Patagonia Unveils Its Warmest Parka Yet, Crafted From Recycled Materials

In Costa Rica, a pressing plastic waste issue has led to innovative solutions. Approximately a fifth of the nation’s daily four-ton plastic waste ends up in rivers and on beaches. Enter Bionic, a Costa Rican company that collects and converts this discarded plastic into high-performance Gore-Tex fabrics, promoting a balance between design and sustainability.

Patagonia has recently launched the Stormshadow Parka, a unique offering. Half of the garment’s fibers are sourced from ocean-bound plastic, resulting in an eco-conscious item of clothing that will keep you incredibly warm through the coming winter months, as it is also the brand’s warmest parka to date.

This venture aims to create high-tech, eco-friendly fabrics by collaborating with Gore-Tex and harnessing recycled plastic to overcome degrading factors like dirt, rain, and salt.

As for the coat itself, it comes in navy blue, black, and green. On top of that, it is also PFC-free and has undergone Durable Water Repellant (DWR) treatment, meaning that it does not contain long-lasting fluorinated chemicals or what is also known as “forever chemicals.”

This partnership, more than a product endeavor, is a significant step toward promoting sustainability in fashion.  And if you fancy doing your part for the environment while keeping warm this winter, you can find the Stormshadow parka online for US$899.

[via Fast Company and The Manual, images via Patagonia]