In 1993, a small group of people who had weathered years in the outdoor industry decided to get together and form Mountain Hardwear. In addition to working in the outdoor industry, the Mountain Hardwear founders were avid outdoors people themselves Mountain Hardwear has always focused on bringing radical thinking to the gear they make. That's why they have a section in our website that talks about the innovation they've built into their products. Hybrid vigor: Polartec® Power Stretch® Hardface melds the stretch, warmth, and breathability of a fleece with the protection of a soft shell. Treated with an advanced surface-fusion polymer for abrasion resistance and water repellency. Power Stretch side panels add stretch and breathability where you need it. Wear alone, or use as a mid-layer.