When you’re outside, the fabrics you wear can make the difference between a great day and a miserable one. But at Wild Rock, we believe they should also make a difference in how we impact the planet.

Here’s a look at how some of our favourite brands are innovating with sustainability in mind — from sourcing to chemical use to product longevity.

Fjällräven G-1000 Eco

Tried and trusted since 1968, G-1000 is the cornerstone of Fjällräven gear. It’s a densely woven fabric made from a mix of 65% polyester and 35% cotton, designed to be strong, weather-resistant, and breathable. Add a layer of Greenland Wax, and it becomes wind- and water-resistant on demand.

Today’s G-1000 Eco versions are made using recycled polyester and organic cotton, combining long-lasting performance with more responsible materials. The result is a fabric that resists UV rays, sheds light rain, and is tightly woven enough to help reduce bug penetration (legally we can’t say it’s mosquito-proof in Canada… but they do in Sweden!) — and is still tough enough to take on season after season.

Bonus: You can re-wax it yourself to extend its lifespan and dial in protection for the conditions you’re heading into.

Patagonia: Preferred Materials and Purpose-Driven Innovation

Patagonia has spent decades rethinking materials from the inside out — and their approach is comprehensive.

• Recycled polyester makes up over 92% of their polyester fabrics in the Spring 2024 collection, keeping plastic waste out of landfills and reducing reliance on virgin petroleum.
• Their entire virgin cotton program has shifted to organic or transitional (“Cotton in Conversion”) practices, and they’re scaling up Regenerative Organic Certified® cotton to improve soil health and farmer livelihoods.
• Their recycled down is reclaimed from used items like cushions and bedding — avoiding waste and creating high-performance insulation without using new animal materials.
• Nearly all products are made in Fair Trade Certified™ factories, supporting more than 85,000 workers with additional benefits.
• Patagonia has fully removed intentionally added PFAS from all membranes and DWR finishes, and is rapidly eliminating virgin polyester across their line by 2025.

Their goal? Preferred materials only. No greenwashing. Just proven, third-party certified improvements across the board.

NEMO OSMO™ Tent Fabric

Tent fabric isn’t often top of mind — but it should be. It’s your last line of defence against the elements, and it plays a major role in weight, durability, and comfort.

NEMO’s OSMO™ fabric changes the game. It’s a recycled poly-nylon composite that offers:

• 4x longer-lasting water repellency
• 3x less stretch when wet
• Industry-leading tear strength, even in ultralight applications

It’s also completely PFAS- and flame-retardant-free, solution dyed to reduce water and energy use, and bluesign® approved in most applications. According to the Higg Materials Sustainability Index, OSMO fabrics show a >50% reduction in chemical impact and 21–24% lower fossil fuel use compared to conventional options.

That means less sagging in wet weather, longer product life, and a better experience at camp — all without compromise.

LOWA

LOWA boots are known for precision fit and all-day comfort. What you might not know is that LOWA footwear is 100% made in Europe, where tighter regulations and shorter transport routes help reduce emissions and ensure fair labour practices.

When it comes to materials:

• LOWA works only with European tanneries committed to environmentally responsible and traceable practices
• The majority of their leather is sourced from Germany, Croatia, Italy, and Spain, with strict oversight on chemical safety
• All leather suppliers align with LOWA’s values around ecological and social responsibility

While leather carries a complex sustainability story, LOWA’s focus on quality over quantity and local sourcing helps reduce waste and emissions — and keeps your boots on the trail longer.

Single vs. Mixed Fabrics

Not all fabric blends are created equal — especially when it comes to recyclability. Many outdoor products use mixed-fibre materials (like cotton/poly blends) to balance comfort and performance, but this can make end-of-life recycling more difficult.

That’s why some brands (like Patagonia) are moving toward preferred materials and traceable sourcing, and why long-term durability still matters most. The better your gear holds up, the longer it stays out of landfill — and the smaller your footprint becomes.

PFAS-Free: Moving Beyond “Forever Chemicals”

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have long been used in outdoor gear for their ability to repel water, oil, and stains — but these “forever chemicals” don’t break down in nature and have been linked to serious health concerns.

Now, Canadian regulations are catching up. The federal government is proposing a ban on the manufacture, use, and sale of PFAS in consumer products — including apparel and outdoor gear — aligning with global efforts to eliminate them from supply chains.

Fortunately, several of our favourite brands are already ahead of the curve. Patagonia has removed intentionally added PFAS from all their waterproof finishes and is working toward 100% PFAS-free gear by 2025. Fjällräven made the switch in 2015, using natural alternatives like Greenland Wax instead of chemical DWR treatments. NEMO’s OSMO™ tent fabric is also fully PFAS-free, without compromising water repellency or durability.

Making the switch may mean a little more care — but these next-gen materials are built to perform, and built for a healthier planet.

Our Takeaway: Look Deeper, Choose Better

There’s no perfect material. Every fibre, finish, and process has an impact. But when brands make thoughtful choices — and back them with science, certification, and transparency — it becomes easier to choose gear you can feel good about.

At Wild Rock, we carry the brands that care about performance and the planet. Whether it’s a tent, a trail pant, or your next down jacket, we’ll help you find what fits your adventure — and your values.