From wool socks to faux-fur-lined hats, thriving in a colder climate demands certain wardrobe-essentials. Few accessories are more important than your winter coat — pea coats, bomber jackets, trench coats, fleeces, and (the ultimate staple) puffer jackets. It’s easy to fall in love with your puffy coat; besides its ski-chic aesthetic, the marshmallow-like insulation helps the wearer stay extra warm.
Ultimately, the most sustainable puffer jacket is the one in your closet from last season. But when the wear-and-tear becomes too much, and it’s time to purchase a new one, consult this list of cozy, colorful, and eco-friendly options.
Patagonia is a pioneer in sustainable jackets, and we love their iconic puffer coats for several reasons. The company sources recyclable materials and carefully vets its supply chain. Plus, the popular California-based brand is an active member of 1% for the Planet, contributing 1% of its annual revenue to environmental causes (totaling more than $140 million since 1985).
Our favorite Patagonia recycled puffer jacket this season is the classic Nano Puff — at just $239, this puffer is practical, lightweight, and warm. And, of course, it’s eco-friendly. The insulation and water-resistant shell are made from recycled materials, and the Nano Puff is produced in a Fair Trade Certified factory.
Cotopaxi is still a pretty young brand (Founder Davis Smith launched the company in 2014), but you’ve no doubt seen their super colorful gear. The socially conscious brand has established a sort of cult following; not only are its products sustainable and comfortable, but Cotopaxi offers a lifetime guarantee. The company is a 1% for the Planet coalition member, adheres to the UN’s Global Compact and Principles of Responsible Business, and relies on recycled, repurposed, or responsibly sourced textiles.
This winter, we are falling in love with Cotopaxi’s Solazo Down Hooded Jacket. This ultra-warm puffer uses humanely sourced down feathers and is available in appealing color palettes like Chestnut/Spice or Woods/Drizzle. Cotopaxi sustainable coats are built to last, but if you ever need a refresh, trade in your one-loved gear — you’ll get a Cotopaxi gift card and give your unwanted coat a second chance.
Girlfriend Collective makes ethical and inclusive activewear. Trendy and comfortable, their collections appear on top fashion sites like Vogue and Glamour (but without the high-fashion sticker price). The brand vets its production partners for fair labor standards and integrates cutting-edge sustainable fabrics from plastic water bottles and other eco-friendly textile options. All of the packaging is 100% recycled and recyclable. Plus, 1% of every purchase is donated to nonprofit organizations like Doctors Without Borders or North Shore Animal League America.
Not only can you feel great about shopping from Girlfriend Collective, but you will absolutely love their Packable Puffer. Made from plastic water bottles, you can select from fun colors like jam, crystal, fox, and wild ginger. As the name suggests, the jacket is packable, so you can quickly stuff it into a convenient inner pocket. It’s flattering, lightweight, and affordable (did we mention that this packable puffer is less than $150?).
The Backcountry brand sells multiple labels for specialty outdoor gear and activewear. The Backcountry team takes its sustainability and DEI initiatives seriously and ensures its products meet high-level standards for sustainability criteria. The company partners with the Nature Conservancy to invest in preserving our natural spaces.
Check out Backcountry’s Raglan ALLIED Down Parka for a chic, ski-chalet-inspired outer layer. Made from 100% recycled polyester and responsibly sourced down feathers, this puffer parka is a mix of luxury and sustainability. While typically costing around $300, you can score a great deal on the Raglan ALLIED Down Parka during the holiday sales.
Passenger founder Richard Sutcliffe strives to create mindful, responsibly sourced clothing and accessories. The company prioritizes transparency and adaptability, recognizing that the apparel industry has a long way to go in its sustainability journey. To help lessen the industry’s footprint, for every Passenger product ordered, the brand plants a tree (the company has facilitated over 500,000 trees planted since its inception). Additionally, most Passenger products are made from recycled or organic fibers.
The Pow Recycled Insulated Jacket is 100% recycled inside and out. This puffer is lightweight and stylish, making it the perfect layer for autumn hikes. You can wear this jacket all day long — it’s that soft and comfortable. It’s vegan-friendly, water-resistant, and ships in plastic-free packaging (oh, and it’s the most affordable jacket on this list!).
At evee Life, we aspire to make sustainable living trendy, accessible, and fun! Find even more eco-friendly tips and products we love on our blog.
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Published January 2, 2024 3:25PM
Eveelife is an eco-oriented lifestyle platform that helps consumers make more purposeful choices about how they live and what they consume. We do it by curating content and products that help them make more conscious, carbon-free choices while amplifying their EV ownership experience.
