Sustainable Outdoor Gear: Eco-Friendly Brands Guide
At The Shoe Collective, we believe that protecting the places we love to explore starts with the gear we choose. That's why we've curated a collection of sustainable outdoor gear from brands that share our commitment to environmental responsibility and social impact.
Based near the shores of Lake Michigan, we understand firsthand the importance of preserving our natural resources. These four brands represent the best in sustainable outdoor gear—combining performance, durability, and purpose.
Cotopaxi: Gear for Good
What Makes Them Sustainable:
- Certified B-Corporation
- 100% recycled materials in jackets, bags, and accessories
- Responsibly-sourced 800-fill down insulation
- Supports global poverty alleviation through their foundation
- Del Día collection uses leftover factory materials, making each piece unique
Why We Love Them: Cotopaxi proves that business can be a force for good. Their vibrant, colorful designs stand out on the trail, and every purchase supports communities in need. From their bestselling Allpa travel packs made with 100% recycled fabrics to their warm Fuego down jackets, Cotopaxi delivers premium performance with purpose.
Top Picks:
- Allpa 35L Travel Pack - Perfect carry-on with 100% recycled materials
- Fuego Down Jacket - 800-fill responsibly-sourced down with recycled shell
- Teca Fleece - Made from 100% repurposed polyester fleece
Prana: Organic and Fair Trade Since 1992
What Makes Them Sustainable:
- Organic cotton and hemp fabrics
- Recycled polyester and nylon
- Fair Trade Certified manufacturing
- Responsible down standard
- Bluesign approved materials
Why We Love Them: Prana has been a pioneer in sustainable apparel for over 30 years. Their comfortable, versatile clothing works equally well on the yoga mat, the trail, or around town. Fair Trade certification ensures fair wages and safe working conditions for the people who make their products.
Top Picks:
- Organic cotton tees and crews
- Recycled polyester fleece jackets
- Hemp-blend pants and joggers
Smartwool: Responsible Merino Wool
What Makes Them Sustainable:
- Natural, renewable, biodegradable merino wool
- ZQ-certified farms prioritizing animal welfare
- Responsible sourcing practices
- Temperature-regulating, odor-resistant fiber (wear more, wash less)
- Durable products that last for years
Why We Love Them: Merino wool is nature's performance fiber. Smartwool works with certified farms that prioritize sheep welfare, land health, and social responsibility. Their products naturally regulate temperature, resist odor, and last for years with proper care—reducing the need to buy replacements.
Top Picks:
- Merino base layers for year-round comfort
- Performance hiking and running socks
- Cozy beanies and accessories
Topo Designs: Built to Last
What Makes Them Sustainable:
- Recycled nylon and polyester fabrics
- Durable construction with lifetime guarantee
- Repair services to extend product life
- Timeless designs that don't go out of style
- Made to reduce waste through longevity
Why We Love Them: Topo Designs' philosophy is simple: make gear so durable it lasts a lifetime. Their bags and packs use recycled materials and bombproof construction. When gear lasts longer, you buy less—the ultimate form of sustainability.
Top Picks:
- Rover Pack - Classic backpack with recycled materials
- Taco Bag - Versatile shoulder bag for everyday carry
- Light Pack - Minimalist daypack built to last
Sustainable Footwear: The Next Frontier
Many of our running and hiking shoes now incorporate recycled materials too. Brands like New Balance, ASICS, and Saucony are increasingly using:
- Recycled polyester in uppers
- Recycled rubber in outsoles
- Plant-based and bio-based materials
- Reduced packaging waste
While not all footwear brands have reached the sustainability standards of Cotopaxi or Prana, the industry is making progress. We're committed to carrying brands that are moving in the right direction.
How to Make Sustainable Choices
1. Choose Quality Over Quantity
Invest in durable gear that lasts. A $200 jacket that lasts 10 years is more sustainable (and economical) than a $50 jacket you replace every year.
2. Care for Your Gear
Proper maintenance extends product life. Wash merino wool gently, treat DWR finishes, repair small tears, and store gear properly.
3. Support Responsible Brands
Vote with your dollars. Companies like Cotopaxi, Prana, Smartwool, and Topo Designs prove that sustainable practices and high performance can coexist.
4. Buy What You'll Actually Use
The most sustainable purchase is the one you don't make. Before buying, ask: Will I use this regularly? Do I already own something similar?
5. Repair Before Replacing
Many brands offer repair services. Topo Designs has a lifetime guarantee, and most outdoor brands will repair gear for a reasonable fee.
Our Lake Michigan Commitment
Living and working near Lake Michigan reminds us daily why sustainability matters. The trails we run, the waters we paddle, the peaks we climb—these places are worth protecting. By choosing sustainable gear, we're all contributing to preserving the outdoor spaces we love.
Explore our full Sustainable Gear collection and discover how you can make a difference with every purchase.
Have questions about sustainable gear? Reach out to our team—we're here to help you make informed choices.
