Craghoppers

Craghoppers is a British outdoor clothing manufacturer and supplier. It was founded in Batley, West Riding of Yorkshire in 1965 and is now based in Manchester, United Kingdom.

History

Craghoppers is a British outdoor clothing brand that has a history dating back to 1965. The company was originally known as G & H Products and became one of the early adopters of nylon in outdoor garments. The founders of the brand, Brian Gaskin and Roy Holmes, both avid outdoor enthusiasts, hailed from Batley, West Yorkshire, and were passionate about activities such as walking, climbing, and pot-holing.

Gaskin and Holmes gained recognition for their design achievements, including the invention of the "Cagjac." Their reputation led to a significant opportunity when they were approached by the mountaineering expedition team led by Chris Bonington to design specialized weather wear for the successful 1975 Everest Expedition. Brian Gaskin personally designed the garments for this expedition, which marked a turning point for G & H Products.

As a result of their association with the Everest Expedition, G & H Products received additional capital and expanded their product offerings by collaborating with the Clarke Brothers, known for their expertise in manufacturing walking trousers and breeches. Subsequently, Craghoppers, which had been created by the Clarke Brothers, was acquired by G & H Products, who retained the brand name.

Over the years, Craghoppers faced financial challenges and underwent changes in ownership. In 1995, the Regatta Group acquired the company, bringing a new chapter to its history. In 2008, Craghoppers formed a partnership with survival expert Bear Grylls, producing a range of extreme condition clothing for his use.

Ranges

Craghoppers produce two ranges a year – spring/summer (available to consumers from February) and Autumn/Winter (available to consumers from September). Each range features products specifically for that season such as insulated jackets for winter and shorts, tees, and sandals in summer. The range includes clothing and accessories for men, women, and children as well as footwear, rucksacks, and luggage.

Clothing

Technologies

They have designed and promoted the following technologies:
* NosiLife – Clothing with a non-toxic anti insect finish that lasts the lifetime of the garment.
* Breathable fabrics.
* Stretch fabric.
* SolarShield fabrics which give UV protection, it is currently rated as having an up to 40+ UPF ( Ultraviolet protection factor) index and block 97.5+% of UVR (Ultraviolet radiation.)
* Wash & Wear fabrics – used for travel clothing where clothes dry overnight and need no or minimal ironing.
* AquaDry & AquaDry Stretch – Clothing which incorporates waterproof and breathable fabrics, also available in stretch fabrics.
* Lightweight clothing.

Craghoppers are one of several companies that meet Gore-Tex standards and are authorised to use and sell with Gore-Tex waterproof technologies. Many items of Craghoppers clothing have a hidden zippable security pocket.

They also produce luggage, softshell jackets, synthetic insulated jackets, and accessories such as caps and scarves. Their Kiwi walking trousers, with over 10 million pairs sold, are popular with ramblers.

Conservation projects

In 2013, Craghoppers joined the European Outdoor Conservation Association. In February 2015, the firm introduced a fleece made from recycled plastic bottles.

Partners

English Heritage
Craghoppers has partnered with English Heritage, sponsoring its Stonehenge Cycle Challenge and Hadrian's Wall Hike. English Heritage cares for places of historic significance in England such as Roman forts and medieval castles.

Dian Fossey
Craghoppers partnered with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International, a charity that protects gorillas and their habitats in Africa. Craghoppers has been supplying kits to the Dian Fossey team who work in the Virunga rainforest in Rwanda. Dian Fossey T-shirts were also sold to raise awareness and money for the charity.

In April 2015, Craghoppers also premiered a documentary film called "Hope" detailing the work that the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund carry out. The film was made by Craghoppers' ambassador, Peter McBride and narrated by Sir David Attenborough.

References

External links

* {{Official, http://www.craghoppers.com

Outdoor clothing brands
British brands
Companies based in Kirklees