Alpinistas and Our Values

At Alpinistas, we’re all about getting outside as that is the core of why we do what we do. Naturally, our company, our brand, our culture focuses on that. We love the outdoors, and we want to protect it. One way we can protect our earth is by what we wear. We don’t just partner with the brands we offer to you because they are cool (they are), or because they are the best performing (again, they are). We chose them because they hold our core values of protecting the environment and respecting those who live in it.

Below, we've included a few of our brand partners' certifications. These are snapshots of the work these companies do for the planet, but defining them helps us better understand the impact of our gear choices.

Responsibly sourced down

Responsibly sourced down or R.D.S. is an independent international rating for how down insulation is sourced. R.D.S. ensures that ducks and geese receive humane treatment. This humane treatment includes moving freely in clean environments without painful removal of down. This certification considers the whole supply chain, so there's no "almost all humane down."

Recycled fill

In the case of synthetic insulation, many companies have implemented a goal of 100% recycled fill. Excess or discarded synthetic textiles are recycled and made into synthetic insulation. Not only does this reduce waste at a manufacturing level, but it also reduces carbon emissions by cutting down the creation of new textiles for fill.

Bluesign

The Bluesign Initiative and certification is focused on reducing hazardous chemicals at every step of the textile process. Starting with manufacturers and harvesters taking correct steps to reduce harmful chemicals in production and ensuring the workers are provided safety equipment. From raw materials on this dedication to safe handling, storage, safe disposal, and reduction of chemicals must be upheld to be granted the Bluesign label. This certification means everyone from farmworker to final retailer supports the best practices to keep harmful chemicals from our environment.

OEKO-TEX

OEKO-TEX is an independent agency that rates textiles and consumer materials on their impact on human health. This includes if the dyes used in stitching are hazardous to your health or if your hardshell's zippers are made from metal mined with safe materials. OKEO-TEX also has the STeP certification. STeP takes the findings of chemical treatments and factors in a company's actions to reduce their carbon footprint, material waste, and even the working conditions of employees. OEKO-TEX also provides a label check on their website to verify their rating.

GOTS

GOTS, an acronym for Global Organic Textile Standard, isn't just about certifying materials are organic. Its focus is on sustainable practices so that organic textiles will continue to provide for farmers and companies while maintaining harmony with the land.

Like our certifications up above, we have included a snapshot of our brands. Rather than relist all of the certifications they carry on their product lines, we have chosen to focus on the mindset and missions that make them unique.

Rab

Rab is a leading climate-neutral company. By 2030, they aim to be net carbon zero. Rab uses P.U.R.E. recycled down, taking the R.D.S. a step further. Using recycled down, Rab reduces the carbon impact of a down jacket even further.

prAna

PrAna has been a leader in sustainable clothing since its inception. From 100% organic cotton and hemp textiles to fair trade certified clothing, PrAna continues to push the boundaries of environmentally-minded fashion.

Marmot

Marmot is a Bluesign certified company focused on sustainably sourced materials and fair labor practices. Their three pillars are the "three Ps." People, focusing on fair and just labor practices. Products, making long-lasting responsibly made clothing and gear. Planet, supporting nonprofits that better the world through education, political action, or research.

Wolven

Wolven is carbon neutral, working to offset its carbon footprint by purchasing carbon credits. Their clothing is made from carbon-neutral fabrics like sustainable fibers and, in some cases, 100% recycled P.E.T. textiles. Wolven is also a proud member of 1% for the environment and workplace conditions assessment focused on verifying fair and safe treatment of workers in the textile industry.

Black Diamond Equipment

Black Diamond has a tremendous focus on reducing carbon emissions, purchasing clean air credits, and lifting those in the outdoor world. They vet dealers, so black diamond products are sold by those who care about the earth to those who care about the earth.

MiiR

MiiR may seem out of place in this lineup of sustainably-minded clothing companies because it’s not a clothing company. MiiR is a drinkware company focused on change. They are carbon neutral and a 1% for the planet member. They also give a portion of every sale to projects ranging from sustainability to social justice, with more than 1.5million dollars given in 2020 alone.

Kavu

Kavu is another one of our brands that takes a holistic approach to sustainability. Kavu uses multiple certifications to get the most impactful products for their company while also using recycled paper for invoicing and tags. Their offices and warehouses have been "all-digital" to reduce paper use for nearly a decade.

As we grow we will continue to hold to our core values of bringing great products to great people, in the highest order. We want every customer to understand they are more than just a customer, they are part of a community of like-minded outdoorswomen that put environmental impact at the forefront when shopping.