From the crimson dunes of Uluru to the pristine azure seas of the Great Barrier Reef, and the lush, wildlife-abundant rainforests, Australia's natural beauty is unparalleled. It's no shocker then that Australians are big on the great outdoors. This deep-seated love for Mother Nature is woven into the fabric of the nation's soul, with roots stretching back over 50,000 years. This bond, respecting and cherishing the earth, is a cornerstone of Aboriginal culture. And with it, choosing outdoor gear that is sustainable and respects Australia's landscape comes naturally.
For that reason, today we dive into how some of the top 14 outdoor sustainable gear brands. Because, really, if you're all about embracing the wilderness, shouldn't your gear reflect that too?
Ah, Wilderness Wear, shining a light on what it means to blend style with conscience in the pursuit of sustainable outdoor gear in Australia. As an 100% Australian brand, Wilderness Wear takes pride in its use of natural fibers, particularly merino wool, for their comprehensive range of outdoor clothing. This includes everything from tops and bottoms to jumpers, socks, and various accessories designed for outdoor activities. Their dedication to sustainability extends to sourcing merino wool from local sheep, ensuring not just the superior quality of their garments but also the support of ethical and environmentally friendly practices.
Launched in 2020 by a team passionate about hiking and the outdoors, Ottie is a Melbourne-based brand that has quickly made a name for itself in the sustainable outdoor apparel market. Specialising in ethically and locally sourced merino wool, Ottie’s product range, which began with a signature relaxed fit t-shirt, is designed by hikers for hikers. Their ethos? Simple. Make gear that's as good for the planet as it is for your outdoor adventures. And let's be honest, a t-shirt that feels like a second skin and champions the local economy? That's the dream.
Merino Country takes "homegrown" to a whole new level. Straight from the heart of Queensland, Merino Country brings high-quality merino wool products directly from former sheep farmer, making t-shirts, thermals, and everything in between. All garments are produced in their Queensland factory to guarantee quality, ethical practices, and sustainability. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their choice of high-quality Australian merino wool, a natural, renewable, and biodegradable resource that provides excellent thermal regulation and moisture management, making it ideal for outdoor and hiking wear.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Brisbane, DK Active is leading the charge with its sustainable and high-perfomance workout gear. With a mission to foster inner wellbeing, self-love, and body positivity, dk active has committed to ethical manufacturing and the use of sustainable textiles. The brand uses Luxury Italian Lycra, a blend of new and recycled materials, minimizing environmental impact without compromising on quality. From leggings to tanks, their collection is a testament to how sustainable outdoor gear in Australia can be both functional and kind to our planet.
Allbirds, hailing from the scenic landscapes of New Zealand, is on a mission to redefine comfort with its sustainable footwear. Dubbed "the world's most comfortable shoes," this brand marries simplicity with sustainability, crafting its range from fine Merino wool and other earth-friendly materials. But their commitment doesn't stop at your feet; even their packaging is a nod to Mother Earth, boasting 90% post-consumer recycled cardboard. Through the lens of their B-Corp certification, Allbirds is a shining example of how embracing natural resources, like sustainable wood pulp from FSC® Certified eucalyptus trees, can revolutionize industry standards while prioritizing our planet's health.
Amble Outdoors - originally known as Team Timbuktu - is breaking new ground in the world of sustainable outdoor gear in Australia, turning discarded plastic water bottles into quality activewear and rainwear. This clever recycling not only keeps plastics away from our oceans and dumps but also cuts down on the energy and water splash traditionally needed for synthetic fabrics. Crafted with care in Taiwan, Indonesia, and China by trusted suppliers and backed by third-party accreditations, they ensure their operations are up to snuff with local regulations and safe workspaces. And their eco-footprint? Even lighter, thanks to corn starch-based packaging that happily returns to the earth. Plus, their rain jackets are as practical as they are green, with smart touches like wrist clasps and adjustable drawstrings.
Woolerina shines bright in the constellation of sustainable outdoor apparel, weaving comfort and longevity into every piece. Their secret? Merino wool from sheep living the good life, free from mulesing, ensuring the fleece is as ethical as it is snug. With a spread that covers everything from tees to tights, and cozy accessories for all ages, they’re a go-to for outdoor buffs. Beyond the threads, they're marked by Ethical Clothing Australia, a nod to their unwavering stand on labor rights and environmental stewardship. Woolerina is a beacon for those seeking gear that loves the planet as much as they do, boosting both ecological well-being and local craftsmanship.
Cotopaxi is a brand that exemplifies sustainability and ethical production in the outdoor gear industry. A staggering 94% of their products include repurposed, recycled, or responsibly sourced materials. Their (Re)Purpose Collection stands out by using leftover fabric from other companies, reducing waste significantly. Cotopaxi is committed to human rights throughout its supply chain, aligning with the UN Global Compact and undergoing annual audits to ensure fair labor practices. The brand is also deeply involved in social causes, donating 1% of its annual revenue to the Cotopaxi Foundation, which invests in critical areas such as health, education, and livelihood in Latin America. Certifications and memberships include being a Certified B-Corp and a member of 1% for the Planet, showcasing their comprehensive approach to sustainability and ethical business practices.
Patagonia, a titan in the sustainable outdoor gear in Australia scene, is all in for protecting wild spaces and producing their clothes ethically. They’ve pledged to the fight against climate change and conservation efforts. With 89% of their products made from "preferred" materials like organic cotton and recycled synthetics, they’re on the front lines of innovation, even turning old fishing nets into the new NetPlus fabric. Their commitment runs through their entire operation, with the vast majority of their goods coming from Fair Trade Certified factories. Patagonia is also dedicating 1% of revenue to grassroots nonprofits and establishing the Holdfast Collective to channel profits into environmental battles. They are also a certified B-Corp and 1% for the Planet member, leading the charge in doing business the right way.
Kusaga Athletic is revolutionising the game with a fabric that sips just a fraction of the water needed for the average cotton tee. Their claim to fame? The "world's greenest T-shirt," crafted from their pioneering EcoLite fabric. It's a dream for multi-day treks, boasting superior breathability, superior moisture wicking, and a knack for staying fresh. With the vegan seal of approval from PETA and the B Corporation certification, Kusaga stands as a testament to the power of business as a catalyst for change across the social, environmental, and economic spectrum.
Over in New Zealand, Kathmandu is setting the pace in the Sustainable Outdoor Gear in Australia scene with its unwavering commitment to recycled materials and responsible practices. Earning its stripes as a certified B Corporation, Kathmandu is all about hitting the high marks in social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. From mindful product design and material choice to engaging with communities and championing conservation, Kathmandu is on a mission to fuel outdoor adventures that leave the lightest of footprints.
Founded on Australian shores by a dynamic duo in 2019, Zorali wraps up sustainability in a package that's as easy on the eyes as it is on the planet. With a keen eye on recycled and organic fibers like hemp, they're weaving a future where Sustainable Outdoor Gear in Australia doesn't just perform but also inspires. Zorali's eco-credentials are solid, with a 100% carbon-neutral promise, partnership with Climate Neutral for emission wrangling, and an ambitious tree-planting initiative—85,000 and counting—for every piece of gear sold.
Sea to Summit is on a mission to dial down the environmental impact of exploring the great outdoors. By leaning into traceable recycled materials, bluesign® approved fabrics, and cleaner, greener C0 non-PFC water repellent finishes, they're setting new standards. They're also ensuring every feather in their sleeping bags and quilts meets the Responsible Down Standard (RDS), moving towards more sustainable packaging, and championing fair labor practices and the great outdoors through support of SA8000 and various non-profits dedicated to preserving our natural playgrounds.
Proudly Australian-owned, ONE PLANET is crafting outdoor gear with a heart in Melbourne, balancing ethical, social, and environmental considerations with every stitch. From backpacks to sleeping bags, and a whole range of outdoor essentials, they're all in on sustainability. By designing and making a significant portion of their gear in-house, ONE PLANET reinforces its dedication to environmental stewardship and social responsibility, ensuring adventurers can explore the world with gear that's not just made for the wild but also made with respect for it.
In the world of Sustainable Outdoor Gear in Australia, getting to grips with eco-labels like Bluesign, 1% for the Planet, and B Corporation can be a game-changer for those of us keen to tread lightly on the earth. These badges of honor guide eco-conscious shoppers towards choices that align with their values.
Bluesign is the beacon for safety and sustainability in textile manufacturing. When you spot a Bluesign product label, you're looking at a garment that's been made with the smallest possible environmental footprint and without harmful substances, right from the get-go. Brands that nail the Bluesign certification, such as Mountain Hardwear, are on the front lines, ensuring their outdoor gear production meets stringent environmental, health, and safety benchmarks.
Then there's 1% for the Planet, a global alliance of businesses, individuals, and nonprofits all rolling up their sleeves to address our planet's environmental challenges head-on. Members, like Sierra Designs, commit to donating 1% of their yearly sales to environmental causes. This means every time you gear up, you're also chipping in to help mother nature.
B Corporation certification is like the gold star for companies excelling in social and environmental responsibility, transparency, and accountability. Take Cotopaxi, for example, a B Corp certified brand in the outdoor gear sphere. They're not just about creating gear that lasts and reduces environmental impact; they're also deeply invested in tackling social issues such as poverty and inequality. B Corp companies are bound to weigh the effects of their decisions not just on their bottom line, but on their workers, customers, suppliers, community, and the planet. It’s a robust sign of a brand's pledge to be a force for good.
And let's not overlook the Responsible Down Standard, a crucial effort to ensure the ethical treatment of ducks and geese that provide down. The RDS encourages the down industry to practice kindness, awarding a thumbs up to those leading the charge in animal welfare
What's fascinating here is not just their dedication to the environment but also how both brands embody the spirit of innovation and sustainability. It's kind of like how I appreciate the innovation in my life, always looking for that next sustainable hack that makes life near the sea even more blissful.
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