Thermore, a leading Italian producer of thermal insulation, has taken the next major step towards sustainability by converting its entire Ecodown product line of synthetic down alternative to fully recycled fibre content, derived exclusively from PET water bottles.

The new 100% recycled and durable Ecodown line will be one of the product innovations discussed by the company at the upcoming OutDoor trade fair that takes place from 13-16 July in Friedrichshafen.

Emphasis on sustainability

“We live in a world where new generations are extremely conscious about the fact that Earth’s resources are limited. More and more people are embracing a lifestyle that emphasizes our love and respect for animals and the environment. For example, this point of view is reflected in the fact that animal fur has been virtually banned from most of outerwear collections,” the company explains.

“Down feathers are often plucked from live animals and many of us still keep vivid memories of the disturbing videos showing the cruel systems used to harvest feathers. So, why would we continue to use down filled jackets when there are more sustainable alternatives?”

“Thermore has always been at the forefront in developing durable and resistant thermal insulation with a strong emphasis on sustainability,” the company notes.

Recycled fibres

In the mid 80’s, Thermore introduced a thermal insulation made from recycled fibres from PET bottles and since then has mastered the use of recycled fibres.

According to the company, all of this experience and knowledge in sustainability has now been focused on the introduction of the new 100% recycled Ecodown thermal insulation, offering the market a warm, soft, durable and sustainable alternative to down.

Ecodown

This new solution aims to allow the reuse of a considerable number of bottles, which would have otherwise ended their useful life as waste in a landfill. Depending on the application, outerwear insulated with Ecodown can save up to 10 bottles per garment, according to the manufacturer. Using PET bottles instead of oil can also help protect energy reserves for future generations.

The new Ecodown 100% recycled thermal insulation does not require special quilting restrictions or fabrics and can be washed and/or dry cleaned with confidence, according to the company. A wide variety of weights and thickness options (over 20 variations) are available for various design requirements.

Thermore

Thermore was founded in 1972 in Milan and is a leader in the research, production and marketing of thermal insulation for apparel with operations in Europe, USA and Asia including production facilities in Thailand and offices in Hong Kong.

Thermore’s current product range includes Classic, Thermal Booster, Ecodown, EVOdown, Pro, Stretch and Aria. Thermore is a member of the Outdoor Industry Association, SnowSports Industries America and of the Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana.

www.thermore.com