We have been reviewing gear from Cascada for a little over a year now. This Italian brand is steadily growing and has a line of running and outdoor gear that fit in super well in the Pacific Northwest.
More about Cascada:
We design our products in Trentino (North Italy), using them daily in our adventures among lakes, woods and mountains, getting inspired by the environment that surrounds us. We create versatile and usable solutions for all outdoor activities, believing every product must satisfy multiple uses.
Read all our posts on Cascada!
They have a variety of recently launched items and we have recently been checking out a few of their new arrivals.
Lakeside Adventure Pants
Upon encountering the online images of the Lakewood Adventure Pants for the first time, my initial expectation was that of a robust and heavy-duty bottom, reminiscent of a canvas material that would shield me from the elements but might hinder my mobility. I dreaded the review discussing me walking around resembling Frankenstein.
However, the reality of the Lakewood Adventure Pants absolutely defied my initial impression. These pants are a remarkable blend of functionality, comfort, and versatility, suitable for various settings. No monster walks here!
Constructed from a blend of 92% Polyamide and 8% Elastane, these pants exhibit both toughness and flexibility. The tear-resistant rip-stop fabric and reinforced knees contribute to their durability, while the 4-way stretch ensures a forgiving fit, allowing unrestricted movement during various activities.
Additional features include a water-repellent treatment, particularly appreciated in the Pacific Northwest, along with standard side and rear pockets. While regular sizing generally suffices, and the fit being more “regular” than “slim”, opting for a slightly larger size is advisable for those with concerns.
It’s worth mentioning that the pants are intentionally shorter at the bottom, resting above the ankle for a specific design aesthetic. The minimalist approach of these pants is evident, with subtle Cascada branding patches being the only adornments. The inclusion of a “shoelace” type drawstring serves more as a decorative accent than a functional necessity, providing a touch of flair to the all-black pant. However, it can easily be detached in favor of a conventional belt, as I didn’t find it significantly contributed to functionality.
Notably, the Lakewood Adventure Pants effortlessly transition from outdoor adventures to everyday wear. Whether navigating Columbia Gorge Trails in the morning or enjoying a dinner at Pfriem Brewing in Hood River in the evening, these pants adapt seamlessly to different environments.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Riverside Hoodie
As a Pacific Northwestern Millennial, my formative years were shaped by an affinity for hoodies. In the past, my hoodie collection consisted primarily of bulky cotton behemoths adorned with logos from various bands or sports teams—impractical and unwieldy, especially in the incessant rain. As I’ve matured, my hoodie preferences have evolved, leaning towards styles with a full zip option.
Enter the Riverside Hoodie—a Cascada offering that piqued my interest. Having sampled Cascada products previously, I had confidence in the quality but questioned how this hoodie would align with my personal tastes.
My concerns were unfounded—I’ve come to adore this hoodie!
Foremost, I’d recommend sizing up for a more relaxed fit. Typically wearing Large tops, opting for an XL provided the ideal loose fit I prefer in a hoodie. If a more modern fit is your preference, sticking to standard sizing should suffice.
Aesthetically, the hoodie boasts a super minimalistic design—available in black and olive, with nothing more than a subtle Cascade script on the chest.
Much like the Adventure Pants, this hoodie is crafted from 90% Polyamide and 10% Elastane, featuring UPF 50+ sun protection. Notably, the sleeves are sufficiently long —an essential feature often overlooked for those with longer arms like myself.
Functionality aside, this hoodie has become a staple in my wardrobe over the past month+. Its versatility isn’t just due to its functional attributes—though those are certainly present—but because of its unparalleled comfort. The fabric provides ample stretch while maintaining effective body temperature regulation. It strikes a balance between breathability and warmth, making it an ideal middle ground. The soft-brushed material adds an unexpected level of coziness, elevating it beyond the typical functionality of a sweatshirt.
The Riverside Hoodie, while carrying a somewhat substantial price tag, is a worthwhile investment for the outdoor enthusiast in the PNW. I foresee it becoming a go-to item, offering both longevity and enduring comfort.
Wolfpack Snood
If you’re curious about the definition of a “snood,” you’re in good company. However, this accessory, often referred to as a “buff” in the United States, isn’t as intricate as it may seem. Its versatile design allows for various wearing styles, with popular options being a neckwarmer or a covering for the mouth and ears. It is seamless and made from 50% Merino Wool / 50% PrimaLoft construction.
Personally, I find it most effective around my neck during colder weather and as a thicker headband in warmer conditions. Regardless of your chosen style, the snood boasts a cool and distinctive design.
Overall:
It’s important to address the price point of these items, and we understand that shelling out $130+ for a hoodie may be a considerable investment for many. However, the undeniable factor here is the exceptional quality you’re receiving.
Despite the potential hesitation caused by the cost, every piece of apparel from Cascada exudes top-notch quality, leaving no room for doubts about its durability. While it might be a significant upfront investment, it’s one that promises longevity in your wardrobe for years to come.
As a tip, we suggest sizing up, a practice we often recommend with apparel companies originating from Europe. This ensures a comfortable fit and enhances your overall satisfaction with your purchase.
Impressed by this European brand, I find the styles in everything we’ve received to be a captivating blend of classic aesthetics. The items not only exude solid functionality but also boast a stylish edge. We look forward to more from Cascada and are eager to witness the continued fusion of fashion and functionality.
Cascada - New Arrivals
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Cascada
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Thank you to Cascada for providing us with test items. Please read our transparency page for info on how we do our reviews.