The big story from Bergans of Norway at the 2012 Outdoor Retailer Winter Market is that they are expanding their reach into the U.S. Market. Some select gear has been sold in higher end stores, but in 2012, the company has plans to offer their high quality outerwear in many more venues. After perusing the selection of technical jackets and pants from Bergans of Norway, I’d say that’s a good thing.
Among the tens-of-dozens of garments on display at the Bergans of Norway booth, the following caught my eye. First up is the Isogaisa Jacket, a lightweight, technical jacket made from 3-layer “New Generation Dermizax.” Dermizax is a membrane that is waterproof and windproof, that the company says wicks perspiration at double the capability of other waterproof/breathable fabrics.
The Isogaisa has 4-way stretch, extended back, fixed hood big enough for helmets and asymmetrical closing zipper in the front to keep metal away from the chin. Also included are lots of pockets (front, chest, sleeve, interior and goggle pocket lined with mesh for extra ventilation. Plus, there’s also an eyelet for headphones (MP3 player), goggles wiper and underarm zip vents. A detachable snowskirt can be combined with compatible pants to form a whole suit. As if that isn’t enough this super-technical shell has a Recco reflector.
A couple of down jackets from Bergans looked really killer, like the Myre Down Jacket. It’s your typical light weight down puffy with a thin windproof and water-repellent outer shell with extended back and fixed hood. Its 700-fill compresses down snug and can be stuffed into its own pocket. Sleeves are elastic with thumb holes on the cuffs for added warmth. But the kicker is softshell side panels and underarms to increase breathability and range of motion, making this look like the ideal mid-layer for cold, active days.
Another looker in the down category was the Vinje Wool Down Jacket. It’s a 500-fill puffy with a nice wool exterior so you won’t look like you’re wearing a garbage bag around town. The wool is thick, blocks the wind, and just looks plain fancy. It also has the extended back to keep the cold off your bum, elastic cuffs, front and inner pockets, and an eyelet for headphone cords.
In the pants category, the Sirdal Pants had the skier in me salivating. These lightweight, technical pants made from the same 3-layer New Generation Dermizax as the Isogaisa jacket. They have 4-way stretch, high-waisted back panel, jacket-compatible connection system and detachable, adjustable suspenders. For touring, they feature ventilation zips outside the thighs and zip from the knee down. The attention to detail on these pants is impressive, with tailored, articulated knees, reinforced sections on the inside of the legs, Velcro adjustments at the ankles to keep snow from getting inside your ski boots, internal gaiter with friction elastic, laser-cut, welded seams and a Recco reflector.
All of these jackets and pants come in men’s and women’s sizes. Expect to see a lot more of Bergans of Norway in outdoor retail store starting this summer and fall. For more, visit them at www.bergansofnorway.com
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