How Green Is That…Rain Gear?
Umbrellas, Boots and Slickers that Are Keeping It Green
Ready to suit up for the wet weather and in the market for new gear? Stay dry with umbrellas, boots and slickers that can withstand the elements while keeping resource use to a minimum.
1. Each umbrella ($45) from Monsoon Vermont is unique—colorfully crafted from plastic trash (including detergent labels and candy wrappers) that’s collected and sorted in Indonesia. The outside edge of the umbrella is lined with silk fabric. The umbrellas provide a livelihood and support clean water in the slums of Jakarta.
2. The Jennifer Rainboot ($65) from Kamik is simple and stylish, comes in a multitude of colors and is made with recyclable, PVC-free synthetic rubber. There’s a decorative buckle and patch and a removable comfort foot bed and the boots can be sent back to the company for recycling once they’ve enjoyed a long life of puddle-splashing.
3. Patagonia’s Arborist Trench Coat ($299) lets you weather the downpour in style. It’s thigh-length and made of recycled polyester with a waterproof barrier and a water-repellant finish. There’s also a hood, hand warmers and a fabric belt for keeping it shapely.