Hitting the slopes? Stay green with recycled gear that keeps you warm and fashionable.
Brrr! The weather can be quite chilly at the top of the mountain, and if you plan on riding the lifts from dawn until dusk, you have to make sure you’re well insulated and using the best gear.
The snow sport industry is full of people who care about keeping the last few wild, outdoor spaces as pristine as possible, so it should come as no surprise that many designers have been working hard to come up with more eco-friendly gear for making the most of every snowfall.
Forum Escape Snowboard Boot
This skate-inspired boot is perfect for trying new tricks in the park. Available in both men’s and women’s styles, what makes this comfortable boot really special is the recycled rubber vulcanized sole. Boarders say that this uniquely crafted sole provides the performance of a skate shoe with the sticky rubber traction that makes it easy to stay on your board.
Burton Eco Nico Snowboard
Designed by pro rider Nicholas Muller, this board provides a great all-mountain ride without taking a toll on the environment during the manufacturing process. The wood core of this board is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, and the top sheet is lacquer-free. But that’s not all that makes this board eco-friendly. The steel edges are 90% recycled, the sidewalls are 100% recycled and the base is 50% recycled. Inspired by this board, Burton has pledged to use at least 50% eco-friendly content in all of its upcoming boards.
Patagonia Powder Bowl Snow Pants
Without quality snow pants, skiing and snowboarding would be a cold and soggy affair. Stay warm and dry with these heavy-duty winter pants from Patagonia. Available in both men’s and women’s styles, the Powder Bowl pants sport a recycled polyester shell backed by a waterproof breathable H2No layer. When it’s time to trade up for a new pair, you can help by sending them back to Patagonia to be recycled through the Common Threads Recycling Program.