The past few weeks have had me thinking about sustainability. Maybe some exposure to fabric shows over the last few months have heightened my awareness of a greater need for sustainability issues in cycling products we purchase.
Bringing together performance materials and sustainability can be tricky, we are used to older ways with functionally proven older technology yet toxic chemicals. A good example of this is high performing rain jackets needing to be excellent at keeping water out, whilst breathing well by transferring moisture and being highly durable. Three criteria which can be difficult to achieve even in a non eco manner. The good news, things are changing for the better, these two hot items recently came across my desk.
Showers Pass Ecolyte
We built the EcoLyte Elite because we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between performance, features, packability, and environmental impact. Lightweight and eco-friendly, the EcoLyte Elite features 100% recycled face fabric and lining, with recycled zippers at the vents and back pocket. Like all new products since setting our Sustainability Goals, it features Clean Color dyes. Packable into its own back pocket, the EcoLyte Elite weighs a mere 13.5oz (women’s) / 13.7oz (men’s). Extended rides in the rain don’t drench with EcoLyte Elite. The 3-layer, DWR-treated fabric is seam taped for 100% waterproof protection, and a new brimmed hood keeps rain at bay. Details matter: a brushed inside collar and soft hand-feel interior add comfort without losing breathability. An updated Elite fit prioritizes on-the-bike comfort, while a slimmer forearm and partially elasticized wrist provides a clean look. Back and zip core vents aid in temperature regulation through strategic airflow.
- 100% recycled polyester face fabric and lining
- 100% recycled vent and pocket zippers
- Polypropylene waterproof-breathable membrane reduces environmental impact compared to PTFE and PU membranes
https://www.showerspass.com/products/mens-ecolyte-elite
Gore-Tex Laminates with Recycled Bionic Textile Debut
In an ongoing journey to sustainability, the consumer business of Gore’s Fabric Division brings to market 2-layer Gore-Tex laminates with Bionic textile made from plastic waste collected from coastal environments. Gore’s collaboration with Bionic, established in 2020, supports a mission of reducing ocean plastic through community engagement by investing in plastic recovery and sorting in a facility in Cóbano, Costa Rica. Sorted plastic waste is turned into materials used in the textile component of the two new laminates.
“The new Gore-Tex laminates with recycled Bionic textile are a testament to how we can use meaningful scientific innovation to seek bold solutions for some of the most complex problems facing our industry,” said Achim Loeffler, consumer fabrics business leader at Gore. “Our collaboration with Bionic and Patagonia will enable us to turn garbage into good.”
The Patagonia products, slated for F/W ‘23, are constructed with Gore’s new ePE membrane and 100 percent recycled Bionic polyester textile made from 50 percent plastic waste collected from Bionic’s operations in coastal communities and 50 percent from municipal collection. Product is Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certified.
Together with the Cóbano community, Gore and Bionic have collaborated to set up local waste management systems to repurpose plastic waste; recycling stations along roads and beaches; organized community beach cleanup events and community outreach; and centralized sorting, bailing and flaking facility and collection routes for local businesses, schools and other institutions.
*taken from Textile Insight November
https://www.gore-tex.com/sustainability
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