Not only is going Green good for the environment, but it’s also becoming more popular too. This year a lot of new gear is starting to appear with more Earth-friendly compositions - soda bottles, bamboo and hemp are just to name a few. Here are a few of the newest outdoor items and a ‘green’ backpack to stuff it all into.
From the Ground Up
Big Agnes has developed an air-core sleeping mat made out of 100% recycled materials, known as the ‘Diversion.’ The shell is comprised of 100% recycled ripstop polyester fabric and Climashield HL Green 100% recycled insulation. It even boasts a recycled aluminum valve, not to mention it’s still lightweight and packs down to a very compact size.
Perhaps you’d like a sleeping bag to pair with that mat? Big Agnes also has a -15 degree bag, with bottom insulation made of synthetic fibers from charcoal (yes charcoal) of burnt bamboo. Down fill makes up the insulation in the top of the Battle Mountain bag.
Who else has gone green? LaFuma has also been busy designing their line of eco-friendly gear. Their Eco Bag XL is filled with 100% recycled polyester and has an outer envelope and lining both made of 55% hemp and 45% cotton. The bag features a wraparound hood, a self-adjusting two-zip opening with YKK double slider, an inside pocket, and can be zipped up with a second Eco Bag. This bag is 4 lbs 10 ounces, with a 45 degree rating.
Keeping Dry
Patagonia has developed a new jacket for Spring showers, called the Eco Rain Shell Jacket. The new 2-layer waterproof/breathable Eco Rain Shell uses recycled polyester for both its outer fabric and mesh liner. Don’t forget the H2No waterproof breathable barrier with Deluge durable water repellent finish. It’s lining? 100% recycled polyester mesh.
Stay Hydrated
Forget about carrying around disposable plastic water bottles. CamelBak has stepped up with a reusable water bottle that is BPA-Free. A clear alternative to the traditional polycarbonate bottle.
How can you carry all this new ‘Green’ gear and still stay green?
Lafuma’s first ‘green’ backpack is the Eco-40, made of 65% hemp and 35% recycled polyester. It’s designed with the Ventilight backsystem, a hydration pocket, double compartment with access from below, metallic buckles, and several pockets for your camera and other small items.
