Preferred Fibres
Why do we have Preferred Fibres?
As a brand built from a love of the sea, we’ve always been committed to reducing our environmental footprint – continually adopting lower impact materials, processes and technologies.
Having a defined list of preferred fibres helps us define our own standards; promoting responsible sourcing, supporting regenerative practices where possible, and helping us select materials for their lower environmental impacts, as well as their ability to last, be repaired, repurposed or recycled.
We’ve aligned our standards with industry best practice, such as the Textile Exchange’s Fibre and Materials Matrix, while also championing the development of innovative materials and technologies that minimise - or even positively impact - our oceans. Through every fibre choice, we strive to take a step toward a more responsible and sustainable future. To uphold the integrity of our materials and processes, our fibre standards incorporate certifications for specific fibres, helping to substantiate our socially and environmentally responsible sourcing practices.
These certifications also support our compliance with regulations such as the EU Green Claims Directive and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA), and contribute to our alignment with upcoming EU legislation, including the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), the French AGEC law, and the UK Green Claims Directive. Importantly, they also enable us to meet the sustainability standards and due diligence requirements set by our global wholesale partners.
2025
Maintaining our preferred fibre standards will keep us focused on long-term progress, while also acknowledging the evolving realities we must work within.
As new science emerges, our understanding deepens, and innovations in materials and technologies continue to evolve, we will regularly review and update our fibre standards. This ensures we remain at the forefront of responsible sourcing, adapt to new regulatory requirements, and reflect our growing knowledge as a team and a business committed to progress.
Definitions in Table:
Highly Preferred (Leading Choice)
Delivers the highest positive impact and is currently the best-in-class option based on environmental, social, and performance criteria. These fibres are prioritised across our products wherever possible.
Preferred
A responsible choice with a strong impact profile and a lower overall footprint. These fibres meet key impact benchmarks and are favoured where Highly Preferred options are not yet viable.
Accepted
Used only where preferred alternatives are not yet viable, typically for construction, quality, or specific design needs. Their use is limited, under ongoing review, and carefully considered before incorporating into new styles as we work toward lower-impact options.
Restricted
Use is strictly limited to cases where no viable alternative is currently available. These fibres are under active review as we explore more responsible replacements.
Not Accepted
Actively excluded due to significant environmental, animal welfare, or social risks. These fibres do not align with our values or impact goals and are not used in any products.
