More garment suppliers have joined a collective working to make recycled nylon “the natural choice” for outdoor clothing.
The Outdoor Industry Association, which represents manufacturers, suppliers and retailers, has become part of the Nylon Materials Collective – a network set up by circular materials innovator Samsara Eco.
The network has also been boosted by more brands joining including WL Gore & Associates, Burton, Black Diamond Equipment, Red Wing Shoe Company and Big Agnes.
The expansion has been described as “a significant milestone” for the collective which was launched in November last year in partnership with the European Outdoor Group to accelerate the adoption of circular nylon across the outdoor industry.
The Nylon Materials Collective brings together brands and supply chain partners to simplify the adoption of Samsara Eco’s high-performance recycled nylon.
By delivering validated material due diligence and supporting simplified pathways to recycled nylon, the collective enables brands of all sizes to start using circular materials more efficiently, reducing the logistical and commercial barriers that have traditionally slowed adoption.
Julie Brown, senior director of industry engagement and impact at the Outdoor Industry Association, said: “By joining the Nylon Materials Collective, we are helping our members reduce environmental impact, navigate evolving regulations and accelerate the shift to circular materials without compromising performance.
“This is about turning shared challenges into shared solutions and ensuring the outdoor industry continues to lead with responsibility, resilience and innovation for the long term.”
The European Outdoor Group represents around 150 brands, retailers, associations and other organisations including Regatta, Gore-Tex, Patagonia, Helly Hansen, Berghaus, The North Face, Adidas and WRAP.
Dr Katy Stevens, head of ESG [environmental, social and governance] at the European Outdoor Group, said: “We are pleased to see the continued expansion of the Nylon Materials Collective and the growing commitment from industry partners worldwide.
“By opening up access to circular materials for smaller organisations alongside global brands, this initiative demonstrates how collaboration can help scale practical solutions and accelerate progress towards circularity.”
Samsara Eco’s enzymatic recycling technology, EosEco, produces virgin-identical recycled materials including high-performance nylon 6.6 so brands can continue to produce durable products from recycled materials.
It can also help brands to strengthen their position to meet upcoming circular economy regulations around extended producer responsibility (EPR) and minimum recycled content mandates.
