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  • Lambswool
    Lambswool is the highest quality of sheep's wool, taken from sheep at their first shearing when the fibers are shorter. Lambswool is supremely soft, smooth, resilient and elastic. It is the most hypoallergenic of all wools making it ideal for the production of garments worn close to the skin.
  • Laminated Steel
    A form of steel created by layering at least two distinct types of steel together. A common variation of laminated steel involves placing a layer of high-carbon steel in between layers of stainless steel. The metals are then heated and bonded together during the forging process to create laminated steel, offering the superior edge retention of high-carbon steel and the corrosion resistance of stainless steel.
  • Last
    A last is the solid form over which a shoemaker fashions a shoe. The last is what creates the anatomical portion or substructure of a shoe or boot. A last is typically made of wood, metal or some type of plastic, and is a crucial component of footwear design.
  • Lawn
    Lawn is a light, fine cloth made with combed cotton or high-count linen yarn that supplies a crisp, crease-resistant finish. Lawn has a silky, smooth feel and is known for its semi-transparency. Lawn cloth is commonly used for dresses, blouses, underwear, lingerie and curtains.
  • Leader
    A section of material that is attached to the end of a fly line. Fly fishing leader is made of nylon filament or another lightweight material. Most fly fishing leaders are tapered. A fisherman will simply attach the thickest section to the end of the fly line. The thinnest portion, called the tippet, is then attached to the fly.
  • Lenpur®
    Lenpur® is a renewable, sustainably-cultivated wood fiber used in clothing, bedding, towels and other housewares. Lenpur® has an exceptionally soft weave that feels similar to cashmere. Lenpur® wicks moisture well and has thermal properties that increase comfort in both hot and cold conditions.
  • Lexan®
    Lexan® is a polycarbonate resin thermoplastic known for its high durability, heat resistance and stain resistance. Lexan® is commonly used to make water bottles and kitchen accessories, but is also used for a wide range of other applications, from space helmets to high-performance, bullet-proof windshields.
  • Light-duty
    Light-duty is a term associated with footwear and describes shoes or boots designed for short hikes and general use. Light-duty footwear is best for suited for maintained trails and is typically not ideal for extended treks with a heavy pack or over extremely rugged terrain.
  • Linen
    Linen is a textile made from the stems of the flax plant, and is valued for its exceptionally cool and fresh feel in hot weather. Linen fibers are stronger and more lustrous than cotton and wick moisture easily, keeping the wearer comfortable. Linen is typically found in aprons, tablecloths, bags, sport coats and other apparel.
  • Liner Lock
    This mechanism is designed to keep a folding knife from closing accidentally. A liner lock has a locking mechanism tucked inside the handle, usually near the blade’s pivot point. The lock itself is part of a metal liner. To disengage a liner lock, simply press the small spring lever.
  • Lining
    Linings are the separate, inner layer of an item used to form a smooth surface over the seams and interior construction. Depending upon their fiber content, linings can perform different functions, such as wicking away moisture, adding comfort, improving ventilation, keeping down filaments within their baffles or protecting thin membranes like Gore-Tex®.
  • LiteFoam
    LiteFoam is an interlocking hole pattern stamped into the foam core used in Therm-A-Rest® self-inflating camping mattresses. LiteFoam is lightweight, compact, insulating and flexible, which translates into a lighter sleeping pad without the loss of comfort or warmth.
  • Lockback
    Sometimes called a spine lock, this mechanism is designed to keep a folding knife from closing accidentally. A typical lockback knife has a release lever in the spine near the pommel. Once a lockback knife is fully opened, the lock will engage, preventing the blade from closing until the lever is depressed.
  • Locker Loop
    A locker loop is a small loop of fabric sewn on the back of a garment near the neckline. The locker loop allows for a garment to be easily hung from a hook when not being worn.
  • Loden
    Loden is a thick, woolen material derived from the coarse, oily wool of mountain sheep. Loden originated in the Tyrolean Alps in the 16th century and is still highly popular among sportsmen today because of its luxurious nap. The nap is combed downward to create a shingle effect, which helps shed water effectively.
  • Loft
    Loft refers to the amount of “dead space” or air throughout an insulating material inside a sleeping bag or garment. Since small air pockets evenly dispersed within insulation increase the insulating ability, loft is an important factor that determines how warm an article will be. Loft essentially describes the “puffiness” of down or synthetic insulation.
  • Loop Tab
    A loop tab is a tabbed loop that is secured with a button or snap. A loop tab is often used as a decorative touch on the back of an overcoat to hold the waist belt in place. Loop tabs are also common as closures for rear pant pockets to ensure the contents do not slide out while seated.
  • Lumiza®
    Lumiza® is a soft, moisture-wicking fabric made of highly water-absorbent acrylic fibers. It is often used in athletic and hiking socks in order to keep feet dry during high-energy activities. Lumiza® actually pulls perspiration away from the skin to minimize blisters and discomfort, which can both be caused by moisture and friction.
  • Lycra®
    Lycra® is a synthetic elastane fiber that adds stretch, fit, shape retention and durability to other fibers. Developed in 1958 by DuPont, Lycra® transforms the performance of a fabric and aids in long-term resistance to body acids, making it ideal for high-activity garments.