How Digital Should Outdoor Equipment Be?

A lot is already possible when it comes to clothing and outdoor. Recently, at an innovation fair for high-tech apparel textiles, for instance, an evening dress was presented that massages its wearer. There is also underwear that releases vitamins and minerals to the wearer.

In our survey, we want to know which technical possibilities are already being used for walking, hiking, climbing, cycling or other outdoor activities and which would still be useful as added value in the outdoor equipment of the future. But we also want to know which digital possibilities are undesirable. As a reward for the 10 to 15 minute answer to the questions, 200 participants will receive a culture bag from Jack Wolfskin. The winners will be drawn by lot.

A lot is changing in the outdoor sector. In addition to the achievements mentioned earlier, there are shirts for adults and romper suits that measure heart rate or pulse rate. Even a display woven from fibres – which could theoretically be used to show the weather forecast on sweaters or backpacks – is already being developed.

Perhaps particularly interesting for outdoor freaks is a jacket with down-filled air chambers that can be "inflated" or deflated by means of a micro pump. Just like birds, you should be able to regulate your body temperature.

One thing is certain: Digitalization has already reached the outdoor industry and will play an important role in the future. For many outdoor fans, however, the experience of nature without technical gadgets is especially important. So what do people expect and want from their outdoor clothing in the next years? Click here to participate in the survey.