“It was a massive endeavor to be the first to pull off using recycled materials in all our waterproof shellsโ€”it took years of rigorous durability and wet-weather testing and a multi-level, multi-national process with suppliersโ€”but we got to a point when we decided a shell either uses recycled fabrics and is Fair Trade Certifiedโ„ข sewn, or we wonโ€™t make it. Shell, Yeah!”

As a leader in the outdoor apparel industry its fantastic to see Patagonia taking the step to incorporate recycled materials into 100% of their shells. You might end up shelling out a premium for a jacket that uses recycled fabrics and is Fair Trade Certifiedโ„ข sewn but you can rest easy that your footprint is a little lighter while enjoying all the benefits of a high-quality garment on the hill. Well done Patagonia, I hope more companies follow suit.

Francis Xavier is a seasoned writer for Unofficial Networks, bringing a lifetime of outdoor experience to his work. Having lived in a ski resort town for years he has a deep connection to mountain culture....