Sports and Outdoor Gear: A Plain-Language Glossary
A quick plain-English guide to common terms for shelter, packs, footwear, climbing gear, and technical fabrics.
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Question: What do common sports and outdoor gear terms mean, explained in plain English?
Shelter and sleep systems
Tent: a portable shelter made of fabric and poles. Sleeping bag: an insulated bag designed for sleeping outdoors. Sleeping pad: a cushioned layer placed under a sleeping bag for comfort and insulation. Tarp: a large sheet of waterproof fabric used as a ground cover or simple shelter.
Packs and carrying gear
Backpack: a bag carried on the back with straps. Daypack: a small backpack for short trips. Internal-frame pack: a backpack with a frame inside the pack body to help distribute weight. Hip belt: a padded strap around the hips that helps transfer weight from the shoulders to the hips.
Footwear and traction
Hiking boot: a sturdy, ankle-supporting boot for walking on trails. Trail shoe: a low-cut, flexible shoe for light hikes. Crampon: a frame of spikes attached to boots for walking on ice or snow. Traction: the grip of footwear on different surfaces.
Climbing and safety gear
Climbing rope: a dynamic rope that stretches to absorb energy in a fall. Harness: a webbed support worn around the waist and legs. Carabiner: a metal linking device with a spring-loaded gate. Helmet: protective headgear used during climbing to reduce the risk of head injury from falls or falling objects.
Technical fabric terms
Waterproof: fabric that does not let water pass through. Breathable: fabric that allows moisture vapor to escape. Insulation: material that traps warmth to keep the body warm. Wicking: fabric that draws moisture away from the skin to help keep it dry. Ripstop: fabric woven with a reinforcement pattern to resist tearing.