The Test of Travel

Travel is the ultimate test for a garment; it speaks volumes about just how comfortable a piece of clothing is.

Comfort, for me, has two levels of excellence and it is based on answering these two simple questions. The Silver level question is - will you wear it during your time away at your destination? And then, the Gold level qualifier is, will you wear it while you are travelling to said destination. 

Whenever I have decided to go Mary Kondo on my wardrobe, I try to think of pieces that I haven’t travelled with or worn during travel – those are the first ones to get on the cull list. And if I haven’t considered taking it with me to wear while there, then either it’s not the right kit for wherever I am heading, or else it’s high maintenance and won’t be easy to manage, or maybe I have simply outgrown it in style. My bowler hat is a classic example of such, as are my Japanese denims. But contrast this with my XYXX Urban Cargo Joggers, which have served me over so many trips, they deserve a frequent flyer miles card of their own. Either way, travel gear is a great way to decide your apparel selection – and this applies to not just joggers and hoodies but even to items as diverse as three-piece suits and beachwear.

But being lightweight, soft and comfortable aside, what else should a garment have as a feature that makes it travel-worthy.

1. Pockets: Pockets are essential when travelling, whether you're using them to store items or to keep your hands warm. It’s even better if one of those pockets has a zip closure to ensure nothing falls out. This is where XYXX's Cargo Jogger’s shine—they're designed with practical, zippered pockets that provide a safe and secure way to store your essentials on the go. These joggers combine convenience with style, making them an ideal choice for travellers who need both functionality and comfort.

2. Aesthetics: I want my travel gear to be comfortable enough to fall asleep in, but when I wake up and need to get around – the house, the airport lounge, the hotel, or the city – it shouldn’t make me feel uneasy or shy about wearing it while walking about. It should look respectably decent, nothing too creased nor ruffled; there’s a difference between looking like someone on a long-haul stopover and outright bedraggled and the clothes should make that difference crisply so.

3. Durability: Durability is essential for travel gear, which is why cargos are a top choice. They aren't just built to withstand the constant friction during long hours of wearing —they also feature quick-dry technology. This means you can keep going without worrying about being uncomfortable. Cargos jogger’s are truly built to last, designed to endure the rigours of travel without fraying or losing their shape, making them a reliable companion on any adventure.

4.Static: I hate it when I reach out for something while sitting in my plane seat and feel a stinging charge run through my finger. Seat covers may have something to do with it but you can reduce a lot of this by simply sticking with natural fabrics. That’s why XYXX – one of the prominent brands in men’s clothing, uses naturally sourced materials that offer premium comfort. Not only do they reduce the chances of static, but they also feel super soft on the skin, which gives you the freedom to wear them all day without causing any irritation. 

5. Colour options: When it comes to travel, dark colours are often the go-to choice since they hide stains better. However, once you reach your destination, you might want to switch things up with brighter, more cheerful tones. That's where options like Straight Fit Chino Shorts in Brick Red or Sand Brown come in, offering a stylish yet practical alternative. Pair them with timeless tees in vibrant hues like Azure Blue or Butter Yellow to keep your look fresh and lively. Having a range of colour options ensures you’re always dressed for the occasion, whether you're on the move or exploring a new place.

So, if you are looking for a perfect companion for travel, then XYXX has it all- from versatile essentials to smart-casual pieces. Whether you’re jetting off for the weekend or a long-haul journey, XYXX makes sure you’re always prepared. That shared, do let me know if this helped plan your next trip better, and I wish you safe travels ahead.