Eco-Friendly Hiking Shorts: A Guide to Making Ethical Choices

 

Many hiking shorts are made from synthetic materials that are derived from fossil fuels, use harmful chemicals in their production, and take a long time to decompose.

Fortunately, there are eco-friendly alternatives that can help you reduce your environmental footprint while still looking good and feeling comfortable on the trail.

In this guide, we will show you how to make ethical choices when buying Cresta hiking shorts or any shorts, and what features to look for in eco-friendly hiking shorts.

What Are Eco-Friendly Hiking Shorts?

Eco-friendly hiking shorts are shorts that are made from natural or recycled materials that have a lower environmental impact than conventional synthetic fabrics.

Some examples of eco-friendly materials are:

Organic Cotton

Cotton that is grown without the use of pesticides, herbicides, or synthetic fertilizers. Organic cotton uses less water and energy than conventional cotton and is biodegradable.

Hemp

A fast-growing plant that requires little water and no pesticides or fertilizers. Hemp is durable, breathable, and antimicrobial, making it ideal for hiking shorts.

Bamboo

A renewable resource that grows quickly and can be harvested without killing the plant. Bamboo is soft, moisture-wicking, and antibacterial, and can be blended with other fibers to create hiking shorts.

Recycled Polyester

Polyester is made from recycled plastic bottles or other post-consumer waste. Recycled polyester reduces the amount of plastic waste in landfills and oceans, and saves energy and water compared to virgin polyester.

Recycled Nylon

Nylon is made from recycled fishing nets or other nylon waste. Recycled nylon helps prevent marine pollution and wildlife entanglement, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption compared to virgin nylon.

How to Choose Eco-Friendly Hiking Shorts?

When shopping for eco-friendly hiking shorts, there are some factors to consider besides the material. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:

Look for Certifications 

Certifications are labels that indicate that a product meets certain standards of environmental or social responsibility. Some common certifications for eco-friendly hiking shorts are:

Gots (Global Organic Textile Standard)

The most comprehensive certification for organic textiles, covering the entire supply chain from farming to manufacturing.

GOTS ensures that the product is made from at least 95% organic fibers and that no harmful chemicals or dyes are used in the process.

Oeko-Tex Standard 100

A certification that tests for harmful substances in textiles, such as heavy metals, formaldehyde, or phthalates. Oeko-Tex Standard 100 ensures that the product is safe for human health and the environment.

bluesign

A certification that audits the environmental performance of textile manufacturers, ensuring that they use resources efficiently, minimize emissions and waste, and protect workers’ health and safety.

Fair Trade

A certification that guarantees fair wages and working conditions for farmers and workers in developing countries. Fair Trade also supports community development projects and environmental protection.

Check the Durability

Eco-friendly hiking shorts should last for a long time, so you don’t have to buy new ones frequently. Look for well-made hiking shorts, with strong stitching, reinforced seams, and quality zippers and buttons.

You can also check online reviews or ask other hikers for recommendations on durable brands.

Choose the Right Fit and Style

Eco-friendly hiking shorts should fit you well and suit your personal style. Look for hiking shorts that have an adjustable waistband, a gusseted crotch, and enough pockets for your essentials.

You can also choose between different lengths, colors, and patterns depending on your preference.

How to Care for Eco-Friendly Hiking Shorts?

To extend the lifespan of your eco-friendly hiking shorts and keep them in good condition, you should follow these simple steps:

Wash Them Less Often

Washing your hiking shorts too frequently can wear them out faster and release microplastics into the water.

Try to wash them only when they are dirty or smelly, and use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.

You can also use a laundry bag or a filter to catch any microfibers that may come off during washing.

Repair Them If Needed

If your hiking shorts get torn or ripped, don’t throw them away. You can try to fix them yourself with a needle and thread or take them to a tailor or a repair shop.

You can also use patches, buttons, or embroidery to cover up any holes or stains and add some personality to your shorts.

Recycle Them When They Are Worn Out

When your hiking shorts are beyond repair, you can still give them a new life by recycling them.

You can donate them to a charity or a thrift store, or sell them online or at a garage sale.

You can also look for recycling programs that accept textiles, such as Patagonia’s Worn Wear or H&M’s Garment Collecting.

 For more information, you can contact us.