Back in 1993, nine intrepid explorers broke away from the company at which they had met to pursue a shared dream. The dream was to push boundaries; to create clothing for the mountain, not the masses, and to open up the world for the people who wore it. Thirty-two years later, that dream grew into what we know today as Mountain Hardwear.
Born from a desire to seek wilder paths, the performance wear powerhouse has carved out a distinctive niche catalyzed by constant experimentation. And the exciting new chapter in the Mountain Hardwear story is no departure from this; with its trailblazing Broad Spectrum collection, a refreshed era of clothing made for explorers has officially begun.
While outdoor gear continues to dominate style conversations, it’s important to remember that the category centers on functionality. A day on the trail or a bare rock face is not only exhausting but potentially dangerous. While we can all enjoy a bit of time outdoors, too much fun in the sun without proper precautions can have harmful consequences. Mountain Hardwear’s Broad Spectrum collection underlines the core purpose of a high-performance kit: protection.
The innovative sun-blocking capsule goes beyond functionality; its sheer versatility emerges as a defining factor. Designed by people who understand the outdoor lifestyle, each piece has been meticulously developed for flawless application in any scenario—whether wild or domestic.
Take the Sunshield Hoody as a case study: this new arrival to the Broad Spectrum collection acts as a super-lightweight mobile sun shelter. Combining broad-spectrum protection with plant-based HeiQ Mint anti-odor treatment, it not only filters out harsh UVA and UVB rays but ensures the wearer feels fresh in extreme conditions. Central to the hoody’s performance acumen is the hood itself, which perfectly embodies the Mountain Hardwear modus operandi: Beauty lies in the details, and it’s these small details that make all the difference in the wild. The three-piece construction takes inspiration from scuba hoods, zipping high up the neck to minimize the opening and, therefore, maximize the protection of sensitive zones. Fashioned from a durable stretch fabric, the protective shape offers no restriction of movement or vision in high-effort areas.
Beyond technical prowess, the collection leaves an indelible imprint with its singular aesthetic. Imagined in a range of bold hues, Broad Spectrum actualizes in dusty purples and blues alongside earthier tones for the explorer who prefers a more low-key kit. Look to the Crater Lake lineup for head-turning gear, though. Finished with psychedelic prints, these pieces align perfectly with the brand’s bold vision, appealing to experienced adventurers and style-forward hobbyists alike.
Therein lies the undying appeal of Mountain Hardwear. During its three decades of life, the label has continued with a headstrong purpose to develop gear that prioritizes performance while always keeping an eye on aesthetic value. This utilitarian mindset is distilled in the latest collection. Premium, advanced construction is balanced masterfully with colorways and prints that appeal to the ever-growing community hunting for the best technical clothing available.
Head to mountainhardwear.com to shop the new Broad Spectrum collection.
