Photography by Luke Abiol

With the world changing, exploring the science of clothing as a means for shelter and protection from earthly elements is increasingly in vogue, if not de rigueur. Moisture-controlling, anti-bacterial, and UV-stopping are terms that all of a sudden seem to make greater sense, and perhaps provide a marketing angle as well. Fusing this high design with high-performance technology is Berlin-based Acronym, recognized worldwide for its ahead-of-the-curve men’s fashion. The line, revered by techies, designers, skaters, and globetrotting surfers, hits the mark for durable sleekness. The pieces are intelligent skins ready for action with sophisticated lines and details not typically found in sportswear. Considerable attention is placed on well-executed pockets, hidden zippers, and special compartments for iPod and earphones. The handsome GT-J11 Jacket, a geared-up blazer made of hard-shell Gore-Tex, is still versatile enough to wear on the slopes of St. Moritz and on the streets in Stockholm. Cofounder/designer Errolson Hugh is known in this elusive market for marrying military concepts of armor with utilitarian functionality. His vision of hybridization was an out-breeding of his experience working in the German Special Forces and applying it to commercial lines like Burton and Gravis. His own line far exceeds anyone’s expectations in that marriage of fashion and form. And for this reason the hefty price tag associated with collecting the line works, in theory, as insurance against the prevailing environmental dangers we face today.