Mountain Equipment, Katam Jacket - Men's

Patagonia runs their own repair center (the largest garment repair facility in North America) and will fix zippers, tears, and seam failures for free or at cost through their Worn Wear program. Many products use recycled polyester and organic cotton with double-stitched seams. The Ironclad Guarantee covers manufacturing defects for the life of the product. The R1 fleece and Nano Puff jackets are r/BuyItForLife staples, with users reporting 10-15 year lifespans under regular outdoor use.

Knit in Northfield, Vermont on 168-needle machines that create a denser weave than standard socks. The merino wool blend (typically 61-66% merino) is naturally antimicrobial and moisture-wicking, with nylon reinforcement at the heel and toe where socks actually wear through. The unconditional lifetime warranty is the real deal — if they develop a hole for any reason, you send them back and get a new pair. BIFL community consensus puts these as the single most-recommended clothing item on the subreddit.

The waxed cotton outer shell (6oz or 8oz Sylkoil) is a time-tested weatherproofing method — the wax fills the weave and makes the fabric wind and water resistant without any membrane that can delaminate. Barbour's re-waxing service (or DIY with Thornproof Dressing) restores the waterproofing indefinitely. The corduroy collar, brass hardware, and ring-pull zippers are chosen for longevity over fashion. Made in South Shields, England since 1894. The Beaufort and Bedale models are favorites of farmers, gamekeepers, and the British countryside crowd who actually need their jackets to work.