Celebrate Mother Earth With Local and Sustainable Outdoor Gear
What better way to celebrate Earth Day, April 22, than spending some time in nature? And what better way to enjoy the day than with gear made from sustainable or recycled materials that is also stylish, functional and ideal for battling spring’s elements
By Hilary Meyerson April 12, 2019
This article originally appeared in the April 2019 issue of Seattle magazine.
This article appears in print in the April 2019 issue. Click here to subscribe.
1. Barkley Sound Box Duffle
These Madison Valley-made duffel bags ($150) give new life to old sails. Each is unique (we love the ones that incorporate the sail numbers) and durable, too—if they’ve survived Pacific Northwest winds at sea, they can handle an overnighter. Available at barkleysoundbags.com
2. Patagonia 28L Arbor Grande Pack
Even if it weren’t made from recycled polyester, this retro-style backpack ($129) is a green choice, thanks to Patagonia’s $10 million gift (savings from the recent tax cut) to environmental nonprofits. Available at Patagonia, downtown, 2100 First Ave.; 206.622.9700
3. Nube9 Leggings and Crop Top
Local company Nube9 makes comfortable, breathable athletic wear from recycled plastic bottles—like these leggings ($85) and crop top ($45). We like the Lonely Whale pattern, part of a collaboration with the Lonely Whale Foundation, a nonprofit devoted to ocean health. Available at nube9.com
4. Costa Victoria Sunglasses
These stylish sunglasses ($219) from Florida-based Costa’s Untangled Collection are made from 100 percent recycled fishing nets. Available at West Marine Products, Interbay, 1827 15th Ave. W, Suite A22; 206.926.0356
5. BioLite Rechargeable Headlamp
This headlamp ($49.95) bypasses toxic alkaline batteries entirely and charges via USB, while still being comfortably lightweight and offering multiple light settings. Available at bioliteenergy.com and at REI, multiple locations, including South Lake Union, 222 Yale Ave. N; 206.223.1944
6. Prana Transverse Long-sleeve Crew
This shirt ($55) by Prana is made from a blend of recycled polyester, hemp and textured jersey that is soft to the touch and wicks away moisture like a champ. Available at Evo Seattle, Fremont, 3500 Stone Way N; 206.973.4470; evo.com
7. GoLite ReGreen Windshell
An estimated 20 recycled plastic soda bottles went into making this lightweight (only 1.6 ounces) zip jacket ($100) from local outfitter GoLite. Available at Ascent Outdoors, Ballard, 5209 Ballard Ave. NW; 206.545.8810
8. Merrell Gridway Collection
Reliable outdoor brand Merrell’s new shoe line is the Gridway Collection, featuring three styles ($140 as shown) made from mostly recycled materials, from the laces to the footbeds. Available at REI, multiple locations, including South Lake Union, 222 Yale Ave. N; 206.223.1944
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