No one loves a little retail therapy more than us - but come on guys, it's nearly 2021. We're all shopping sustainably by now. As skiers and snowboarders we've gotta look after our planet as much as possible. Thankfully, the snow sports industry is becoming greener and greener, with more recyclable materials, more ethical working conditions, and more sustainable technology.
So do yourself - and the planet - a favour when you're looking for new gear this winter, and buy from a company that cares about the environment. Whether it's a new snowboard, jacket, gloves, a facemask - there'll be a company out there that's doing it ethically. We've done the research for you and found the best gear that is the best for the planet. You're welcome.
Snowboards
OUR TOP PICK - Niche
Niche is a zero-waste, environmentally friendly company, who also happen to make beautiful and high quality snowboards. They use locally sources, alternative materials in all of their boards, with none of the toxic chemicals that harm the planet. PLUS Niche is female owned by two rad women - Kirsten Chapman Kolter and Ana Van Pelt.
With sustainable processes and the most creative graphics in the game, Niche is our fave snowboard brand this winter.
Other sustainable board brands:
Mervin Manufacturing (Lib Tech, Gnu, Bent Metal)
Skis
OUR TOP PICK - Salomon
Salomon has been in the ski business since 1947 (although they also make snowboards) and is doing great things to become more sustainable. They use environmentally friendly materials in their products which allows them to be recycled, they're actively reducing water and energy consumption, and they offer at least a 2-year warranty on most of their skis and gear, which is a testament to the durability of their products. Once you've bought, you're good.
Salomon also get extra points for their foundation which helps snow sport athletes with disabilities as a result of injury to get back into the mountains. Who says you can't help the people while you help the planet?
Other sustainable ski brands:
Outerwear and soft goods
OUR TOP PICK - Yuki Threads
This relatively new company fresh from Australia is already well-known for it’s good quality, good-looking, ethical clothing and accessories. We love their style, we love that every fleece and jacket is made from recycled plastic bottles, we love EVERYTHING.
Other sustainable apparel brands:
What else can I do?
Beaver Wax or Board Butter Glide Wax for eco friendly (Canadian-made) ski/snowboard wax
Picture for helmets made from 100% recycled materials
Pole Plant for hand crafted ski poles made from bamboo
Badger or Green Beaver for eco-friendly sunscreen and skin products
Dakine for sustainably-made backpacks, gloves, and more
mellomade for vintage street wear made by snowboarder Jenaya Jenkins
Always investigate the companies you're buying from, and choose local retailers whenever you can. Even better - swap and trade gear with other people, it reduces waste and any new materials that would have been used. Often you can find good quality second-hand equipment for a really good price. Check out the 'Buy, Swap, Sell' page on our forum to find second-hand steals from the NITP family.
Finally, choosing your merchandise is one thing, but to really fight climate change we need to look at the bigger picture. We've got to back environmental policies by voting for political parties with green objectives. Protect Our Winters (POW) is a worldwide community passionate about the outdoors who are experts in advancing environmentally-driven policies. Check out their website for helpful information, receive environmental news about your area, and everything else you can do to become an advocate for the climate.
So are we all agreed? We're gonna look after this planet? Let us know in the comments what your wish list looks like this year. We personally love "The Equaliser" by Jess Kimura... and guess what? It's made sustainably. *punches the air*
Written by Hannah Hurley - Official NITP Blog Writer.