Is it just down to US brands v UK brands (since the technology is common to both), or is a mixture of the larger US market and US retailers?
Joan Collins has just pointed out the difficulty of getting a particular type of clothing (albeit not even available from the States). Its generally easier to find something 'niche' in the US, simply due to the size of the available market, but its also true that the US retailers (such as REI) offer more lines (check out Backcountry.com v Cotswold). Perhaps they are more adventurous, or are more willing to see different markets?
If you think about the volumes expected for the UK, I can understand why a lot of British clothing seems to fit where it touches. If your producing multiple sizes, why would you change the cut of a particular size so it looks good, when 'looking good' is generally not the first criteria to the average buyer! Or perhaps thats simply the perception of manufacturers and retailers?
Looking at Trailspace or similar, what your seeing a larger number of 'cottage' manufacturers in the States. They are people who wanted something very particular for themselves (particularly ultralighters), and found that they could sell what they'd made to others. The UK has a smaller market and therefore fewer manufacturers of this type. And where are they going have this stuff stocked? Go Outdoors? Cotswold?And what are the chances of a review?
I generally buy UK stuff (or at least available in the UK), because thats whats around, and of course you have to really try out something (or at least have heard of the brand) to want to buy a particular brand name. However, if you are after something more than UK brands have on offer, you can now get a review on it and then buy it, thanks to the internet (and your smart phone).
Personally, I'm shocked that the female market has been so neglected by the outdoor industry (customers with money!), and there is certainly a niche for a UK website specialising in female clothing. UK manufacturers/retails are going to have to raise their game - the net now means that there is a whole new source of supply out there, and if a UK brand can't cut it, the US only brands can and will supply it. I suspect the biggest problem will be the cost of shipping and the lack of 'try before you buy'.
Joan Collins - your probably not the only person to want the kind of product you describe in your other thread. Perhaps this might be the start of a cottage manufacturer, if you want to take orders?
Which is better? Depends what your after. And the bulk of it is made in the Far East anyway.
I did notice that the recent Outdoor Show in Salt Lake featured a Mountain Equipment stall, so there is obviously a two way street.
