December 5, 2025 2025’s sustainability award-winning outdoor gear

Five new products – from backpacks to soles to zippers – are awarded for setting new industry benchmarks in durability, material sourcing, and product longevity.

FSC-certified outsole wins Scandinavian Outdoor Award

Icebug was awarded the Scandinavian Outdoor Award for Sustainability for its initiative to integrate Forest Stewardship Council–certified natural rubber into its footwear outsoles. The project resulted in a supply chain that ensures no deforestation and reduces dependence on fossil-based rubber.

To enable this change, Icebug coordinated with other brands to increase demand, helping a key rubber processor achieve FSC certification. This allowed Icebug to scale its use of FSC-certified rubber to represent between 23 and 62 percent of outsole weight in relevant models. The rubber is used for traction-focused soles in outdoor footwear, targeting reductions in climate impact.

Key features:

• FSC-certified natural rubber (23–62% of outsole weight)
• Verified no-deforestation sourcing
• Supply chain collaboration to achieve certification

Best Product for 3D Composite Puller and Top 5 for Natulon zipper

YKK received two recognitions in the ISPO Textrends Accessories category. The 3D Composite Puller won Best Product for its use of recyclable bio-based TPU, enabled by an on-demand 3D printing system that avoids traditional molding and minimizes production waste.

Meanwhile, YKK’s Natulon Plus Fiber Sourced zipper earned a Top 5 placement for advancing mono-material construction using textile-derived recycled PET. It integrates recycled PET into both the tape and zipper elements, with the slider made of recycled zinc. This supports garment recyclability and contributes to closing the loop in textile-to-textile recycling systems.

Key features (3D Composite Puller):

• Recyclable bio-based TPU
• On-demand 3D printing
• No mold tooling required

Key features (NATULON Plus zipper):

• Mono-material construction using recycled PET
• Components made from textile waste
• Recycled zinc slider
• Designed for disassembly and reuse

Credit: YKK

Kajka X-Lätt 45 recognized for repairability and wood frame

Fjällräven’s Kajka X-Lätt 45 trekking backpack earned an ISPO Award for its combination of low weight, renewable materials, and longevity-focused design. The sub-1 kg pack features a laminated birch wood frame, offering a renewable and lighter alternative to plastic or aluminum structures.

The body is constructed from Vinylon F, a long-lasting, weather-resistant fabric. Every component is designed for disassembly and repair, extending product lifespan and supporting maintenance rather than disposal. The modular design also includes detachable storage options for user adaptability in different trail conditions.

Key features:

• Laminated birch wood frame
• Durable Vinylon F fabric
• Fully repairable, modular construction
• Lightweight: under 1 kilogram

Credit: Fjällräven

Mythic -6 sleeping bag balances low weight with PFAS-free finishes

The Rab Mythic -6 sleeping bag, recipient of the ISPO Award 2025, is engineered for cold conditions with a focus on thermal efficiency and reduced environmental impact. It weighs just 700 grams, thanks to 900 fill-power goose down and a patented baffle construction that reduces cold spots and pack size.

The product includes recycled linings, a PFAS-free hydrophobic down treatment, and a Pertex Quantum outer shell. It is filled in the UK and produced within an audited, socially responsible supply chain. Packaging has also been revised to use recyclable and recycled materials.

Key features:

• RDS-certified 900FP down
• Recycled lining with heat-reflective tech
• PFAS-free hydrophobic down treatment
• Hand-filled and regionally produced

Credit: Rab

Roller Pro redefines carry-on luggage with carbon fiber build

The Peak Design Roller Pro won the ISPO Award 2025 for its overall product design, combining functionality, usability, and engineering precision. Alongside its standout design, the bag also demonstrates a strong sustainability profile built on recycled content, chemical-free treatments, and durable, repairable components.

Most structural and mechanical parts were custom-engineered to ensure long-term use and easy maintenance. The trolley system uses 3K weave carbon fiber tubes and a machined, anodized aluminum handle chassis—components selected for strength and longevity. The shell pairs a 70 percent recycled polycarbonate core with a 100 percent recycled, Bluesign-approved 550D Versa Shell nylon exterior. The fabric is treated with a PFAS-free water-repellent coating, offering weather protection without harmful chemistry.

Other materials and systems support long-term durability while minimizing impact: glass-reinforced nylon hinges, abrasion-resistant zippers, and EVA foam padding. Interior and exterior details – such as recycled polyester pocket linings and Bluesign-approved Hypalon patches – are selected to extend product life and reduce resource use.

Key features:

• 70% recycled polycarbonate shell
• 100% recycled, Bluesign-approved nylon exterior
• PFAS-free water-repellent finish
• Durable carbon fiber and aluminum trolley handle system
• Custom parts built for durability and repairability
• Recycled interior materials and trims

Credit: Peak Design