Burgeon Outdoor is a New Hampshire-based maker of performance apparel for hikers and the mountain lifestyle. United By Blue is an outdoor brand dedicated to an “anti-waste mindset” that has removed more than 4 million pounds of trash from waterways since 2010. The two brands have collaborated on a limited-edition fleece hoodie that serves both companies’ benevolent missions.
The UBB × Burgeon Highlander hoodie, made using Polartec microgrid fleece, is made entirely in the U.S. – knit in Hickory, N.C., and hand-sewn in small batches in Burgeon’s facility in the White Mountain of New Hampshire. Burgeon employs local artisans as part of its efforts to keep manufacturing jobs in the communities where its gear is worn. United By Blue, meanwhile, has agreed to remove a pound of trash from the world’s oceans and waterways for every Highlander that is sold. What’s more, 5% of each sale is being reinvested into New Hampshire trail maintenance, further compounding on the positive impact of supporting domestic manufacturing and fair labor practices.
“We sew every garment by hand in the White Mountains because we think how something is made matters,” said Rudy Glocker, CEO of Burgeon Outdoor. “Teaming up with United by Blue means every hoodie that leaves the workshop also pulls a pound of trash from American waterways, which aligns with our work in trail communities and is something we’re proud to support.”
The Highlander hoodie is made with 90% recycled polyester fleece and is available in two colorways: Moraine and Ice Cave, inspired by the landscape both brands are working to protect. Retailing for about $110, the UBB × Burgeon Highlander is positioned alongside the Patagonia R1 and Arc’teryx Delta, offering comparable breathability through a microgrid construction but made in the USA versus overseas and costing about $30 to $40 less.
“I spent a lot of time as a kid in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, so when I found out about Burgeon’s support for the local communities and strong values, it felt natural to develop something together,” added Seth Burroughs, CEO of United by Blue. “With 1 pound of trash cleaned for every item sold, American manufacturing, and Burgeon’s commitment to give 5% to local communities, this garment makes a measurable impact while offering our customers one of the best American-made mid-layers out there.”
The pre-order window for the highlander closes May 23.
