Brand in Focus: Tilak (Czechia)
Brand in Focus: Tilak (Czechia)
A Breath of Fresh Air in a Trend-Driven Market
As many big brands scramble to capitalise on fleeting trends—pushing out products that serve a moment rather than a purpose—it's particularly refreshing to see a company that stays true to the old adage: “Do one thing, and do it really well.” For me, Tilak is a standout example.
A Legacy of Purpose and Performance
Founded in Czechia in the 1980s, Tilak is a family-run business with a long-standing tradition of producing high-quality garments for outdoor use. In an era marked by the booming popularity of outdoor sports—especially over the past five years—Tilak remains impressively impervious to hype. Instead of chasing trends, the brand has stayed laser-focused on its mission: to craft the highest quality equipment for the most demanding environments.
A strong testament to this commitment is Tilak’s association with the Czech mountain rescue, who use their garments in some of the most extreme conditions.
Discovering Tilak
I first encountered Tilak three years ago while searching for a no-frills, high-quality shell jacket. At the time, fashion was deeply immersed in the 'gorpcore' trend, which brought technical outdoor gear into urban spaces. Yet I found that many brands had begun prioritising aesthetics over functionality.
I came across Tilak via British retailer END. Clothing. The technical specifications of their products immediately caught my attention, and I’ve followed the brand ever since.
The Flagship Store Experience in Prague
A few months ago, while visiting Prague for work (and nursing a stress fracture in my foot), I hopped on an e-bike and made my way to Tilak’s flagship store. Located outside the tourist-heavy Old Town, the store sits in a more serene part of the city.
The space is beautifully arranged with an open-plan layout that showcases the full range of Tilak products. Garments are thoughtfully displayed according to their intended environments and sporting applications, creating an experience that feels more like a functional gallery than a shop.
Standout Gear and Materials
As with any brick-and-mortar retail experience, the chance to see and feel the products offers a deeper appreciation for the materials Tilak develops. I was especially impressed by the Orgil jacket from their new collection. Made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and treated with DWR (durable water repellency), it's an incredibly light, abrasion-resistant garment—ideal for climbing. Not in any need to anything substantial, I picked up the ultralight top which has served me well running both on road and trails.
You can check out the full spec [here].
(Pictured above, Orgil Jacket in Balck)
Poutnik: Designed for the Urban Explorer
In addition to their core outdoor line, Tilak has recently introduced Poutnik, a range designed for urban exploration. Much like Arc’teryx’s Veilance line, Poutnik combines technical performance with minimalist design.
Any product that maintains Tilak’s signature quality while offering silhouettes suited to daily life immediately grabs my attention. You can browse the latest Poutnik collection [here].
Pictured above, Tilak Poutnik Line
Final Thoughts: Quality Over Hype
When choosing where to spend your money, everyone has different considerations. For me, Tilak ticks all the boxes: a family-owned brand, locally produced garments, exceptional quality, and a strong commitment to customer care. They offer a four-year warranty on all products, and their in-store service includes repairs—ensuring your gear stands the test of time.
In a fashion landscape increasingly dominated by disposable trends, Tilak is a brand rooted in quality, purpose, and integrity. If you’re in the market for high-performance outdoor wear, look no further.