Ultra-Recycled Winter Clothing

Solving global warming takes more than just trees

Though the Patagonia 'Re\Collection' line of winter gear isn't made entirely from recycled materials, it uses as much as possible while maintaining the ruggedness that is essential for outdoor clothing. 100 percent of the down, wool, and polyester in the Re\Collection jackets, vests, and pants are recycled, while 50 to 80 percent of the material in the labels, zippers, and buttons are recycled.

The only thing holding Patagonia back from using 100 percent recycled material for the entirety of the Re\Collection line is utility. Used materials are weaker than new ones, and that poses a problem for certain areas of clothing. While used down in a jacket is virtually identical to new down, used threads would fray and break too easily. Nonetheless, Patagonia's choice to recycle as much as possible shows the company's commitment to its environmental philosophy.