The allure of functional clothing is far reaching. From classic waxed jackets to more lightweight, technical layers, garments designed with a purpose have always had a place in the wardrobe of the style-concerned. But for some, functional clothing is more than useful. While you or I might appreciate a field jacket’s pockets, which are perfect for storing phones, wallets and keys, those in the military rely on said clothes for their lives. This was certainly the case for the founders of ThruDark, a performance clothing brand with a unique military connection.

Founded in 2018 by former UK Special Forces operators Anthony Stazicker and Louis Tinsley, ThruDark is one of the more impressive outdoor brands, not least because of the testing each garment is put through. ‘ThruDark was born from a need for resilience,’ says Stazicker. ‘We’re a performance clothing brand, but more than that, we design gear that’s been tested in the most extreme environments by those who’ve lived through the toughest challenges. Our kit is for those who refuse to quit – whether they’re on the frontlines or pushing the limits of adventure. The ethos behind ThruDark is simple: it’s uncompromising, just like the people who wear it.’

This idea can be seen throughout the brand’s offering, from its T-shirts to its parkas. Each piece is designed to serve a purpose, cut from high-performing technical fabrics and with an impressive attention to detail. Its End of Days Parka is a particularly strong example. Made from a waterproof, laminate membrane fabric, it comes with reinforced, stronger-than-steel Dyneema and Cordura shoulders and cuffs, as well as Polartec smart fleece lining and goose-down fill for warmth. Elsewhere, there’s a multitude of interior and exterior pockets, and a synthetic-fur-lined hood for when the weather really turns south. It looks the part, but again, it’s the testing that makes it stand out from similar designs.

‘There are a lot of functional garments out there,’ says Stazicker. ‘But what sets ThruDark apart is the personal experience and testing that goes into every piece. We’re not just designing these products; we’re using them, breaking them and refining them until they meet the highest possible standard. Our garments aren’t just for show – they’re designed to perform in environments where failure isn’t an option. We combine cutting-edge technology, like bonded seams and military-grade materials, with our real-world experience to create gear that stands up to the worst you can throw at it.’

Now in its sixth year, the brand is continuing to develop and refine its range. Its latest collection, HeriTech, is the culmination of everything it’s learned to this point. It takes a series of classic, heritage-inspired pieces and reinvents them in hi-tech fabrics, contemporary fits and the brand’s signature detailing. ‘The HeriTech Collection is our nod to the past with a forward-thinking approach,’ Stazicker tells us. ‘It blends heritage designs with the latest advancements in fabric technology. We’ve taken inspiration from classic outdoor garments but pushed them further with modern materials and features.’

The range comprises fleece jackets, gilets and knitwear. The most impressive piece is the Grange jacket, which is ThruDark’s take on the classic waxed jacket. Having partnered with British Millerain for the fabric, ThruDark has made use of the Lancashire mill’s TekWax, a new waterproof cotton that comes with a uniquely dry finish.

‘One of my personal favourites from the collection is the Grange jacket,’ says Stazicker. ‘It takes that timeless silhouette but adds serious durability and performance with water-resistant fabrics and thermal technology. It’s rugged, functional, but with that heritage feel that’s been brought up to speed for today’s demands. It’s the perfect balance of style and functionality.’ Plus, it’s always reassuring to know it’ll have your back, whether on an Arctic expedition or not.

HeriTech Grange jacket, £595; thrudark.com