Choosing the Best Eco-Friendly Outdoor Products

When we head outdoors, we want to enjoy nature without leaving any negative mark behind, utilizing Leave No Trace principles. Choosing sustainable outdoor solutions helps us protect the environment while still having fun. It’s about making smart choices that support the planet and encourages others to do the same. Let’s explore how we can pick the best gear and products that align with this goal.

Why Sustainable Outdoor Solutions Matter

Sustainability in outdoor gear means using materials and methods that reduce and/or minimize harm to the environment. It’s about durability, recyclability, and minimizing waste. When we choose sustainable outdoor solutions, we help preserve the campsites, trails, forests, and waterways we love.

For example, instead of buying single-use plastic water bottles, like Arrowhead or Dasani, we can switch to reusable bottles made from stainless steel or recycled materials. These last longer, keeping plastic and non-perishable materials out of landfills and oceans. Similarly, choosing clothing made from organic cotton or recycled polyester reduces the demand for new resources. Examples of this can be seen in India, where overproduction of clothing has created a vast environmental impact. Click here for more information.

Sustainable outdoor solutions encourage companies to innovate and think outside the box. Brands that focus on eco-friendly practices often support trail cleanups and conservation projects. This creates a positive cycle where our purchases help protect the places we explore and love.

How to Identify Sustainable Outdoor Solutions

Finding truly sustainable products can be tricky. Here are some tips to help us spot the best options:

• Look for certifications: Labels like Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Bluesign, or Fair Trade indicate responsible and eco-friendly production.

• Check the materials: Natural fibers like organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo are better than synthetic ones. Recycled materials are also a great choice.

• Consider durability: Products that last longer will impact the environment less. For example if you have a stainless-steel water bottle, that will often last a long time before needing a new one.

• Support brands with a mission: Companies that actively work on environmental projects or use recycled waste in their products show real commitment.

  
  

One great example of this is our eco-friendly jewelry that are made from recycled trash collected from trails and waterways. This not only cleans the trash from nature but also turns it into something useful. Currently only sold locally.

Essential Sustainable Outdoor Gear to Consider

When gearing up, some items make a bigger impact than others. Here’s a list of essentials where sustainable choices really count:

1. Backpacks and Bags

   Look for bags made from recycled nylon or polyester. These materials reduce plastic waste and often come with durable construction. A good backpack can easily last 20-30 years.

   
   

2. Clothing

   Choose layers made from organic cotton, recycled fleece, or merino wool. Avoid fast fashion brands that produce cheaply and wastefully. Research before you purchase to best avoid this.

   
   

3. Footwear

   Some brands now offer shoes with recycled soles and eco-friendly dyes. Durable shoes also mean fewer replacements.

   
   

4. Water Bottles and Hydration Packs

   Stainless steel or BPA-free (Bisphenol A) reusable bottles are best. Hydration packs made from recycled materials add convenience without waste.

   
   

5. Camping Gear

   Tents, sleeping bags, and mats made with sustainable fabrics and insulation help reduce environmental impact.

   
   

By focusing on these key items, we can make a big difference in reducing our outdoor footprint. The main downside to most of this are the cost of buying these products. We aim to make this cheaper for everyone once we are able to.

Tips for Maintaining and Extending the Life of Outdoor Gear

Buying sustainable gear is just the first step. Taking care of it properly means it lasts longer and reduces waste. Here are some simple tips:

• Clean gear according to instructions: Use eco-friendly detergents and avoid harsh chemicals.

• Store items properly: Keep gear dry and away from direct sunlight to prevent damage.

• Repair instead of replace: Patch holes, fix zippers, and replace worn parts when possible. Don't just buy new, keep upgrading your old great items.

• Donate or recycle old gear: Many outdoor stores accept used gear for resale or recycling. If you're really itching to buy new items, recycle your old gear. Some brands that accept recycled gear are Patagonia, REI, Play-It-Again Sports, or locally at the City of Fort Collins Recycling Center.

  
  

By extending the life of our gear, we reduce the need for new products and help keep waste out of landfills.

Supporting Brands That Give Back

One of the best ways to promote sustainability is by supporting companies that actively restore natural spaces. Some brands, like our own, take trash from trails, roads, and waterways and transform it into new products. This approach not only cleans the environment but also inspires others to join the mission.

When we buy from these brands, we contribute to a cleaner planet. We also encourage more companies to adopt similar practices. It’s a win-win for us, the environment, and the world.

If you want to support this mission, check out Climbers Haul. Where we turn waste into gear and products, helping restore nature one step at a time.

Making Sustainable Choices Every Time We Head Outside

Choosing sustainable outdoor solutions is a journey. It’s about making better decisions with every purchase and every adventure. By focusing on quality, durability, and environmental impact, we can enjoy the outdoors while protecting it.

Let’s commit to buying less but better. Let’s support brands that care about the planet. And let’s take care of our gear so it lasts for many adventures to come.

Together, we can make a difference and keep our natural spaces beautiful for generations ahead.

Remember, just because it is eco-friendly doesn't necessarily mean it is wallet-friendly. As you're viewing these sites, make sure you don't break your bank either.

Here are some great brands that we recommend looking into besides our own: Who Gives a Crap - Eco-Friendly Toilet Paper

Nada - Aluminum Toothbrushes

Bite - Chewable Toothpaste Tablets