Berghaus Brand Guide
The OD's Berghaus Brand Guide
Born in the Rain — British Outdoor Performance Edition
1 | Brand Overview — Born in the Rain
Berghaus is Britain's original mountain innovator, founded in Newcastle in 1966 by engineer Gordon Davison and marketer Peter Lockey, creating performance equipment rooted in Northern practicality and engineered for endurance in proper British weather.
It starts with the weather. Proper British weather. The kind of persistent, horizontal rain you only find in the North of England.
It was in that weather, in Newcastle upon Tyne in 1966, that mountaineers Peter Lockey and Gordon Davison decided they'd had enough of substandard gear failing them on British hills. They started importing quality equipment, then designing their own, and Berghaus (German for "mountain house") was born.
This isn't a brand conceived in a sunny California boardroom or an Alpine ski resort. It was forged out of necessity, by engineers who understood that in the British hills, the right jacket isn't a luxury—it's a lifeline.
Berghaus At A Glance
- Category: British outdoor performance equipment
- Core Technologies: GORE-TEX® • Hydrodown® • MADEKIND • Repairhaus
- Price Position: £80–£400 (accessible performance tier)
- Competitor Set: The North Face • Rab • Montane
From the revolutionary Cyclops internal-frame rucksack in 1974 to being among the earliest European adopters of GORE-TEX® membranes, Berghaus has always been about practical, no-nonsense innovation that works when the weather turns foul.
Still headquartered in Sunderland today, Berghaus remains one of Britain's few true outdoor engineering houses—independent in spirit, meticulous in build, rooted in the North.
Price guidance reflects typical UK street pricing and is subject to seasonal promotions. Trademarks: GORE-TEX®, Vibram®, Polartec®, Hydrodown® are the property of their respective owners.
2 | Heritage & Philosophy — From the Peaks to the Streets
Born from North-East mountaineers who demanded gear that worked in British conditions, Berghaus evolved from importing equipment to engineering innovations that set industry standards—from internal-frame rucksacks to zip-in fleece systems—while maintaining its Northern character and functional pragmatism.
Timeline of Innovation
Peter Lockey and Gordon Davison establish LD Mountain Centre (precursor to Berghaus), importing quality climbing gear
Cyclops Rucksack launched—first internal-frame pack, revolutionizing load distribution
Gemini Jacket—pioneering zip-in fleece system, creating modular layering before it became industry standard
Hydrodown® developed—water-repellent down insulation maintaining loft in damp conditions
GORE-TEX® partnership deepens—Berghaus becomes leading British GORE-TEX® brand
Repairhaus launched—free lifetime repair service, pioneering circular model
B Corp Certification achieved—score 93.1, validating sustainability commitments
Made Kinder programme scales—62% SS25 collection, 74% AW25 collection using recycled/bio-based materials
Design Philosophy
Berghaus operates on three non-negotiable principles:
1. The Outdoors Must Be for Everyone
Performance gear shouldn't be exclusive to elite mountaineers. Accessible pricing, practical design, and real-world testing ensure Berghaus works for weekend hikers and Everest climbers alike.
2. If It's Berghaus, It's Built to Last
Engineered for decade-long use, designed for repair rather than replacement. The Repairhaus service (free repairs for life) embodies this commitment—over 17,000 items repaired since launch, with average turnaround of 21 days.
3. Real Innovation Has Purpose
Every technical feature exists to solve a specific problem encountered in British conditions. No innovation for marketing's sake—only solutions that matter when you're three hours from shelter and the weather's turned.
Northern Character: The philosophy isn't about conquering mountains—it's about getting home safely when the weather's against you. That pragmatism, that Northern refusal to romanticize hardship, runs through every Berghaus design decision.
3 | Craftsmanship & Technologies — Engineering Without Pretence
Every Berghaus product is a tool designed for a purpose, with technical features serving specific performance objectives rather than aesthetic decoration—from GORE-TEX® membranes guaranteeing waterproofing to Hydrodown® maintaining warmth in damp conditions.
Core Technologies Explained
GORE-TEX: The Gold Standard of Waterproofing
Berghaus was among the earliest European adopters of GORE-TEX membrane technology, and for good reason: it's the most reliable waterproof and breathable system available.
How it works: The GORE-TEX membrane contains over 9 billion pores per square inch. Each pore is 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet but 700 times larger than a water vapor molecule. This means:
- Rain cannot penetrate (waterproof)
- Sweat vapor escapes easily (breathable)
- Wind is completely blocked (windproof)
Why it matters for UK conditions: British weather isn't just about rain—it's about sustained rain with wind. Cheap waterproofs either let rain in or trap sweat inside, leaving you damp either way. GORE-TEX keeps you genuinely dry from both external and internal moisture.
The care requirement: GORE-TEX membranes require tumble-dry heat activation to maintain performance. The heat reactivates the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating on the outer fabric, ensuring water beads and rolls off rather than soaking into the face fabric.
Berghaus GORE-TEX testing: Flagship mountaineering pieces typically target around 20,000mm waterproof rating. Actual ratings vary by model—check individual product specifications.
Hydrodown: Warmth That Works When Wet
Standard down insulation is exceptional when dry but completely loses insulating properties when wet—a critical failure point in British conditions where damp is inevitable.
How it works: Hydrodown is high-quality down treated to resist moisture at the fiber level; it maintains loft better when damp and dries significantly faster than untreated down—ideal for UK conditions where "always a bit wet" is the norm.
Why it matters: In UK hill conditions, you'll get damp—from rain, from sweat, from condensation inside your tent. Hydrodown means your insulation keeps working when conventional down would fail.
RDS Certification: All Berghaus down (including Hydrodown) meets Responsible Down Standard, ensuring ethical treatment of birds and supply chain transparency.
MADEKIND: Built Better From the Start
This isn't marketing language—it's a certification standard with specific material requirements.
What it means: If a Berghaus product carries the MADEKIND label, it contains:
- Recycled materials (typically recycled polyester from post-consumer plastic bottles)
- OR bio-based fabrics from renewable sources
- AND meets bluesign system partner requirements (restricted substance management)
- AND/OR RDS certification for down products
Current scale: 62% of SS25 collection, 74% of AW25 collection meet MADEKIND standards. (Percentages per Berghaus SS25/AW25 development data; reporting current as of July 2024.)
Additional Technologies
- Hydroshell — Berghaus proprietary waterproof fabric offering reliable protection at lower price point than GORE-TEX. Ratings vary by model.
- AQ (legacy) — Brand's historical entry waterproof tech. Current lines focus on GORE-TEX and Hydroshell.
- Polartec Fleece — Licensed technical fleece providing warmth without weight, with anti-pill finish
- Vibram Outsoles — Italian-made rubber compounds providing grip on wet rock and mud
4 | Cultural Presence — The Uniform: From Summit to Stadium
Berghaus earned credibility on the world's highest peaks but became a British cultural icon through organic adoption by Britpop musicians and football terrace culture—creating a unique position as gear that's equally authentic on Everest expeditions and Manchester terraces.
The Three Tribes
The Climber's Uniform: Proven on the World's Highest Peaks
Sir Chris Bonington—legendary British mountaineer and long-term Berghaus ambassador—wore the brand on first ascents of Himalayan peaks, Antarctic expeditions, and decades of British mountain rescue work.
Modern Ambassadors:
- Leo Houlding—alpinist, base jumper, explorer
- Mick Fowler—mountaineer specializing in first ascents
- Karen Darke—paralympic athlete and adventurer
For the climbing community, the Berghaus logo isn't fashion—it's a mark of proven, field-tested engineering trusted when consequences are real.
The Britpop Uniform: Rugged Northern Edge
In the 1990s, Liam Gallagher and the Britpop movement adopted Berghaus jackets—particularly the Trango and Mera Peak smocks—as unofficial uniform. This wasn't sponsorship or calculated marketing; it was organic cultural fit.
Why Berghaus matched the movement:
- Functional, unpretentious aesthetic—no logos, no fuss, just gear that worked
- Northern roots—Manchester/Newcastle cultural alignment
- Working-class authenticity—proper outdoor gear, not fashion-brand posturing
- Rugged edge—looked equally appropriate on stage or hiking the Pennines
The Trango jacket in particular became iconic—a bright, color-blocked shell that was simultaneously technical mountaineering gear and statement piece. Gallagher wore it on stage, in press photos, and around Manchester, cementing Berghaus as part of Britpop's visual identity.
The Terrace Uniform: Football Culture Adoption
By the mid-1990s, Berghaus had been adopted by British football terrace culture alongside brands like Stone Island and CP Company.
Why it worked:
- Weatherproof for standing on open terraces—practical for 90 minutes in rain and wind
- Understated quality—expensive enough to signal investment, subtle enough to avoid fashion victim territory
- British manufacturing heritage—authenticity mattered to terrace culture
- Durability—gear that lasted seasons rather than trends
The Crossover: What It Means
This three-way cultural presence is what makes Berghaus unique in British outdoor brands:
- Arc'teryx—respected by climbers, ignored by culture
- The North Face—huge in fashion, questioned by serious mountaineers
- Patagonia—environmental credibility, limited UK cultural resonance
- Berghaus—Equal credibility with climbers, musicians, and football culture
It's one of the few brands equally at home on an Everest expedition, on stage at Glastonbury, and on the 5:15 train from Manchester Piccadilly.
5 | Top Picks & Fit — Northern Precision
For universal sizing guidance and how to measure yourself, see our Master Size Guide. Below are Berghaus's official size charts and product-specific fit notes.
The Golden Rules
- Berghaus fits true to UK size—order your standard size
- Performance cut allows layering—room for base + mid-layer under shells
- Size up only if layering multiple thick pieces (fleece + gilet + shell)
- Boots fit true to UK shoe size—try on late afternoon with hiking socks
OD's Top 5 Berghaus Picks—Curated for British Conditions
1. Hillwalker GORE-TEX Jacket (≈ £280)
Best For: Weekend hikes in the Peaks, rainy commutes, everyday reliability, first proper waterproof shell
Why OD's Rates It: Quintessential Berghaus—no-nonsense 2-layer GORE-TEX shell that's 100% waterproof and windproof. Lightweight enough for summer hiking, robust enough for winter storms, with a cut that layers perfectly over fleece mid-layers.
Key Tech: 2-layer GORE-TEX membrane, adjustable hood (helmet-compatible), pit zips for ventilation, multiple pockets
Sizing Note: True to size with room for mid-layer underneath. Size up if regularly layering over thick fleeces.
UK Weather Performance: Excels in sustained rain + wind (typical Lake District/Peak District conditions). Packable enough for "just in case" carrying but substantial enough for all-day wear in foul weather.
2. Arnside Fleece (≈ £85)
Best For: Standalone jacket in autumn/spring, essential mid-layer for deep winter, everyday warmth without bulk
Why OD's Rates It: A Berghaus fleece is a British institution. The Arnside represents classic Polartec engineering—warm, durable, pill-resistant even after years of washing. Full-zip design works as standalone piece or layers perfectly under waterproof shells.
Key Tech: Polartec Classic 200 fleece, anti-pill finish, chin guard on zip, elasticated cuffs and hem
Sizing Note: Regular fit. Buy your usual size to wear over base layers.
UK Weather Performance: Ideal for 5-15°C as standalone, or down to -10°C when layered under waterproof shell.
3. Paclite GORE-TEX Overtrousers (≈ £120)
Best For: Stashing in your pack for hiking, cycling commutes, emergency waterproof coverage
Why OD's Rates It: GORE-TEX Paclite technology makes these overtrousers incredibly lightweight and packable—they compress to fist-size but provide full waterproof protection when needed. Three-quarter-length side zips mean you can pull them on over muddy boots in seconds.
Key Tech: GORE-TEX Paclite 2-layer, long side zips, elasticated waist with drawcord, articulated knees
Sizing Note: Designed to fit over your regular trousers. Order the size corresponding to your waist measurement.
UK Weather Performance: Essential insurance for British hills where weather changes in minutes. Weighs ~200g but keeps you dry when unexpected rain hits.
4. Tempest 89 Jacket (≈ £140)
Best For: Retro-inspired look with modern performance, casual weekend wear, those who want Britpop aesthetic with genuine technical credibility
Why OD's Rates It: This jacket taps directly into 1990s Berghaus heritage with bold color-blocking and classic silhouette, but it's backed by fully waterproof Hydroshell fabric. Perfect blend of cultural style and Northern substance—looks like the Trango jackets Liam Gallagher made famous, performs like modern technical gear.
Key Tech: Hydroshell fabric, retro color-blocking, adjustable hood, YKK front zip with storm flap
Sizing Note: Slightly more relaxed, retro-inspired fit. True to size.
UK Weather Performance: Handles typical British rain and wind. More about versatile everyday wear than extreme mountain use.
5. Explorer Trek GORE-TEX Boot (≈ £180)
Best For: Serious UK hillwalking from Yorkshire Dales to Snowdonia, multi-day hiking, winter mountain walking
Why OD's Rates It: A classic full-leather walking boot built to British standards. GORE-TEX lining guarantees dry feet in stream crossings and hours of rain, Vibram outsole provides reliable grip on wet rock and mud, and the full-grain leather upper offers durable support that molds to your foot over hundreds of miles.
Key Tech: Full-grain leather upper, GORE-TEX membrane lining, Vibram rubber outsole, steel shank, padded ankle collar
Sizing Note: True to UK shoe size. Try on late afternoon when feet have slightly swelled, and wear the thick hiking socks you'll actually use on trails.
Break-In Period: Expect 20-30 miles of break-in where leather softens and molds to your foot. Initial stiffness is normal and desirable.
Men's Sizing Tables
Jackets, Fleeces, Base Layers & Tees
| Size | Chest (in) | Chest (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| XS | 33–35 | 84–89 |
| S | 36–38 | 91–97 |
| M | 39–41 | 99–104 |
| L | 42–44 | 106–112 |
| XL | 45–47 | 114–120 |
| 2XL | 48–50 | 122–127 |
| 3XL | 51–53 | 129–135 |
Trousers
| Size | Waist (in) | Waist (cm) | Inside leg (in) | Inside leg (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 25–27 | 63–69 | 30–31 | 76–79 |
| S | 28–30 | 71–76 | 30–31 | 76–79 |
| M | 31–33 | 79–84 | 31–32 | 79–82 |
| L | 34–36 | 86–92 | 31–32 | 79–82 |
| XL | 37–39 | 94–99 | 31–32 | 79–82 |
| 2XL | 40–42 | 101–107 | 32–33 | 81–84 |
| 3XL | 43–45 | 109–114 | 32–33 | 81–84 |
Leg lengths: Short 30 in (76 cm) • Regular 32 in (81 cm) • Long 34 in (86 cm)
Footwear
| UK | US | EU | MM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 40.5 | 255 |
| 8 | 9 | 42 | 260 |
| 9 | 10 | 43 | 270 |
| 10 | 11 | 44.5 | 280 |
| 11 | 12 | 45.5 | 290 |
| 12 | 13 | 47 | 295 |
| 13 | 14 | 48.5 | 305 |
6 | Berghaus-Specific Care Notes
For universal care rules (washing temperature, detergent types, storage), see our Master Care Guide. Below are material-specific instructions unique to Berghaus's technical fabrics.
The Golden Rules for Berghaus
❌ NEVER:
- Use fabric softener on any technical gear (clogs membrane pores, coats DWR)
- Wash waterproofs in biological/enzyme detergent (damages membrane bonding)
- Tumble dry leather boots (destroys leather structure and waterproofing)
- Dry-clean technical fabrics (solvents damage membranes irreparably)
✅ ALWAYS:
- Close all zips, velcro, and flaps before washing (prevents snagging)
- Use technical wash products (Nikwax, Grangers) for waterproofs
- Tumble dry waterproof shells on low heat (reactivates DWR coating)
- Store clean and completely dry in ventilated space
GORE-TEX Shells Care (Hillwalker, Paclite Overtrousers)
Washing Protocol:
- Brush off loose dirt and mud
- Close all zips, pockets, and velcro
- Machine wash 30°C with technical wash liquid (Nikwax Tech Wash, Grangers Performance Wash)—never bio detergent
- Rinse cycle twice if possible (ensures complete detergent removal)
- Tumble dry on low heat for 20-30 minutes—this step is critical
Why tumble dry is essential:
The heat reactivates the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating on the outer fabric. Without this, water soaks into the face fabric (called "wetting out"), making the jacket feel heavy and reducing breathability even though the GORE-TEX membrane underneath remains waterproof.
Signs DWR needs attention:
- Water no longer beads and rolls off surface
- Outer fabric feels "wet" and heavy in rain
- Jacket takes ages to dry
DWR Reactivation Process:
- Wash jacket as above
- Tumble dry low heat (often this alone restores DWR)
- If still wetting out: apply spray-on DWR (Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On)
- Hang outside or tumble dry again to cure treatment
- Test with water—should bead and roll off surface
Why this matters: The GORE-TEX membrane's waterproof rating depends on DWR preventing outer fabric saturation. When DWR fails, the membrane still works but performance feels compromised because the outer layer becomes heavy and wet.
Hydrodown & Standard Down Insulation Care
Down requires specialized care to maintain loft and insulation properties.
Washing Protocol:
- Check care label (most Berghaus down is machine-washable)
- Use down-specific wash (Nikwax Down Wash Direct, Grangers Down Wash)—never regular detergent
- Front-loading washing machine only (top-loaders with agitators damage down)
- Gentle cycle, 30°C, extra rinse cycle
- Critical step: Tumble dry on LOW heat with 2-3 clean tennis balls
- Check periodically and break up clumps by hand if needed
- Continue drying until COMPLETELY dry (takes 2-3+ dryer cycles)
Why tennis balls matter:
They physically break apart down clusters during drying, restoring loft. Without this, down clumps permanently, losing 30-50% of insulation performance.
How to test if dry: Feel deep inside baffles. If any dampness remains, continue drying. Damp down stored in compression = permanent damage and potential mildew.
Frequency: Wash sparingly—1-2 times per season maximum unless visibly soiled. Down retains natural oils that aid loft; excessive washing strips these.
Storage: Never store compressed. Hang or store loosely in breathable bag. Compression is fine for transport but damages down over long-term storage.
Leather Boots Care (Explorer Trek, Full-Grain Leather Models)
Leather requires conditioning, not just cleaning, to maintain waterproofing and structure.
Care Protocol:
After each use: Brush off dried mud with stiff brush
Deep cleaning (monthly or when heavily soiled):
- Remove laces and insoles
- Brush off all loose dirt
- Clean with boot cleaning spray or damp cloth
- Apply leather conditioning cream/wax while leather is slightly damp (helps absorption)
- Work conditioner into seams and flex points (where leather creases)
- Allow to dry naturally away from direct heat (radiators/fires damage leather)
Waterproofing: Apply wax or spray waterproofer to clean, conditioned leather
Storage: Store in ventilated area (not plastic bags), use boot trees or stuff with newspaper to maintain shape
Products: Nikwax Waterproofing Wax, Grangers G-Wax, or traditional dubbin all work well.
Frequency:
- Brush cleaning: After every muddy use
- Conditioning: Monthly with regular use, or when leather feels dry
- Waterproofing: Every 2-3 months depending on use
Break-In: New leather boots require 20-30 miles of break-in. Wear around house with hiking socks before taking on long trails. Some stiffness and hot spots are normal initially but should resolve as leather molds to your foot.
Resoling: Berghaus boots use Vibram soles that can be professionally resoled when worn. This extends boot life by 5-10 years at fraction of replacement cost.
Repairhaus: Free Lifetime Repair Service
Use Repairhaus for:
- Broken zips or zipper pulls
- Torn seams or fabric tears
- Delaminated waterproof membrane
- Damaged insulation baffles
- Worn elastic or drawcords
Repairhaus Process:
- Go to Berghaus website → Repairhaus page
- Submit repair request with photos
- Receive shipping instructions (you pay postage to Sunderland)
- Berghaus assesses and repairs (free)
- Average turnaround: 21 days
- If unrepairable: replacement or 30% discount on new gear
The Numbers: 17,000+ items repaired since program launch (Repairs total measured March 2021–July 2024; 2024 year-to-date repairs up c.21% vs 2023.)
7 | Sustainability & Authenticity
Berghaus's Sustainability Strategy
Berghaus frames sustainability as longevity rather than marketing—achieving B Corp certification (score 93.1) through measurable commitments including circular repair programs (17,000+ items serviced), increasing recycled material use (74% of AW25 collection), and transparent supply chain practices verified through third-party audits.
The Core Philosophy: Buy Less, Use Longer
The most sustainable jacket isn't made from recycled materials—it's the one you repair and keep using for a decade rather than replacing every few years.
B Corp Certification (Achieved 2022)
Score: 93.1 (out of 200 maximum)
What B Corp means:
- Legally binding commitment to stakeholder governance (not just shareholders)
- Annual verification of environmental and social performance
- Public transparency reports
- Continuous improvement requirements
Made Kinder Programme: Quantified Progress
MADEKIND certification requires products contain recycled or bio-based materials AND meet bluesign or RDS standards.
Current Scale:
- 62% of SS25 (Spring/Summer 2025) collection meets MADEKIND standards
- 74% of AW25 (Autumn/Winter 2025) collection meets MADEKIND standards
(Percentages per Berghaus SS25/AW25 development data; reporting current as of July 2024.)
Repairhaus: Circular Model in Action
The Numbers:
- 17,000+ items repaired since program launch
- 50% CO2 emissions reduction vs. manufacturing replacement (estimated)
- 21-day average turnaround from receipt to return
- Free to customer (customer pays postage in only)
Packaging Reductions
Quantified Impact:
- 12.5 tonnes of cardboard saved through packaging optimization
- Equivalent to approximately 212 trees not cut for cardboard production
- Plastic reduced: Polybags eliminated where possible, FSC-certified paper packaging
Net Zero Commitment
Berghaus operates under Pentland Brands (parent company) Net Zero commitment aligned with Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
Targets:
- Scope 1+2 emissions (direct operations): Net Zero by 2040
- Scope 3 emissions (supply chain): Absolute reduction targets aligned with 1.5°C warming limit
OD's Authenticity Guarantee
- OD's is an authorised UK Berghaus retailer
- All products sourced through official distribution channels
- Full manufacturer warranty coverage
- Repairhaus service access for all purchases
- This does not affect your statutory rights under UK consumer law
Company Information
Berghaus Ltd, operating under Pentland Brands parent company
Headquarters and Repairhaus facility: Sunderland, UK
8 | FAQs — Berghaus-Specific Intelligence
For universal sizing, care, and store policy FAQs, see our Master FAQ Guide. Below are brand-specific questions about Berghaus.
Is Berghaus true to size?
Yes—Berghaus fits true to standard UK sizing with performance cut allowing layering room. Order your normal UK size for correct fit. Size up only if you plan to layer multiple thick mid-layers simultaneously. For boots, order your standard UK shoe size and try on with your intended hiking socks.
Is Berghaus fashion or function?
Function first, fashion by consequence. Berghaus engineers for performance in British conditions (sustained rain, wind, damp cold), then refines aesthetics. The terrace adoption and Britpop crossover happened organically because authentic quality has cultural appeal—not through fashion-led design.
Where is Berghaus made?
Design, testing, and repair services are UK-based in Sunderland. Manufacturing occurs globally (primarily Asia) to outdoor industry standards, with factory audits verifying working conditions and environmental compliance. This is standard for outdoor brands—even "British" brands like Rab and Montane manufacture overseas due to specialized technical fabric production being concentrated in Asia.
Is Berghaus waterproof?
GORE-TEX and Hydroshell models are fully waterproof. Ratings typically range from around 10,000mm (lightweight shells) to around 20,000mm (flagship pieces). Always check the specific product specification. Not all Berghaus jackets are waterproof—check specifications per model.
How does Hydrodown compare to regular down for UK conditions?
Hydrodown is significantly better for British weather. Regular down collapses and loses most of its insulation when wet—catastrophic in UK hills where damp is inevitable. Hydrodown's hydrophobic treatment maintains loft when damp and dries faster than untreated down. For UK hillwalking where you'll encounter wet conditions, Hydrodown is the smarter choice.
What's the best Berghaus jacket for UK commute vs. mountain use?
UK Commute (everyday rain protection): Hillwalker GORE-TEX Jacket or Hydroshell models. Fully waterproof, packable, professional enough for office wear, durable for daily use.
Mountain Use (serious hillwalking): Same Hillwalker GORE-TEX works, but consider heavier-duty models in the Extrem range if tackling winter conditions, multi-day expeditions, or scrambling where abrasion matters.
How does Repairhaus actually work?
- Submit online request with photos of damage at Berghaus.com
- Ship item to Sunderland (you pay postage, typically £5-10)
- Wait ~21 days for Berghaus repairs (free labor, free parts)
- Receive return (Berghaus pays return shipping)
- If unrepairable: replacement offer or 30% discount on new gear
Eligibility: Lifetime guarantee covers manufacturing defects and general wear damage. Doesn't cover neglect but threshold is generous—most damage from actual use qualifies.
Berghaus vs. The North Face vs. Arc'teryx—what's the difference?
- Berghaus (£80-400): British heritage, Northern character, accessible performance, terrace credibility, Repairhaus circular model
- The North Face (£100-500): American heritage, mainstream appeal, fashion crossover strong, performance credible but variable by line
- Arc'teryx (£300-800+): Canadian, extreme technical precision, minimalist aesthetic, premium pricing
Value proposition: Berghaus offers 80-90% of Arc'teryx performance at 40-50% of the cost. For serious UK hillwalking, Berghaus delivers everything needed without luxury premium.
How long does Berghaus gear actually last?
With proper care and Repairhaus repairs:
- GORE-TEX shells: 10-15 years of regular use
- Fleeces: 8-12 years
- Down jackets: 10-20 years
- Leather boots: 15-25 years with resoling and conditioning
- Synthetic boots: 5-8 years
Key factors: Wash correctly, store properly, repair promptly, condition leather.
9 | Why OD's × Berghaus — Your Northern Authority
OD's Designer Clothing stocks Berghaus because we're both Northern, both independent, and both believe quality gear should be accessible rather than exclusive—combining technical expertise with genuine understanding of how this gear lives in British streets and hills.
What Sets OD's Apart:
- Independent Northern Retailer — Based between Liverpool and Manchester, we understand Northern weather, Northern culture, and why Berghaus bridges the gap between outdoor performance and everyday wearability.
- Real-World Expertise — Our team wears Berghaus on the same commutes, walks the same Lake District paths, and stands on the same rainy football terraces as you do. We provide practical, hands-on advice based on actual use.
- Technology Translation — Not everyone understands membrane waterproofing or DWR chemistry. We explain technical features in plain English.
- Layering System Guidance — Berghaus designed their gear for modular layering (base layer + fleece + shell). We help customers build systems rather than buying isolated pieces.
- Aftercare Support — When customers notice their jacket isn't beading water anymore, we explain DWR reactivation. When leather boots need conditioning, we provide product recommendations and application guidance.
- Repairhaus Coordination — We help customers navigate the Repairhaus process: assess if damage qualifies for free repair, provide shipping guidance, set realistic timeline expectations, follow up if repairs take longer.
- Guaranteed Authenticity — Every Berghaus product we sell is sourced through authorized distribution channels, carries full manufacturer warranty, and qualifies for Repairhaus services.
The Service Difference:
What online-only retailers can't provide:
- Fit consultation based on your actual build and intended use
- Try-on before purchase (eliminating return hassle)
- Aftercare advice (washing, reproofing, repairs)
- Technology translation (explaining GORE-TEX vs. Hydroshell)
- Local accountability (we're here next month, next year)
The Philosophy Match:
Both OD's and Berghaus:
- Value longevity over trends (build things that last)
- Prioritize function over fashion (performance first, aesthetics follow)
- Embrace repair culture (fix rather than replace)
- Maintain Northern independence (not owned by mega-conglomerates)
- Serve real people doing real things (not just Instagram mountaineers)
When you choose Berghaus from OD's, you're choosing competence at every level—from the jacket's engineering to the retailer supporting your ownership experience.