In reply to simes303:
> the cheaper stuff in the outdoor shops will be fine for most people.
Agreed. So recommend it; point out
specific cheaper alternatives. That's what I try to do...
Try not to do it on review threads, though; given that this site is funded by advertisers, who submit items for review, it's rather bad form to post alternatives on review threads. Keep your recommendations to threads where people ask for suggestions.
My recommendations over the years have strongly featured the discount supermarket 'specials', clearance chains, and large European chains. They very rarely include high-end manufacturers, because I'm more concerned with value for money than absolute 'performance'. I am generally found head-to-toe in clothing from a large European chain. And underwear bought direct from China.
Good fabrics and technical cut/design aren't essential, but they can make life more comfortable. But good fabrics and design aren't the exclusive domain of the likes of Arc'teryx. Or Rab...