Category

Clothing

29/09/2026

CHOOSING THE RIGHT GEAR FOR THE RIGHT ADVENTURE.

Outdoor expeditions demand good gear. From mountain ascents to Wainwright challenges, your gear keeps you comfortable, warm, dry and safe. But, there’s an abundance of outdoor equipment brands! So how do we know what to choose? What’s the best gear for each adventure? What is actually worth your money? Let’s talk about it. Choosing the ‘right’ piece of gear can be overwhelming when there are so many brands that offer so many great products. When looking at equipping your adventures, things like durability, fit, price, reliability and warranty are a... Read More

02/02/2026

Best Softshell Jackets for Hiking in 2026

Softshell jackets often sit in a confusing grey area for outdoor gear buyers. They aren’t quite a waterproof hardshell, nor are they a standard fleece. Choosing the wrong one means you either end up overheating on a steep ascent or getting soaked through because you mistook “water-resistant” for “waterproof.” At Outdoor Action, we’ve spent decades kitting people out for unpredictable weather on their outdoor adventures. We know that a good softshell is arguably the most versatile piece of kit you can own—if you pick the right one. We have selected... Read More

22/12/2025

Down vs. Synthetic Jackets: The Essential Comparison

TL;DRChoose Down If: You need the absolute lightest and warmest jacket possible for dry, cold weather (e.g., static camping, high-altitude backpacking) where packability is essential. (Requires careful cleaning.)Choose Synthetic If: You need a jacket that retains warmth when wet and dries quickly (ideal for rain, snow, or high-sweat activities like winter hiking). It can also be cheaper and easier to care for. The right insulated jacket is an important piece of gear for anyone spending time outdoors. The primary decision comes down to whether you want a natural down jacket... Read More

09/05/2025

What Is Gorpcore? The Rise of Outdoor-Inspired Street Style

Whether you’re wandering through the Lake District or queuing for a flat white on your commute, Gorpcore is everywhere. It’s that unmistakable blend of technical outerwear, chunky trail shoes, and weatherproof fabrics that look just as at home in the city as they do in the great outdoors. But what is Gorpcore, really? And how can you create your own Gorpcore look? Let’s break it all down. Contents What is Gorpcore? What does Gorpcore stand for? Where did Gorpcore come from? Core elements of the Gorpcore look How to style... Read More

03/12/2024
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What To Wear Hiking in Cooler Weather: The Ultimate Guide

When hiking in the cooler seasons, you can start the morning with crisp sunshine, trail through a downpour, and return to sunshine by the afternoon.  While the orange leaves and red-hued scenery create some breathtaking views, you don’t want the unpredictable changeable weather to get in the way of your hike.  Deciding what to wear for hiking to strike a balance between warmth and breathability can be tricky, but by layering up and choosing the right clothing fabrics, you can enjoy your walk whilst staying prepared for unpredictable weather changes.... Read More

Ventile Cotton Fabric – For Outdoor Clothing

Ventile® stands out as a weatherproof fabric that achieves its remarkable properties without the need for coatings or laminations. The dense weave and the swelling tendencies of its fibers when wet contribute to excellent weatherproofing. This entirely natural product not only delivers a distinctive level of comfort, appearance, and tactile experience but also boasts windproof, highly breathable, exceptionally durable, and quiet qualities. Widely employed in some of the world’s premier outerwear performance garments, Ventile® extends its applications to military, medical, and workwear domains. And to top it off, they present... Read More

04/12/2023

Understanding PFC-Free Durable Water Repellent (DWR): What It Means for Your Waterproof Clothing

The outdoor clothing industry has recently undergone a major shift in how it manufactures waterproof gear. To address environmental concerns, brands have moved away from traditional perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) in their Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatments.  While this is a necessary step for the environment, it directly impacts how your waterproof jackets and trousers perform and the maintenance they require. This guide explains exactly what PFC-free means, why the change happened, and the practical steps you must take to keep your gear weather-ready. Jump To: What is DWR? A chemical... Read More

10/10/2023

Understanding Buffalo Systems Pertex & Pile Clothing

When it comes to outdoor adventures in harsh weather conditions, having the right gear can make all the difference between an enjoyable experience and a miserable one. One of the most innovative and effective combinations in the world of outdoor apparel is the Buffalo System, which combines Pertex and Pile fabric technologies.  In this blog post, we’ll explore the magic of the Buffalo System, shedding light on the unique features and benefits of Pertex and Pile fabrics when used in tandem. Jump to: What is the Buffalo System? A proven,... Read More

03/10/2023

How to Clean and Reproof your Waterproof Jacket

Frequency: Wash when water stops beading or every 3 months of heavy use.Key Rule: Never use household detergents; they destroy Durable Water-Repellant (DWR) coatings.The Process: Use technical cleaners (Nikwax/Grangers), then reactivate DWR with low heat. Your waterproof jacket is your trusted companion in the battle against the elements. Whether you’re braving a torrential downpour or facing a relentless mountain storm, this essential piece of outdoor gear keeps you dry and comfortable.  However, over time, even the most robust waterproof jackets can lose their effectiveness. That’s where cleaning and re-waterproofing come... Read More

30/09/2023

Craghoppers CO2RENU – Sustainable outdoor clothing

Shop Now The CO2RENU Clothing Range In an era where environmental consciousness is at the forefront of consumer concerns, sustainable practices have become a key factor in the success of any industry. Craghoppers, a renowned name in outdoor apparel, has taken a pioneering step toward a greener future with its innovative CO2RENU technology. This groundbreaking initiative not only demonstrates Craghoppers’ commitment to sustainability but also sets a new standard for environmentally responsible manufacturing in the outdoor apparel sector. The CO2RENU Technology: Craghoppers CO2RENU technology is a revolutionary approach to reducing... Read More