Waterproof Fabric Overhaul: Columbia redesigns its initial water-resistant material utilizing recycled coffee waste
Going Green in the Great Outdoors: Columbia Sportswear's Sustainable Waterproof Fabric
For over eight decades, Columbia Sportswear has been perfecting outdoor gear in the rain-soaked Pacific Northwest. In 1991, the brand introduced its alternative to Gore-Tex and this spring, they've taken it a step further with a more eco-friendly approach.
Known for their innovative technologies, Columbia has given us Omni-Heat that's journeyed to the moon not once, but twice, and Omni-Max inspired by a pine cone, making for ridiculously comfortable shoes. But it's their original multi-layer waterproof fabric, Omni-Tech, that's received a much-needed upgrade.
Originally designed to compete with Gore-Tex, Omni-Tech is designed to keep moisture out while letting sweat escape. However, like most breathable waterproof membranes, it contained PFAS, potentially harmful chemicals that can contaminate the environment. That's where the new and improved, Omni-Tech Eco, comes in.
Haskell Beckham, VP of Innovation at Columbia, tells us Omni-Tech Eco is made with 100% recycled fabric, PFAS-free DWR, and a membrane containing at least 25% plant-based materials, like recycled coffee grounds, much like British brand Sundried.
The sustainability-focused fabric is already available in the Men's Altbound Jacket and Men's Boulder Falls Jacket. While any waterproof fabric will eventually wet out in extreme conditions, for more technical outdoor pursuits, you might want to consider Outdry Extreme.
But fear not, fashion-conscious adventurers! Columbia's latest spring update includes the Matte Outdry Extreme, a less shiny, just as waterproof alternative, reportedly created by smaller particles that reflect light diffusely, creating a "Lotus Leaf Effect". This new fabric is available in the Whistler Peak Shell and Reign No Shine Rain Jacket.
- Get ready for your next adventure: subscribe to our newsletter for the latest gear guides, tips, and inspiration
- Stay dry and stylish: our selection of the best waterproof jackets for all your outdoor needs
- No more leaks: check out our top picks for rain pants for confidence in the wild
Did you know?
- Omni-Tech Eco's shell fabric is made from 100% recycled polyester.
- The membrane includes at least 25% plant-based materials.
- The fabric eliminates PFAS and is designed with both recycled materials and waterproof, breathable construction.
- Columbia's new Omni-Tech Eco fabric, designed with 100% recycled fabric, PFAS-free DWR, and a membrane containing at least 25% plant-based materials, marks a significant step towards sustainable living in the fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden segments.
- In the sustainable-living sphere, Columbia's Omni-Tech Eco, which already features in the Men's Altbound Jacket and Men's Boulder Falls Jacket, promises to cater to the style-conscious adventurer with its Matte Outdry Extreme variant, providing a less shiny, just as waterproof alternative.
- As part of their latest spring update, the Whistler Peak Shell and Reign No Shine Rain Jacket are now available in the Matte Outdry Extreme fabric, ensuring a stylish and practical solution for smart-home-devices enthusiasts who enjoy outdoor activities while maintaining a focus on technology and shopping for eco-friendly products.
- Whether you're a nature lover, a fashion-conscious adventurer, or an eco-conscious consumer, stay informed with our newsletter for the latest sustainable-living guides, tips, and inspiration.
