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Tom's Guide
03-08-2025
- Lifestyle
- Tom's Guide
REI has the best weekend deals under $50 — here's what I'd shop from Patagonia, LifeStraw and more
Did you know that REI has an "Under $50" section? That's right — the outdoor retailer is full of surprises this summer! I've been scouring the hidden section and can confirm that it's packed to the brim with affordable deals on brands we love — Arc'teryx, LifeStraw and Patagonia to name a few favorites. Whether you're heading to the beach, hiking the trails or sleeping under the stars, you're gonna want to browse these unbeatable REI deals. We're talking discounts on everything from apparel and accessories to water bottles and camping essentials. To make things simpler, I've compiled all of my favorite outdoor deals below — and they all happen to be under $50. Keep scrolling to check out these affordable REI deals before they disappear! This is the perfect addition to your camp kitchen! The 4-piece set include 1 bowl/container, 1 lid/plate, 1 ECO utility spork and a reusable tether, making it ideal when you're enjoying a meal in the great outdoors. Stance socks are described as really comfy by users online, and these beautiful ones are no different. They're reinforced in the heels and the toes to prevent rubbing, and are made from combed cotton so they're uber soft. Keep key essentials close at hand with the REI Co-op Trail 2 Waist Pack. It features two liters of storage with one main zippered compartment, a smaller front zippered compartment and a secret stash pocket around the back. Constructed of ripstop nylon, the exterior is treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) to ensure all your valuables stay dry. Quality headlamps aren't just for camping, they also make a great addition to any emergency kit. You can also use it for chores around the house where extra illumination is warranted. Best of all, this one is rechargeable, so you don't need a zillion packs of batteries to power it. The HydroFlask 32 oz size with a straw is on sale for $11 right now, at just $23. It's discounted in dusky pink (pictured) and gray, but I love this pink shade. It's got a secure lid, so you don't need to worry about it spilling when you're out and about. Need a go-to tee for your summer hikes? This Columbia T-shirt not only shields you from the sun, but it also wicks away sweat and offers some stretch for easy mobility. It's available in 4 different colors and patterns. There's three colors sporting this discount, but I'm a personal fan of this stylish grey (called Asphalt Heather on the site) for its timeless look. With microventilated fabric, this tee is perfect for running, workouts and hitting the trails. If you want to wear the Patagonia logo proudly, this is the hat for you. This close-fitting, low-crown trucker hat has an organic cotton front, a recycled polyester mesh back and an adjustable snap closure. Looking for a leakproof water bottle that will actually filter your water? For just $29, this LifeStraw water bottle will improve water taste by protecting against bacteria, parasites, microplastics, chlorine, organic chemical matter, sand and cloudiness. This long-sleeve running tee is a popular pick from REI and while 9 colors are still full price, this teal fit is sporting a 31% discount. Using SwiftTex fabric to keep you cool, dry and unencumbered, it's an excellent pick for long runs especially on those cooler nights. Being sunburnt is never cool, but you know what is? This North Face brimmer hat. It features a sweat-wicking interior, an adjustable shock cord chin strap and UPF 40 sun protection. Need a new hat for the trails? The Arc'teryx Bird Word trucker hat is made with breathable mesh panels and a soft, quick-drying headband that will keep your head feeling airy and dry. It will get the job done on the toughest of routes. The name of these shorts says it all! The Wander Shorts allow you to stay cool, comfortable and dry while exploring thanks to their sweat-wicking and water-repellent properties. They're also built with added stretch and tons of performance features. If you're spending a night under the stars, this blanket is exactly what you need. You can lay it down on your campsite, bring it along for picnics and even use it a source of warmth while you sleep. It's also water-repellant so you'll stay nice and dry in the great outdoors. It's like Patagonia knows the exact features you want from a hip pack and they've put it into this one. Stuffable into its own pocket when you want to store it away, it features an adjustable strap and double pockets for bigger and smaller valuables. If you're after a waist fit or slung over the body, this will do both — all while sporting a trendy colorway. Need a new swimsuit? This one-piece is a no-brainer. Whether you're heading in the lake, ocean or pool, you'll love wearing this quick-drying, chlorine resistant suit that features UPF 50+ protection. It's also fully lined and has an adjustable back slider. Whether you're running on the track or running errands, The North Face Sunriser Shorts will keep you comfy. They feature a secure-zip pocket on the center-back of the waistband, as well as moisture-managing technology to keep you dry. This versatile sweatshirt is ready for anything — pair it with shorts and head to the gym, throw on some joggers and wear it on the trails or even sport it with a pair of jeans around town. It's super comfortable and works as a great top layer on a cool day. For a pop of personality, these Tevas are a standout style for summer. Quick-dry webbing is paired with molded EVA midsoles for a comfortable fit on land and water. Better yet, they're 24% off right now. These best-selling shorts are designed to give you just enough coverage without weighing you down. The adjustable fit has an infinity drawstring for added security, a soft, stretch liner that won't ride up or bunch and three hidden pockets to hold your valuables. In short, they're the perfect companion for distraction-free jogs. Whether you're breaking a sweat at the gym or on the trails, this light and airy t-shirt will be your best friend. It has an antimicrobial treatment to resist odor and keep you smelling fresh. Not sure if you want to wear pants or shorts on your next hike? No problem! These versatile pants offer style, comfort — and removable legs. You can take them from hiking pants to shorts in just second thanks removable zip off legs. They're also quick drying and stretchy. Get ready to run speed, freedom and performance when wearing these shorts. From the gym to the trails, you can feel confident that the shorts will keep up. They feature abrasion-resistant fabric and have excellent stretch for comfort.
Tom's Guide
22-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Tom's Guide
REI has an under $50 section filled with hidden deals — shop the best sales from LifeStraw, Patagonia and more
Outdoor enthusiasts, listen up! I'm about to let you in on a little secret. I just discovered that REI has an "Under $50" section that's packed to the brim with affordable deals on brands we love — Columbia, LifeStraw and Patagonia to name a few favorites. If you have any outdoor adventures on your horizon, you're going to want to browse these amazing REI deals on everything from apparel and accessories to water bottles and camping essentials. Interested in a little shortcut? I've compiled all of my favorite deals below — and they all happen to be under $50. Keep scrolling to check out my favorite affordable REI deals before they're gone! REI deals under $50 Stance Blended Quarter Socks (Women's): was $14 now $10 at REI Stance socks are described as really comfy by users online, and these beautiful ones are no different. They're reinforced in the heels and the toes to prevent rubbing, and are made from combed cotton so they're uber soft. UCO ECO 4-Piece Mess Kit: was $19 now $13 at REI This is the perfect addition to your camp kitchen! The 4-piece set include 1 bowl/container, 1 lid/plate, 1 ECO utility spork and a reusable tether, making it ideal when you're enjoying a meal in the great outdoors. REI Co-op Trail 2 Waist Pack: was $29 now $14 at REI Keep key essentials close at hand with the REI Co-op Trail 2 Waist Pack. It features two liters of storage with one main zippered compartment, a smaller front zippered compartment and a secret stash pocket around the back. Constructed of ripstop nylon, the exterior is treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) to ensure all your valuables stay dry. REI Co-op Active Pursuits Boxy Workout T-shirt (Unisex): was $44 now $21 at REI This is such a versatile t shirt. It's got a boxy fit, which is what I'm looking for when shopping for workout gear. I hate feeling restricted when I'm hiking or doing yoga. This unisex shirt is still available in most sizes, and even has UPF 50+ for sun protection! HydroFlask 32 oz Tumbler: was $34 now $23 at REI The HydroFlask 32 oz size with a straw is on sale for $11 right now, at just $23. It's discounted in dusky pink (pictured) and gray, but I love this pink shade. It's got a secure lid, so you don't need to worry about it spilling when you're out and about. REI Co-op LS Running Tee (Men's): was $44 now $30 at REI This long-sleeve running tee is a popular pick from REI and while 9 colors are still full price, this teal fit is sporting a 31% discount. Using SwiftTex fabric to keep you cool, dry and unencumbered, it's an excellent pick for long runs especially on those cooler nights. Arc'teryx Bird Word Trucker Hat: was $50 now $34 at REI Need a new hat for the trails? The Arc'teryx Bird Word trucker hat is made with breathable mesh panels and a soft, quick-drying headband that will keep your head feeling airy and dry. It will get the job done on the toughest of routes. Brooks Chaser 3" Running Shorts (Women's): was $60 now $43 at REI These best-selling shorts are designed to give you just enough coverage without weighing you down. The adjustable fit has an infinity drawstring for added security, a soft, stretch liner that won't ride up or bunch and three hidden pockets to hold your valuables. In short, they're the perfect companion for distraction-free jogs. Patagonia P-6 Logo Uprisal Hoody (Unisex): was $89 now $43 at REI This is such a classic versatile hoody, I can't quite believe it's been discounted so deeply. This is the kind of sweater that never goes out of style. It's only on sale in gray, but it's still available in every size except XS and XXL. This hoody is made from 30 plastic bottles, so you know you're wearing something that is benefitting the planet. Free Country Get Out There Convertible Pants (Women's): was $70 now $48 at REI Not sure if you want to wear pants or shorts on your next hike? No problem! These versatile pants offer style, comfort — and removable legs. You can take them from hiking pants to shorts in just second thanks removable zip off legs. They're also quick drying and stretchy.
Tom's Guide
24-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Tom's Guide
Huge REI early 4th of July sale live from $13 — here's 19 camping and apparel deals worth shopping now
Everyone knows that 4th of July sales mark the unofficial start of summer — which means it's time to embrace the season's endless possibilities! Whether you need some new camping equipment, fitness apparel or hiking essentials, REI's latest sale has tons of epic deals just for you. Brands like Garmin, North Face, Hoka and more are sporting major discounts of up to 50% off. The sale includes deals on everything you need to gear up for the great outdoors, including sleeping bags, camp kitchen accessories, footwear, apparel and more from some of REI's top brands. Below, I've rounded up my favorite deals in the REI sale. Keep scrolling to check them out. Plus, check out our favorite early Prime Day deals. This is the perfect addition to your camp kitchen! The 4-piece set include 1 bowl/container, 1 lid/plate, 1 ECO utility spork and a reusable tether, making it ideal when you're enjoying a meal in the great outdoors. Keep key essentials close at hand with the REI Co-op Trail 2 Waist Pack. It features two liters of storage with one main zippered compartment, a smaller front zippered compartment and a secret stash pocket around the back. Constructed of ripstop nylon, the exterior is treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) to ensure all your valuables stay dry. Quality headlamps aren't just for camping, they also make a great addition to any emergency kit. You can also use it for chores around the house where extra illumination is warranted. Best of all, this one is rechargeable, so you don't need a zillion packs of batteries to power it. Who knew sipping your favorite beverage could be so trendy? This colorful stainless steel tumbler is double-walled and vacuum-sealed, providing 40 ounces of beverage warming or chilling capacity. It also comes with a Press-In straw lid for easy sipping. Plus, the whole thing is dishwasher-safe. Klymit Ridgeline Camp Chair: was $89 now $59 @ REIChill out by the campfire in this lightweight and durable camp chair that features a high back, a padded headrest and a seat that cradles and supports your body. The chair easily folds down small for storage, making it the perfect travel chair. The Leatherman Wave is nothing short of legendary in the realm of multi-tools. This 18-in-1 stainless steel gadget is pocket-friendly and tough-built, backed by a 25-year warranty. I've been using one for all sorts of projects big and small for the last 15 years and it's still going strong. It's also not that often on sale. This pair of trekking poles will come in handy if you're hiking to your camping site. They have three adjustable sections, breathable mesh straps and grips that absorb sweat to keep your hands from slipping. No wants to sleep on rough ground, and with this sleeping mat, you won't have to. It comes in several sizes, the cheapest being the regular size that weighs 2 lbs. 2 oz. and measures 3.1-inches thick. It rolls up small, so it's easy to take with you. If you want a heavy-duty cooler that is still light enough to carry around, this YETI Roadie is a great deal. Despite its compact size, it has a capacity to hold up to 18 cans and wine bottles. Designed for easy carry, its slimline build can fit behind the driver's seat of a car, making it a great space-saver. The Garmin Instinct 2 solar is the world's longest-lasting smartwatch, able to run forever with enough sunlight. Boasting accurate onboard GPS tracking, lots of fitness training metrics and tools, a sporty design and even support for mobile payments, it's a truly versatile workout companion. Whether you're running on the track or running errands, The North Face Sunriser Shorts will keep you comfy. They feature a secure-zip pocket on the center-back of the waistband, as well as moisture-managing technology to keep you dry. Stay supported and comfortable all day long when wearing this strappy sports bra made of soft, moisture-wicking Spacedye fabric. It's great to wear during your next hike or workout since it contours to your body and dries fast. It also features a racerback design and a shelf bra. Not sure if you want to wear pants or shorts on your next hike? No problem! These versatile pants offer style, comfort — and removable legs. You can take them from hiking pants to shorts in just second thanks removable zip off legs. They're also quick drying and stretchy. This exercise top was inspired by running apparel, but then adapted to make it suitable for mountain-based high-intensity activities. It's breathable, maximizes airflow, and is designed to reduce chafing. If you're a runner, you need this ¼-zip for the colder months. Not only does it help regulate body temperature with its innovative insulating fabric, it also actively moves moisture away from the body. You can snag this deal in five different colors right now. If you have some hikes or excursions on your agenda, these pants will be your go to. Their breathable fabric was built for movement and their durable, air permeable and water repellent properties will keep you protected from the elements. Environmentally conscious, high-performing, and lightweight, this rain jacket is a total winner! The water-repellant jacket has a dry touch finish and stuffs into its own pocket, making it packable and easy to tote along on all your daily adventures. This is a running shoe that is both comfy and versatile. It's a shoe that you can wear on most runs and is especially a great option for beginner runners looking for a reliable everyday running trainer. It only launched this year so it's pretty awesome to see it discounted down to just $110! The Clifton is Hoka's most popular shoe line, and one of the most popular from any brand, and I rate it as one of the best shoes for new runners in particular thanks to the comfortable foam in its midsole. It's a generation old at this point, but still a very capable shoe.
Tom's Guide
10-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Tom's Guide
Massive REI sale live from $14 — here's 19 deals on apparel, outdoor gear and Father's Day gifts
Summer is almost here — and if you're gearing up for those outdoor adventures, REI is here to help. Whether you need some new camping equipment, fitness apparel or hiking essentials, REI's latest sale has tons of epic deals just for you. Brands like Garmin, North Face, Hoka and more are sporting major discounts of up to 50% off. Plus, with Father's Day this weekend, you can shop last-minute gifts that outdoorsy dads will love. Below, I've rounded up my favorite deals in the REI sale. Keep scrolling to check them out. Keep key essentials close at hand with the REI Co-op Trail 2 Waist Pack. It features two liters of storage with one main zippered compartment, a smaller front zippered compartment and a secret stash pocket around the back. Constructed of ripstop nylon, the exterior is treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) to ensure all your valuables stay dry. Who knew sipping your favorite beverage could be so trendy? This colorful stainless steel tumbler is double-walled and vacuum-sealed, providing 40 ounces of beverage warming or chilling capacity. It also comes with a Press-In straw lid for easy sipping. Plus, the whole thing is dishwasher-safe. The Leatherman Wave is nothing short of legendary in the realm of multi-tools. This 18-in-1 stainless steel gadget is pocket-friendly and tough-built, backed by a 25-year warranty. I've been using one for all sorts of projects big and small for the last 15 years and it's still going strong. It's also not that often on sale. This pair of trekking poles will come in handy if you're hiking to your camping site. They have three adjustable sections, breathable mesh straps and grips that absorb sweat to keep your hands from slipping. No wants to sleep on rough ground, and with this sleeping mat, you won't have to. It comes in several sizes, the cheapest being the regular size that weighs 2 lbs. 2 oz. and measures 3.1-inches thick. It rolls up small, so it's easy to take with you. This sporty mid-range watch is a great training companion with a bright AMOLED display, onboard GPS, advanced heart health monitoring, sleep tracking and tons of tools for training. It also has a SpO2 sensor, 11-day battery life and water resistance up to 50 meters. Check out our Garmin Forerunner 165 hands-on review for the full lowdown. Save 25% on the Osprey Aether Plus 60, which is perfect for gear-intensive excursions in just about any weather condition. The customizable Fit-on-the-Fly hipbelt and shoulder straps allow for balanced weight distribution when you're on the move, and the floating top lid can be detached and used as a lighter daypack. You get a plethora of both zippered and stretchy pockets to stow all your gear, along with an internal hydration reservoir sleeve, dual ice axe loops, and a Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment. Need an easy-wearing top you can throw on any day of the week and look stylish? This Patagonia T-shirt is perfect for mixing and matching with shorts or jeans. It's made with super soft fabric and a colorful graphic. Stay supported and comfortable all day long when wearing this strappy sports bra made of soft, moisture-wicking Spacedye fabric. It's great to wear during your next hike or workout since it contours to your body and dries fast. It also features a racerback design and a shelf bra. Not sure if you want to wear pants or shorts on your next hike? No problem! These versatile pants offer style, comfort — and removable legs. You can take them from hiking pants to shorts in just second thanks removable zip off legs. They're also quick drying and stretchy. If you're a runner, you need this ¼-zip for the colder months. Not only does it help regulate body temperature with its innovative insulating fabric, it also actively moves moisture away from the body. You can snag this deal in five different colors right now. These Adidas road-running shoes deliver a lightweight, responsive feel to keep you chasing your goals — whether you're training or just getting your miles in. They're breathable, provide enhanced stability and offer smooth transitions. This is a running shoe that is both comfy and versatile. It's a shoe that you can wear on most runs and is especially a great option for beginner runners looking for a reliable everyday running trainer. It only launched this year so it's pretty awesome to see it discounted down to just $110! The REI Sahara T-Shirt is outrageously comfy and stretchy. It's made with sweat-wicking and odor-resistant fabric to keep you dry and smelling clean no matter how hot it gets. It also offers UPF 30 sun protection and looks chic; what more could you want out of a tee? This exercise top was inspired by running apparel, but then adapted to make it suitable for mountain-based high-intensity activities. It's breathable, maximizes airflow, and is designed to reduce chafing. If you have some hikes or excursions on your agenda, these pants will be your go to. Their breathable fabric was built for movement and their durable, air permeable and water repellent properties will keep you protected from the elements. Environmentally conscious, high-performing, and lightweight, this rain jacket is a total winner! The water-repellant jacket has a dry touch finish and stuffs into its own pocket, making it packable and easy to tote along on all your daily adventures. We named the Brooks Glycerin 21 our favorite cushioned running shoes for short and long distances, especially if you're training for a race. In our Brooks Glycerin 21 review, we said our first 5K run in them was pleasant, especially at slower speeds. And the shoes also proved to be a good companion for longer sessions on tired legs. The Clifton is Hoka's most popular shoe line, and one of the most popular from any brand, and I rate it as one of the best shoes for new runners in particular thanks to the comfortable foam in its midsole. It's a generation old at this point, but still a very capable shoe.
Forbes
10-04-2025
- Business
- Forbes
This Polyester Outdoor Jacket Is Made From Polyester Outdoor Jackets
You may own a fleece top or two made from plastic soda bottles. Recycled polyester, or polyethylene terephthalate, known in the industry as PET or just 'chip,' is old hat. US outdoor clothing brand Patagonia first transformed trash into fluffy fleece in 1993. So far, so normal. But it's not anywhere near normal for a polyester outdoor jacket to be recycled into PET and then remade as another polyester outdoor jacket. British outdoor clothing brand Páramo has achieved this feat, although at a premium. The employee-owned company's $830 Halkon 360° jacket—360° as in full circle, a nod to the product's recycled nature—has a fabric liner made from recycled chip, but it's twice the price of its Halkon jacket that does not have a liner made from recycled chip. 'Performance-wise, the jackets are exactly the same,' says Páramo CEO Richard Pyne. 'They will both keep you dry and comfortable out on the hill.' Both are also made by the Miquelina Foundation, a nun-run sewing workshop offering practical help to women rescued from the streets of Bogotá, Colombia. Páramo has partnered with this educational body since 1992 when the company was spun out of Nikwax, a British brand of waterproofing products for outdoor kit. (Páramo is a grassland habitat ecosystem of South America's Andes mountains.) Páramo CEO Richard Pyne. Páramo Páramo and Nikwax—both based in the market town of Wadhurst in rural East Sussex (population: 3,407)—were founded by Nick Brown, an extremely tall outdoors enthusiast who concocted an eco-friendly boot waterproofing product in the late 1970s while fresh out of university. Nikwax still makes this boot wax as well as wash-in PFAS-free water-based waterproofing products using Durable Water Repellent (DWR) polymer coatings; these are hydrophobic or water-hating, and it's this 'hate' that does the repelling. Nikwax products are free of solvents, persistent chemicals of concern, and perfluorochemicals, or PFCs. 'The 360° [version of the Halkon] arrived at the end of a seven-year development cycle for us,' says Pyne. 'We've always manufactured in polyester, keeping to a single material to eventually make it easier to solve the end-of-life problem [for our products]. We believe that the onus is on the brand, rather than the customer, to collect and deal with end-of-life garments. If consumers put jackets into bins, nobody really knows where anything goes, whereas a business can collect it all and know what's what. We've been working with a chemical recycling facility in Japan for several years, sending them a few tons of jackets collected each year. Chemical recycling for textiles is still relatively new. When we started collecting old jackets, the chemical recycling technology was not available.' Two years ago, the recycling technology was ready for commercialization. 'Our [Japanese] facility got to the point where their chemically recycled PET chips—the building blocks of polyester—was the same quality as virgin polyester; that was a breakthrough. Up until that point, we'd had either mechanical recycling, where whatever you put in is what you get out, so any impurities, including dyes, become part of the output, leading to a drop-off in quality; not great for high-performance outdoor clothing.' The Japanese recycled chip was now as good as virgin polyester but was fiendish expensive. 'The [new-process] chip was fifteen times the price of the standard recycled chip,' says Pyne, 'and that wouldn't be something that could we ordinarily move forwards with.' But, by making a halo product—and that's the Halkon 360° jacket—'we could show the world that it *is* possible [to use this technology],' says Pyne. 'We're a small business, but if we were willing to do this, others might be convinced to do it, too.' With other companies working with the technology, prices will come down. 'There are many businesses out there that are much bigger than us, and not just in the outdoor industry, who can and should be doing this. The fifteen-times-more expensive technology can come down to something that's actually affordable.' Making and selling the Halkon 360° jacket was, confirms Pyne, done to 'start a conversation' around the full-circle recycling technology. According to Pyne, companies such as Nike and Adidas could use the chemically recycled PET chip. 'We shouldn't be paying fifteen times more for fully sustainable textiles,' he says. 'It's still cheaper to make virgin polyester than to chemically recover it, but that needs to change.' Páramo has worked with a vertically integrated fabric mill in Colombia for 26 years. 'They can spin their own yarns and then make their own textiles,' says Pyne, 'and they said we'll buy some chip, and we'll make your lining fabric for you.' Páramo's outdoor garments don't work like jackets made from Gore-Tex, a waterproof barrier fabric made with a partially breathable expanded PTFE membrane. Gore-Tex jackets must be joined with 'welded' seams, stuck down with powerful glues. Such glues and taped seams make Gore-tex jackets unsuitable for chemical recycling. Once a Gore-tex fabric has been punctured, water seeps in, rendering that part of the jacket ineffective. Páramo jackets, on the other hand, are not made with barrier membranes and still work when punctured. The fabrics used for the outers are not impervious to rain, but water ingress is slowed through the use of (Nikwax) chemical treatments. While water can seemingly soak the outer fabric of a Páramo jacket, the jacket's hydrophilic, i.e., water-loving, internal liner sucks up water droplets and sweat vapor and 'pumps' it outside the jacket via capillary action known as 'wicking.' 'Nick's about eight foot tall,' jokes Pyne, 'and he struggled in membranes. He got very hot [when walking outdoors] and didn't find [membranes] worked for him, so he started thinking, 'There's got to be a better way of doing this.' He's pretty stubborn—as most entrepreneurs are—and he looked at how mammals keep themselves dry. He worked with textile mills to develop a fabric that mimicked animal fur. He used his TX-10 [waterproofing liquid, now known as TX-Direct] to replicate the oil in animal fur and got this movement of water from one side of the material to the other. [Páramo] keeps you dry in a different way [to membranes]. You don't have that horrible, sweaty feel on the inside. You can stick pins in [a Páramo garment], pierce it with nails, and then take them out, and it will perform exactly the same. It means you can darn it if you get it caught on something, and it rips.' The raw material used to make polyester is crude oil. 'Extracting oil from the ground is a dirty business, laden with environmental and social risks,' says a Páramo statement. 'By recycling polyester, we conserve the material we've already extracted and help reduce the need for more drilling.' Both Nikwax and Páramo have operated as an employee-owned business since 2022, when Brown transferred his shares to the firm's Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). Páramo's sales are seasonal (the brand has few products for summer use), but the firm's long-term manufacturing contract with the Miquelina Foundation ensures year-round production. One hundred twenty women are employed by the project, with Páramo saying its work with the Miquelina Foundation has helped more than 10,000 local women since 1992. 85% of Páramo Clothing is produced by the Miquelina Foundation. 'Whereas most brands will book a production space over in the Far East for spring, summer and another one for [fall] and winter, we maintain level production throughout the year so that Miquelina have steady income coming in,' says Pyne. 'There are no peaks and troughs, so Miquelina can maintain staffing.' The Colombian workers are part of Páramo's EOT structure. 'For them, it's amazing,' says Pyne. 'They're part of this Western company. We're very open with our finances; everyone wins.' The Halkon 360° jacket is available in green only. 'We make jackets that last a long time,' says Pyne. 'We don't use fashion colors that might be popular for just six months, and then our retailers feel the need to sell them all off cheap and buy new ones in. That would feed the problem. We design with longevity in mind.'
