Finding a more sustainable outdoor jacket may feel like preparing for an expedition. It includes considering multiple parts of the production process, from selected materials to manufacturing ethics. We look at the most important considerations, so you can make a values-based decision and avoid getting lost in the jungle of certification labels.

1 Material selection: How much is recycled?

Recycled materials such as polyester and nylon have become more popular in the outdoor industry and for good reason. They reduce the demand for virgin resources, generally emit less greenhouse gases, and promote circularity. However, not all recycled jackets are designed the same way. Some feature only a small percentage of recycled content, which may not make much difference in overall product sustainability. Consider the actual impact of selected materials and look for a jacket with high percentage of recycled material, preferably verified by a third-party certification.

2 Durability and repairability: Longevity is key

The jacket’s overall environmental impact decreases with its longevity. Choose brands that design their jackets for durability. Look for reinforced seams, strong zippers, and abrasion-resistant fabrics.  And if the material undergoes cuts or punctures during one of your adventures? A brand offering repair services or even simple DIY repair kits can keep your jacket going for years. For instance, Patagonia offers lifetime repair service and Arc’teryx’s site features easy-to-follow repair tutorials. The longer you use your jacket, the lighter your footprint, so let the repair patches be a source of pride.

3 Chemical safety rule number 1: Avoid PFAS

The jacket’s technical features such as waterproofness and water resistance come with a well-hidden environmental price tag. Despite upcoming tougher legislations, several outdoor jackets and/or their membranes still achieve water repellence through PFAS. Often called “forever chemicals,” PFAS are notorious for being both toxic and highly persistent in the environment. But alternatives do exist, and more and more brands are promoting them. Jack Wolfskin’s Texapore technology, which utilizes polyurethane membranes and coatings that do not contain PFAS, is one example. There are also less chemically treated alternatives such as waxed cotton that provide water resistance without toxicity.

4 Designed for recyclability: Closing the loop

The term recyclability might not be well-known for most gear shoppers, but it definitely should be. It means that both the design and the materials are chosen to make it possible to recycle the jacket when it is worn out. A jacket made from a single type of material (also called mono-materials), say 100% polyester, is often easier to recycle than one blended with various fibers. Brands like The North Face, through their “Clothes the Loop” program, make it easier by offering take-back and recycling options. This not only keeps materials out of landfills but also closes the loop on production, turning old jackets into something new.

5 Brand transparency reveals the bigger picture

In the sea of green claims within the industry, transparency is your best friend. Brands that are transparent about their supply chain, material sourcing requirements, and production methods demonstrate that they prioritize real sustainability efforts over marketing. Vaude, Ortovox and Houdini are good examples of brands that share detailed reports on their sustainability initiatives and environmental and social impact. The more you can learn about where and how your jacket was made, the better equipped you will be to make a responsible choice.

6 Sustainability certifications for more details

It is easy to get overwhelmed by the number of certifications and standards of materials, products, labor aspects etc. – but many of them exist for good reasons. And some are better and more trustworthy than others. Two key considerations to keep in mind: what organization is behind the certificate – is it independent and science-based, or is it an industry organization representing its member companies? And is the audit and authorization made by independent third parties, or by the company itself? You can learn more in our guide to 25 common sustainability standards .

7 Second-hand options: A growing segment

Going back to the longevity aspect – buying second-hand is often the easiest way to make a more sustainable choice. It’s actually a win-win situation: you get a great product at a significantly lower cost while decreasing the need for new production. Plus, the thrill of finding that perfect pre-owned jacket is hard to beat. And the second-hand outdoor market is growing fast. You can find a quality jacket on platforms like GearTrade and retailers such as Globetrotter and REI offer second hand sales.

 

Illustration: Padraig Croke