ISPO: Nature under watch

Here, sustainability is no longer a trend nor an axis of differentiation. It is a general mantra of which not a brand excludes itself.

We see almost total disappearance of non-recycled polyester, growth of recycled polyamides and elasthanne, biosourced fibers and synthetic materials, search for biodagradability, water-less dyeing technologies (SpinDye). Wool and especially merino - including recycled merino (Südwolle) are gaining momentum for underwear but is also found in bondings, fillings and linings. Orthovox, specialist of high mountain and mountaineering works with the Swisswool label for the entire collection. 

The respect of the animal is an unavoidable cause promoted by the brands with great support of commitments and labels. According to them, wool is absolutely museling-free, livestock and transport are subject to increased surveillance, goose or duck down must be collected without animal suffering as claimed by Northface « Responsible down Standard ».

Chemistry is also at the heart of the concerns, PFC-free becomes the norm, and the objective is to replace each material by its respectful eco-equivalent. Bio-sourced, recycled materials and chemistry are in the scope for membranes and foams. Using hemp in composite materials of skis, skates and snowboards is no longer so surprising.