Woolrich drops parka made with plant-based fibres

US outdoor label Woolrich has launched an eco version of its iconic Arctic Parka, produced using a next-generation fibre developed by Japanese start-up Spiber, which utilises plant-derived sugars as raw material.

The Brewed Protein polymers used for the parka has been developed by Japanese start-up Spiber by means of a microbial fermentation process similar to that used to produce alcoholic drinks. Brewed Protein technology is an innovative solution that reduces the microplastics pollution and greenhouse gas emissions associated with the use of petroleum-derived synthetic fabrics in the fashion industry. Using this technology confirms Woolrich’s commitment to adopt petroleum-free and animal-free materials.
 
The parkas will be produced by Goldwin, a Japanese sportswear company that holds a minority stake in Woolrich, and will be available for Fall/Winter 2023 at both brands’ physical and online stores in the USA, Europe and Japan.

In 2015, Goldwin teamed up with Spiber to develop protein-based materials designed to reduce its products’ environmental impact. In autumn 2015, Goldwin released the first outdoor jacket prototype made with Brewed Protein polymers. The latter can be used in various sectors, from apparel to automotive. Spiber produces Brewed Protein materials at scale in its factory in Thailand, and will soon open a second facility in the USA. 
 
Woolrich operates 33 monobrand stores in the EMEA, North America and Asia-Pacific regions. The company, which is almost two centuries old and launched the first Arctic Parka in 1972, has been controlled by the L-Gam investment fund since 2018.