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Reduce carbon emissions | 30% absolute reduction of carbon emissions | By 2023 |
| Use eco-friendly materials | 90% recycled materials in their products | By 2022 |
| Reduce waste | Zero waste to landfill | By 2025 |
Overall, Mountain Hardwear is a brand that is committed to sustainability, and they are taking concrete actions to ensure that they minimize their environmental impact. By adopting sustainable practices, using eco-friendly materials, taking back used items, and publishing yearly sustainability reports, Mountain Hardwear is a brand that can be trusted to care for our planet.
Ethical production practices of Mountain Hardwear
Mountain Hardwear is a brand that prides itself on its commitment to ethical production practices. The company recognizes the importance of conducting business in a responsible and sustainable manner, and takes steps to ensure that its products are produced with ethical considerations in mind.
- Working Conditions: The company requires all of its suppliers to adhere to strict standards when it comes to working conditions. This means that workers must be treated fairly, and must be provided with safe and healthy working environments.
- Environmental Responsibility: Mountain Hardwear is committed to minimizing the environmental impact of its production processes. The company uses environmentally-friendly materials whenever possible, and works to reduce waste and energy consumption throughout its operations.
- Supply Chain Transparency: Mountain Hardwear believes that transparency is key to ensuring ethical production practices. The company works closely with its suppliers to ensure that they are operating in an ethical and sustainable manner, and requires them to provide detailed information about their practices and processes.
In addition to these measures, Mountain Hardwear also works with third-party organizations to monitor its supply chain and ensure that ethical production practices are being followed. The company is a member of the Fair Labor Association (FLA), an organization that works to improve working conditions in factories around the world.
Overall, Mountain Hardwear’s commitment to ethical production practices sets it apart from many other brands in the outdoor industry. By prioritizing the well-being of workers and the environment, the company is working to create a more sustainable and responsible future for all.
Performance features of Mountain Hardwear products
Mountain Hardwear is a brand that provides high-performance outdoor apparel and equipment for all types of outdoor adventures. Their products are designed to withstand various weather conditions while providing comfort and functionality to the user. Here are some of the performance features of Mountain Hardwear products:
- Durability: Mountain Hardwear products are made with high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the toughest outdoor conditions. They are resistant to abrasions and tears, ensuring that your gear will last for many adventures to come.
- Weather resistance: Mountain Hardwear products are designed to protect you from various weather conditions. Their clothing is made with waterproof and breathable materials such as GORE-TEX®, Dry.Q®, and Conduit™ technology to keep you dry and comfortable during rainy or snowy days.
- Comfort: Mountain Hardwear products are designed for comfort. Their clothing features stretchy and breathable fabrics that allow for ease of movement, and their sleeping bags and tents are designed to provide a comfortable sleeping experience throughout the night.
In addition to the features mentioned above, Mountain Hardwear also incorporates advanced technologies into their products to enhance their performance. Here are some examples:
Q.Shield® DOWN: This technology is used in Mountain Hardwear’s down jackets and sleeping bags. Q.Shield® DOWN is a moisture-resistant treatment that helps the down insulation retain its loft and warmth even when wet.
Thermal.Q™ Elite: This technology is used in Mountain Hardwear’s synthetic insulation. Thermal.Q™ Elite mimics the structure of down insulation to create small air pockets that trap body heat. This technology provides excellent warmth and compressibility.
OutDry® technology: This technology is used in Mountain Hardwear’s gloves and footwear. OutDry® is a waterproof and breathable membrane that is bonded directly to the glove or shoe, eliminating the need for a separate waterproof liner. This creates a more comfortable and dexterous fit.
| Technology | Product |
|---|---|
| Q.Shield® DOWN | Ghost Whisperer Down Jacket, Phantom Sleeping Bag |
| Thermal.Q™ Elite | StretchDown Jacket, Lamina Sleeping Bag |
| OutDry® | Scrambler™ RT 35 OutDry® Backpack, Absolute Zero™ Mitt |
Overall, Mountain Hardwear products are designed with high-performance features to help users get the most out of their outdoor experiences. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or mountaineering, Mountain Hardwear has a product that can withstand the toughest outdoor conditions while providing comfort and functionality.
Comparison of Mountain Hardwear with other outdoor brands
Mountain Hardwear is a beloved brand by outdoor enthusiasts all over the world who need high-performance clothing and equipment. While Mountain Hardwear isn’t the only brand that makes exceptional outdoor gear, it’s one of the most well-known. The following are some comparisons of Mountain Hardwear with other outdoor brands:
- Patagonia: Just like Mountain Hardwear, Patagonia is known for producing high-quality outdoor gear that’s both durable and long-lasting. Both brands offer a similar range of products at a similar price point, but Patagonia tends to be more environmentally-conscious, with a wider variety of sustainable materials in their products.
- The North Face: The North Face is another popular outdoor brand that’s often compared to Mountain Hardwear. Both brands offer a range of outdoor gear and clothing at a similar price point, but Mountain Hardwear tends to have a slightly less trendy aesthetic than The North Face.
- Columbia Sportswear: Mountain Hardwear is actually a subsidiary of Columbia Sportswear, so it’s no surprise that the two brands share many similarities. Columbia specializes in a wider range of outdoor and active wear for everyday use, while Mountain Hardwear tends to produce more technical clothing.
When choosing an outdoor brand, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences. While there are many brands to choose from, Mountain Hardwear stands out as one of the top performers in terms of quality and performance. Their gear is constructed with cutting-edge materials and designs to ensure functionality, durability, and comfort.
Conclusion
Mountain Hardwear is a brand that’s respected and trusted by outdoor enthusiasts across the globe. While there are other outdoor brands that offer similar gear and apparel, Mountain Hardwear is known for their commitment to innovation, functionality, and style. Whether you’re planning a winter expedition or a weekend camping trip, Mountain Hardwear has the gear and apparel you need to stay comfortable, safe, and adventurous.
Athletes and Influencers Associated with Mountain Hardwear
Mountain Hardwear is a brand that has gained recognition and popularity in the outdoor industry over the years. It is a brand that has been trusted and used by athletes and influencers who are at the top of their game. Here are some of the notable athletes and influencers that have been associated with Mountain Hardwear:
- Tim Emmett – a British ice climber and extreme sports athlete who is sponsored by Mountain Hardwear. He is known for his daring climbs and has set multiple records in the sport.
- Emily Harrington – a professional climber who has worked with Mountain Hardwear for years. She has accomplished multiple climbing feats including being the first woman to free climb the Golden Gate route on El Capitan in Yosemite National Park.
- Ueli Steck – a Swiss mountaineer who was sponsored by Mountain Hardwear. He was known for his speed climbing and was the first person to climb the south face of Annapurna in just 28 hours.
These athletes and influencers have proven the quality and durability of Mountain Hardwear products in some of the toughest environments. Their association with the brand has helped to build trust and credibility for Mountain Hardwear among outdoor enthusiasts.
Collaborations with Athletes and Influencers
Mountain Hardwear collaborates with athletes and influencers to create cutting-edge products that meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts. They work closely with these individuals to ensure that the products they design are functional and innovative.
For example, they partnered with renowned rock climber, BD Athlete and guide Conrad Anker to create the Hueco Collection, designed specifically for climbers and boulderers. The collection includes pants, shirts and hoodies that are stretchy and flexible, allowing for maximum movement during climbs.
Environmental Activism with Athletes and Influencers
Mountain Hardwear also collaborates with athletes and influencers on environmental initiatives. The brand believes in creating products that are eco-conscious and sustainable, and work towards minimizing their carbon footprint. They work with their athletes and influencers to spread awareness and advocate for environmental protection, preservation and climate action.
| Athlete/Influencer | Environmental Activism Work |
|---|---|
| Conrad Anker | He sits on the board of Protect Our Winters and is a passionate advocate for climate action. He has given many talks on climate change and its impact on the mountains. |
| Tim Emmett | He is an ambassador for the environmental non-profit, 5Gyres, which aims to reduce plastic pollution in our oceans. |
| Nikki Frumkin | She is a Mountain Hardwear athlete who is also a visual artist. She uses her art as a platform to draw attention to important environmental issues like climate change and habitat destruction. |
Mountain Hardwear is committed to working with individuals who share their values and are willing to join hands in protecting the environment.
Customer reviews of Mountain Hardwear products
When it comes to outdoor gear, it’s important to know what you’re buying and whether or not it’s worth the investment. That’s why customer reviews of Mountain Hardwear products are so valuable – they offer honest opinions and insights from people who have actually used the gear in real-world conditions. Here are some key takeaways from the customer reviews:
- Quality: One of the biggest themes in the customer reviews is the quality of the Mountain Hardwear products. Many customers rave about how durable and well-made the gear is, with some even saying that they’ve been using the same items for years with no signs of wear and tear.
- Comfort: Another common praise for Mountain Hardwear products is how comfortable they are to wear. Multiple customers have mentioned how lightweight and breathable the gear is, which makes it a great choice for activities like hiking, climbing, and camping.
- Fit: While some customers have found the sizing to be a bit off, most have had positive things to say about the fit of Mountain Hardwear products. Many reviewers note that the gear is designed to be functional and allows for a full range of motion, while also being flattering and stylish.
Of course, not all of the customer reviews are positive – there are certainly some complaints to be found as well. Some of the most common critiques include:
- Price: Mountain Hardwear products can be quite expensive, which is a turn-off for some customers. While many feel that the quality justifies the cost, others feel that there are comparable options on the market for a lower price.
- Issues with specific products: While Mountain Hardwear has a solid reputation overall, there are some products that seem to have more issues than others. For example, some customers have reported problems with zippers or seams on certain jackets or pants.
- Customer service: Finally, a few customers have had negative experiences with Mountain Hardwear’s customer service team. While this is certainly not the case for everyone, it’s worth noting that there are some reports of unresponsive or unhelpful interactions.
Overall, it seems that the majority of customers are very satisfied with Mountain Hardwear products – particularly when it comes to quality, comfort, and fit. However, as with any brand, there are some issues to be aware of before making a purchase. By reading through customer reviews and doing your research, you can ensure that you’re making an informed decision and choosing the right gear for your needs.
Innovative technologies incorporated into Mountain Hardwear products
As a brand that continuously pushes the limits of innovation, Mountain Hardwear incorporates cutting-edge technologies into their products to provide the best performance and comfort for their customers. Here are some of the innovative technologies that Mountain Hardwear products possess:
- Dry.Q™ Elite: This technology is a waterproof and breathable membrane that allows moisture to escape while keeping water from penetrating through the fabric. It is featured in Mountain Hardwear’s top-of-the-line rain jackets and pants.
- Thermal.Q™ Elite: A synthetic insulation made with unique fibers that mimic down and provide superior warmth and compressibility. It can be found in Mountain Hardwear’s most popular jackets and parkas.
- OutDry™: A technology that bonds a waterproof and breathable membrane directly onto the exterior layer of the fabric, creating a barrier against water and keeping the fabric dry. This technology is used in Mountain Hardwear’s gloves and backpacks.
In addition to these technologies, Mountain Hardwear also incorporates other innovative features into their products, such as:
- Stretch fabric for increased mobility and comfort
- Seam-taping for added waterproofing
- Zippers and pockets that are strategically placed for ease of access
Overall, Mountain Hardwear is a brand that prides itself on innovation and continuously strives to incorporate the latest technologies into their products to provide their customers with the best possible gear for their outdoor adventures.
Mountain Hardwear’s Technologies
| Technology | Featured Products |
|---|---|
| Dry.Q™ Elite | Rain jackets and pants |
| Thermal.Q™ Elite | Jackets and parkas |
| OutDry™ | Gloves and backpacks |
Mountain Hardwear’s commitment to innovation and the incorporation of these cutting-edge technologies into their products sets them apart in the outdoor industry, ensuring that their gear performs at the highest level possible.
Price range of Mountain Hardwear products.
Mountain Hardwear is a high-end brand that offers dependable and top-quality outdoor apparel and equipment. Their products are known for their durability and reliability in extreme conditions. With this reputation, it is only fair to expect a higher price range. Here is a breakdown of the price range for Mountain Hardwear products.
- Accessories: Mountain Hardwear offers a wide range of accessories such as hats, gloves, and scarves. These accessories range in price from $25 to $100.
- Tops: Mountain Hardwear offers a variety of tops including t-shirts, hoodies, and jackets. These range in price from $50 to $300.
- Bottoms: Mountain Hardwear offers different types of bottoms ranging from pants to shorts. These are priced from $60 to $300.
- Footwear: Mountain Hardwear has a collection of shoes, boots, and sandals. They are priced from $100 to $300.
- Gear: For camping and outdoor enthusiasts, Mountain Hardwear also has a range of gear that includes tents, sleeping bags, and backpacks. These range in price from $200 to $600.
However, Mountain Hardwear has a range of products for different budgets. There are affordable options for those who want to own a piece from the brand but do not want to spend too much money on outdoor gear. It is worth noting that the high-end prices reflect the brand’s commitment to providing quality and durable products that serve outdoor enthusiasts wherever they go.
The price range for Mountain Hardwear products may seem high compared to other brands. Still, the difference is justified given the quality and reliability that come standard with every Mountain Hardwear product.
| Product Type | Price Range ($) |
|---|---|
| Accessories | 25-100 |
| Tops | 50-300 |
| Bottoms | 60-300 |
| Footwear | 100-300 |
| Gear | 200-600 |
Overall, Mountain Hardwear is a great brand that provides top-quality outdoor products that are reliable and durable. While the price range may seem steep, it is worth it if you are looking for outdoor gear that will last you a long time and withstand extreme conditions.
FAQs about Is Mountain Hardwear a Good Brand
Q: Is Mountain Hardwear a well-known brand?
A: Yes, Mountain Hardwear is a well-known brand among outdoor enthusiasts.
Q: Does Mountain Hardwear make high-quality products?
A: Yes, Mountain Hardwear is known for its high-quality products that often incorporate advanced technologies.
Q: Are Mountain Hardwear products expensive?
A: While Mountain Hardwear products are not cheap, they are competitively priced for their quality and innovation.
Q: Is Mountain Hardwear committed to sustainable practices?
A: Yes, Mountain Hardwear is committed to sustainability and has implemented various initiatives in its production and packaging.
Q: Can I find Mountain Hardwear products in retail stores?
A: Yes, Mountain Hardwear products can be found in a variety of outdoor retailers as well as on the company’s website.
Q: Does Mountain Hardwear offer a warranty on its products?
A: Yes, Mountain Hardwear offers a limited lifetime warranty on its products.
Q: Are Mountain Hardwear products comfortable to wear?
A: Yes, Mountain Hardwear products are known for their comfort and fit, particularly in their base layers and insulated jackets.
Mountain Hardwear: A Brand for Outdoors Enthusiasts
Thank you for reading about Mountain Hardwear, a brand that is dedicated to creating high-quality and innovative outdoor gear for enthusiasts. With a commitment to sustainability and a focus on comfort and fit, Mountain Hardwear products are designed to help you tackle any adventure. Whether you’re backpacking, climbing, or camping, Mountain Hardwear has the gear you need to stay comfortable and protected. Thanks for visiting and come back again soon for more updates on outdoor brands!