Recycled Polyester – Designed for Purpose, Chosen with Care

Recycled polyester isn’t just a material choice for us — it’s a commitment to building gear that performs, lasts, and respects the planet.

Sustainability is about making smart, conscious choices — not just choosing what sounds good. That’s why recycled polyester, or rPET, plays a key role in many of our garments. It’s made from post-consumer plastic (usually PET bottles), melted down and spun into new fibers. Compared to virgin polyester, recycled polyester uses up to 59% less energy, and significantly reduces carbon emissions and water usage. It's a step in the right direction — but it’s not the final answer.

When and Why We Use Recycled Polyester

Recycled polyester is lightweight, insulating, fast-drying and moisture-resistant. These properties make it ideal for mid-layers, linings and insulation — pieces that need to be warm without being bulky, and that perform well during active use in cold or changing conditions.

We also choose rPET in styles where we can reduce virgin materials without compromising function. Every fiber is evaluated, tested, and certified — often through standards like GRS, Bluesign®, or Oeko-Tex® — before it becomes part of an Elevenate garment. Our focus is always on long-term performance, not short-term trends.

As with all synthetics, recycled polyester can shed microplastics during wear and washing. This is a well-known issue in the textile world, and while there’s no perfect fix yet, there are ways to reduce impact. We recommend using microfiber-catching laundry bags and washing only when needed — both of which help extend the garment's life while protecting waterways.

When Other Materials Make More Sense

Recycled polyester isn’t always the best option — and that’s okay. No single material is right for every situation. What matters is choosing based on performance, comfort, and longevity.

For base layers, we often turn to merino wool. It’s naturally breathable, regulates body temperature, and resists odor — making it ideal next to the skin, especially during high-output activities like ski touring or hiking.

In outerwear and high-abrasion zones, we typically use nylon or shell fabrics with technical membranes. These offer superior tear resistance and durability, especially in tough mountain environments. While some of our nylons are recycled, the priority here is gear that lasts through years of wear.

Even organic cotton has a role — especially in lifestyle pieces where softness and natural feel are important. We choose it when performance isn’t the top priority, but comfort and low-impact materials still matter.

Smart Material Use = Real Sustainability

Sustainability means choosing the right material for the right purpose, garment by garment. That’s why we use recycled polyester where it performs best, and combine it with other fibers for long-term performance and minimal impact. It’s not about checking boxes, but about building gear that lasts, functions, and respects the planet.

Learn More About Our Materials

Curious about the materials behind our products? See how recycled polyester and other fibers come together in garments that perform, endure, and tread lightly.

Shop our men’s and women’s collections to find technical outdoor clothing designed for movement, built to last, and made with care.