One of the goals of Beyond Clothing, other than making awesome expeditionary clothing systems, is to become an enabler for those that “stand for what they believe in”. This mindset, often shared among their customer basis, is not really something new. Selflessness and wanting to be part of something bigger than yourself is a culture that has very old roots. Those that sacrifice for a greater value usually don’t do it for the glory and often times their story isn’t even told in their lifetime. Since many of these stories have common traits to contemporary conflicts and injustices it is important to understand them and to learn from the sacrifice of those that have come before us. This is one of them.
BEYOND BACKSTORY: THE K5 – (CHARLOTTE) CORDAY
The K5 – Women’s Corday Jacket takes its name from Marie-Anne Charlotte de Corday d’Armont, more commonly known simply as Charlotte Corday. Charlotte’s place in history comes from the French Revolution. She’s most recognized for the act of killing leading pundit Jean-Paul Marat while he was in the bathtub for inciting violence and radicalizing the movement.
Charlotte completely shook up the public perception of what a woman was capable of, and stood by her actions and the beliefs that motivated them. After being sentenced to death, she asked that her likeliness be painted for posterity first, adding, “To save your country means not noticing what it costs.” We can only assume that if she had a pair of sunglasses, they would’ve been slowly slid on at this point.
The Corday Jacket is many things: a technical softshell, a warm winter layer, an active-use tool, and a rather stylish piece if we do say so ourselves. At its core, however, it’s something more. More than an access pass to wild places, more than chic ruff-trimmed streetwear, more than a particular means to an end. It’s a statement: an embodiment of the intention to go absolutely anywhere, and stand for what you believe in.
Right after SHOT Show 2020 Beyond Clothing exhibited at Outdoor Retailer Snow Show 2020 in Denver.
On display were some products intended to launch in Spring 2020 season as well as some that will be available in fall.
As always the main concept behind Beyond is not to look at the single piece of clothing by itself but to the entire clothing system, a much needed point of view in this industry. A very strong theme is also sustainability, which is becoming a very key topic in the outdoor industry, considering how the customer basis is tied with nature and how it is unaware of the environmental footprint that equipment manufacturing has.
The DNA of Beyond lays in the education on how to use the system to achieve maximum efficiency and effectiveness. This mindset transpires through many of the new products that they are presenting, designed to used for multiple applications.
While many companies focus on providing tailored solutions for their specific customer base (usually with few applications in mind), Beyond is catering to a much wider crowd by focusing on the only aspect that different end-users have in common: protection from the environment.
This really requires some reflection on what is actually at the core of what we are trying to do. To be able to experience a much broader spectrum of the outdoors a single $500 jacket is insufficient and, at the same time, not everyone is able to drop $2000 for an adequate system.
This is where the choice of a direct to consumer model of a system-based company is the true enabler for those that need clothing for what it intended for: a tool to protect from the elements.
Understanding whether a company operates around a system approach or a single-garment approach is not an easy task for the average consumer; often times there are subtle characteristics that differentiate the two models. It is quite easy to be attracted by the bells and whistles of a garment only to find out that by itself it is not going to help in the adventure. While, in the meantime, having blown half of the budget that was intended for the whole system.
Top: K5 Modus Jacket (on top of a K2 Celeris Pullover) | Bottom: K5 Testa Softshell Pant
Respecting the environment is an extremely common trend in the clothing/sporting industry. Unfortunately it is one of the most hypocritical out there.
Polymerization, treatments applied to threads and fabrics, using excessive DWR on low-quality materials and “fashion” mindset (product quickly becoming “old”) are just some of the reasons why the outdoor clothing industry is extremely polluting.
Maybe a system-based approach to clothing could help?
Whenever something is worn-out you only need to update/fix/upgrade that single piece.
A more modular system is more versatile and doesn’t require many climate-specific items.
Most of the garments can be used all year (Skiing, hiking, emergency…).
It’s a sensitive topic but it’s necessary.
Both at SHOT and at OR Snow Show there was a big focus sensitizing people about protecting not only the endangered species but also the wilderness and backcountry.
New Products Coming in Fall 2020
K1 – TODRA SHORT SLEEVE CREW
The K1 – Todra Short Sleeve Crew features a blended knit jersey fabric with a sanded finish ensures a soft, velvety feel for all-day comfort. Dri-release® technology manages sweat build-up from exercise, hot days and more, and the fitted, athletic construction makes it an ideal choice for a morning run, workout, and casual wear alike.
K3 – DASCHE JACKET
The K3 – Dasche Jacket is a packable, water- and wind-resistant shell. Mapped PrimaLoft® Gold LuxeTM insulation combines the targeted warmth of a vest with the coverage of a jacket, and tightly woven quilt lines ensure full insulation loft and no
popped stitches. The unique stow-hood design eliminates the bulk of roll-up storage or the hassle of tracking a detachable hood.
A self-stowing pocket allows fast, compact storage in a pack or bag.
K3 – CLUTCH FIELD LINER
The K3 – Clutch Field Liner is a robust layer of warmth underneath your weather protection or as a zip-up jacket to keep warmth in mild conditions. 80g Primaloft Gold® Luxe Insulation crafted from 100% post-consumer recycled materials combines with a classic quilted design, providing ample heat through eco-friendly means.
20-denier construction with 4-way stretch and a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish offers lasting durability, easy mobility, and protection from light rain.
K3 – DAWA SHERPA FLEECE
The double-sided and brushed-knit ultra-plush fleece delivers a soft feel and ample heat. An attached, fitted hood helps keep you dry when surprise showers show up, and two zippered hand pockets combine with a hidden shoulder-seam pocket to provide secure storage.
K4 – AVID PANT
A jogger pant made of ultralight fabric with 4-way stretch with articulated knees and elastic waistband with an internal draw cord. Four pockets with each pocket bag is crafted with power mesh to allow venting. A clear coating on the outer shell increases the soft hand feel, and a durable water-repellent finish (DWR) to provide protection from light rain.
K4 – VENTUM ULTRALIGHT HOODIE in Gods Plaid (ehm I mean WOODLAND)
K7 – ANCHOR BELAY JACKET
Water-resistant 80g Primaloft Gold® Luxe Insulation crafted from 100% post-consumer recycled materials combines with a quilted inside, providing ample heat even while wet.
20-denier construction with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish and a built-in rimmed hood offers lasting durability and protection from the elements. 4-way stretch and articulated sleeves provide enhanced mobility, and the included stow pouch allows the entire jacket to be packed down for space-saving convenience when not in use.
Now Available
K5 – MODUS JACKET
The K5 – Modus Jacket is a lightweight hooded jacket designed for active use in warmer weather. The durable, 4-way stretch, double-faced nylon polyester shell protects you from the wind and rain, while remaining breathable for moisture transport.
The inner face of the fabric is bamboo charcoal yarn which is naturally antibacterial, antifungual, moisture wicking and insulating. The K5 – Modus Jacket is ideal for lightweight durability for active use in warmer climates.
K5 – APTUS JACKET
For all the lucky ones with a A5 Stretch Alpha, you’ll like this one…
K5 – Aptus Jacket combines the warmth and moisture transport of an insulating layer with the durability and mobility of a softshell.
The jacket is built out of three layers; starting with a Verso Weave™ knit that pulls moisture away from the body towards a layer of Polartec® Alpha® Insulation.
The Alpha® Insulation traps and retains body heat while continuing to transport moisture to the outer shell where moisture spreads and evaporates.
The final layer is a DWR finished, flexible 4-way stretch woven fabric that is highly durable and protects you from the wind and rain. Stay warm, dry, and protected while on the move.
Details of the new Beyond Clothing products will be provided from Outdoor Retailer Snow Show.
BEYOND SHOT 2020
It’s always special to come back to the Artisan year after year. This picturesque venue seem to be the perfect fit for the creative Beyond parties. For SHOT 2020, presented by Beyond Clothing and Blackfish, the night featured a live performance by Naughty by Nature and a Dueling DJ-set with Asian Star (Tokyo) and D Triple J (USA).
As always a key role of the night was the effort to raise funds and awareness for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation and the Endangered Species Protection Agency. Through a collaboration with the ESPA the invited guests were able to encounter an endangered animal, a male tiger.
Besides throwing some rad and memorable parties, this year at SHOT Show 2019, Beyond Clothing has showcased some truly innovative and good-looking garments. Here are some shots of what to expect from the Fall 2019 release.
K3 – Alpha Loki Jackets
These reversible quilted jackets are the Kyros equivalent of the A3 – Lokis of the Axios line. This is truly a piece that brings the technology, materials and colors of the military heritage into the everyday lifestyle world, with a little bit of swag as well.
(Keep in mind that the woodland colored fabric was a non-color correct prototype)
K3 – Kyros Lochi Reversible Jacket Black – M81 WoodlandK3 – Kyros Lochi Reversible Jacket Green – Arctic Camo Snow
K7 – Tempus Jacket
This is an extremely interesting cold weather jacket. It is designed to effectively insulate without compromising mobility. As soon as you wear it you immediately notice a difference compared to other similar products on the market, it doesn’t even feel like you are wearing it.
The attention to detail and the overall execution is a great demonstration of the manufacturing capabilities available in the Kyros line.
K6 – Hardshell Pant with LUTRA Fabric in Arctic Camo
K6 HardshellK6 – WaistK6 -Ankle K6 Front Pockets
A9AT – Mission Pant
Integrated knee pads
Waist adjustments with hook and loop tabs
Zip rear pockets oriented outwards for comfort and efficiency
Richard Elder in known in the industry for being the project officer for the team that developed the PCU, the protective combat uniform. A breakthrough technological improvement that has become the foundation of modern high performance and expeditionary clothing systems.
Now at Beyond Clothing since its acquisition by 5.11. Richard Elder formerly served as the executive director of Smith Optics Elite Division, where he led the development of the ballistic eye-wear program. Prior to Smith Optics, Elder spent 10 years as a US Federal Program Manager, developing equipment in support of the United States Special Operation Command. Prior to, he attained the rank of Sergeant and later, Captain, completing his tour in 2001 within the 75th Ranger Regiment, United States Special Operations Command. Elder also served in the United States Army for seven years as both an enlisted soldier and commissioned officer.
We had the unique opportunity to interview Rick and spend time with his team while visiting the Beyond headquarters in Seattle, WA.
The A3 Lochi Jacket is designed for active use in cold environments, and is reversible for low-profile use in urban environments. Polartec® Alpha® Insulation transfers moisture away from the body to keep you dry and warm, while the DWR treated nylon ripstop shell protects you from wind and rain. Light, highly compressible, breathable, and fast drying, the A3 Lochi Jacket is a low-profile alternative to the A3 Alpha Jacket.
Enforce Tac – IWA 2018 brought the opportunity to meet the team behind Beyond Clothing and allowed us to get our hands on their garments.
A3 Active Insulation
The midweight performance layers can be worn as insulation layers or stand alone outer garments, depending on the environment, These lightweight loft and flees layers are breathable, packable,and highly wind-resistant.
A3 – Alpha Lochi Jacket (Reversible)
This jacket comes in two colorways: Navy/Grey (as show in the photos below) and Black/Multicam
A5 Softshells layers are designed to protect the user against wind and rain during active use. These outer layers are built out of an extremely breathable, 4-way stretch material that allows for excellent mobility, high durability and protection from the elements.
A5 – Stretch Alpha Sweater
Available in Grey, Navy and Ranger Green
Materials:
– Tweave® Durastretch® Nylon with DWR
– 3.2 oz. Polartec® Power Grid® Fleece
– Polartec® Alpha® Insulation – 60g
A5 – Rig Softshell Pants
Available in Multicam, Coyote and Black
Material:
– Fleece Laminated Tweave® Durastretch® Softshell with DWR
A9 Uniforms
Built with the mission in mind, the A9 uniform garments are designed to perform in a variety of conditions. The A9 suite is constructed with durable NYCO Ripstop to endure the harshest terrain.
A9C – Cold Weather Mission Shirt
Materials:
– 6.6 oz. Polartec® Power Grid™
– Fleece Laminated Tweave® Durastretch® with DWR
A9-E Equatorial Mission Pants
Materials:
-Lightweight, 3.8 oz. Nylon Ripstop with No-Fly Zone® and MCS
A9-A – Advanced Mission Pant
Available in Multicam and Woodland
Materials:
– No Melt, No Drip NYCO Ripstop
– Tweave® Durastretch® with DWR
Element System
Designed to be highly adaptable, the Element System features lightweight, hydrophobic fabrics that offer unparalleled moisture management and breathability. Mesh pocket openings through the system allow for fast and quiet pocket draining when working in or around water.
A9 – Element Pant
Materials:
– Tweave® Durastretch® with DWR
– XPG Superfabric® on stretch Cordura®
– Brushed Mesh Pockets
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