...is clothing for everyday life with special fabrics, treatments, cuts or constructions that allow for maximum movement, comfort and presentability.
This definition excludes other types of technical clothing for a variety of reasons.
If you're biking to work, why wouldn't you choose pants that are stretchy, odor resistant, and protect against the elements?
In a crowded subway, a huge down jacket takes up a lot of space and doesn't work if it gets wet; an insulated waterproof jacket with one or two layers underneath saves space, works better, and probably offers more freedom of movement.
He notes that "garments don't need all three of these features to be considered techwear, but it helps."
Hardshells, softshells, and jackets in between: A hardshell or shell is what most people think of with technical clothing. It's your classic thin, light, synthetic, kind of noisey weatherproof jacket. Though there's no unified definition to hardshell (or any of the other terms really), it usually means the highest level of protection: waterproof and windproof, hopefully very breathable but very unlikely to be air permeable unless there are vents.
Pants are becoming a larger market, especially for office workers that that bike to work or just want something for crappy weather. Basic Techwear pants will feature stretch, water repellency, and anti-microbial/odor resistance. Upon first glance they look like normal chinos or slacks, but closer inspection reveals a fabric between a canvas weave and a yoga pant. More extreme versions might be very water resistant but lack breathability; these will frequently use the term "softshell" as the fabric and construction will be similar to a softshell jacket. Outdoors brands frequently sell totally waterproof and windproof pants that may also be labeled "hardshell" like their impermeable jacket brethren.
Footwear is simultaneously the furthest into the technical realm, and the hardest Techwear to purchase. Atheletic brands, especially Nike, continue to push crazier new shoes into the market with amazing features, and are socially accepted to wear around casually. However, when you start looking for truly functional footwear for day-to-day issues like inclement weather, it gets difficult. Shoes are constantly exposed to the elements and infrequently removed. It's a constant battle between staying dry from the elements and not soaking through with sweat since there's no breathability or air flow. Most Techwear enthusiasts opt for comfort and aesthetics over function.
The information mentioned here and even more knowledge about techwear can be found in this guide!
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