Berghaus, an iconic British outdoor brand with a rich heritage dating back to the 1960s, is making significant inroads into the American market, bringing its renowned performance apparel and distinctive style to outdoor enthusiasts across the United States. Founded by two passionate climbers, Gordon Davison and Peter Lockey, who were driven by the need for superior gear when existing options fell short, Berghaus quickly established itself as a leader in innovative and durable outdoor clothing. Now, with its expansion into REI stores nationwide, American adventurers can experience the quality and design that have made Berghaus a favorite among mountaineers and urban trendsetters alike. This move marks a new chapter for the brand, offering a range of products designed to meet the demands of diverse outdoor pursuits, backed by an impressive unconditional guarantee.
The origins of Berghaus trace back to 1966 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, a time when pioneering climbers frequently found themselves limited by the available equipment. Davison and Lockey, unable to find suitable attire for their demanding alpine climbs and "hill scrambles," took matters into their own hands, crafting their own gear. Their bespoke solutions quickly garnered attention, leading them to sell their creations from a small shop. Over the decades, Berghaus earned a loyal following among serious mountaineers, becoming synonymous with reliability and advanced design. Beyond the climbing world, the brand also found an unexpected fan in Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher, whose public embrace of the Berghaus Meru jacket cemented its status as a symbol of British street culture. This blend of high-performance utility and cultural cool is now available to American consumers, promising a unique fusion of practicality and style for outdoor activities.
Among the standout offerings from Berghaus is the Rain-Motion Jacket, engineered to provide unparalleled protection in wet conditions, reminiscent of the often-damp climates of both England's Northeast and America's Pacific Northwest. This jacket utilizes tough, breathable, and fully waterproof 3L Pertex® Shield fabric, capable of withstanding heavy downpours. Designed for active users, its articulated pattern ensures excellent freedom of movement, while features like a cap-style hood for an unobstructed field of vision and stretch-snug cuffs and hem enhance overall protection. Additionally, its PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) finish highlights Berghaus's commitment to environmental responsibility, shedding water without the use of harmful chemicals.
For those who venture into blustery environments, the Pendower Wind Jacket is an essential piece. Inspired by the windsurfing haven of Cornwall’s Pendower Beach, this jacket is crafted from ripstop nylon, effectively blocking wind and repelling light rain. It's ideal for high-exertion activities where breathability is paramount and wind resistance is critical. The jacket's slim fit minimizes flapping, making it perfect for layering, and its articulated cut prioritizes mobility. A clever design touch is the zippered chest pocket, which conveniently doubles as a stuff sack for easy packing.
Another versatile item in the Berghaus lineup is the Staindrop Hike Jacket, a fleece designed for year-round comfort. Whether it's for an early morning coffee in the mountains, a brisk autumn walk, or as a mid-layer during winter expeditions, this jacket adapts to various conditions. Its core strength lies in a four-way stretch fleece with an internal grid structure, offering an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and superior breathability. Attention to detail is evident in its design, featuring zippered hand pockets strategically placed for accessibility with a pack, flat seams to prevent chafing, and a stretchy hood and cuffs to retain warmth.
Finally, for those who prioritize adaptability, the Kinetic Powerstretch Hoody stands out. Made with Polartec’s versatile Power Stretch™ Pro® fabric, this hoody combines warmth, breathability, weather resistance, durability, and exceptional comfort. Its dual-surface knit construction provides a robust exterior and a soft interior, making it a piece you'll never want to take off. The fabric is designed to resist pilling and maintain its shape, offering optimal protection in varied weather conditions. Reflecting Berghaus's commitment to enduring quality, all their gear, including this hoody, comes with a lifetime guarantee, ensuring free repairs for any damage, underscoring the brand's dedication to its customers and the longevity of its products, a service they proudly offer from their Newcastle roots.