Patagonia is often cited as one of the few companies truly walking the walk when it comes to giving back to the planet. Their outdoor gear is designed to last and now, it’s also designed to help marine life last. Their entire NetPlus collection is made from recycled fishing nets.
Derelict fishing gear poses a huge risk to marine ecosystems because a net doesn’t stop catching fish just because it has fallen off the back of a trawler. These nets, called ghost nets, can be detrimental if they are left in the ocean, ensnaring all kinds of marine life indefinitely.
Patagonia’s partner Bureo is tackling the problem head on, working with fishing communities in Chile, Peru, Argentina, Ecuador, Mexico, the Seychelles, Japan, and the United States to collect worn out fishing nets. These nets, which are more likely to tear and end up in the ocean or be discarded, are then cleaned and shredded to be sent for recycling. A depolymerization process breaks down the nets and turns them into nylon pellets, which can then be extruded to yarn and become clothing, in Patagonia’s case, performance outdoor gear.
You can feel good about investing in some new kit while also investing in the ocean’s health when shopping this collection. I’d recommend starting your browsing with the rugged Outdoor Everyday Shorts, which have a finish designed to reduce harmful PFAS while still being waterproof. Or for rougher weather, perhaps the Down Sweater (available with and without a hood), which would make for an excellent mid or outer layer. This insulated jacket is windproof and waterproof (with the same anti-PFAS tech), and it packs down to a tiny pouch for easy storage. There are pants, overalls, hats, and even sports bras…You can even shop secondhand through Patagonia’s website if you want to be even more eco-conscious.
When it comes to being sustainable, consider shopping less to pollute less, and when you really do need to replace kit, opt for products that will last and have a positive impact while doing it. At the end of the day, there is no sailing if we don’t protect the oceans, and companies like Patagonia are offering options that you can feel better about.
$Various, Patagonia.com/netplus
March 2025
