Winter 2019 - Inside Outdoor Magazine

Inside Outdoor | WINTER 2019 34 Chandler. “We integrate distinct and functional design elements into our products so they aren’t just suited for a hike or wearing around town, but for doing so in remote or exotic locations.” At the Outdoor Retailer show the brand showed off pants and bags with hidden pockets for storing passports, as well as other well- thought-out features. Its Transfer pack features a removable pod in its top pocket for storing electronics and documents that can be locked away in hotel safes or easily accessed on planes when storing the bag in the overhead compartment. But beyond thoughtful design, Kathmandu is a leader in sustainability. “Being from an island nation where resources are pre- cious, sustainability has always been a key element of Kathmandu’s DNA,” said Chandler. Kathmandu began using post-con- sumer recycled polyester as far back as 1994 in its Ecofleece range, and last year the company recycled 6.7 million plastic bottles into its gear. Additionally, all Kathmandu clothing and equipment containing goose or duck down is 100 percent ethically sourced and certified by the Responsible Down Standard. The company also reached 80 percent of its zero-waste landfill target. Its efforts have not gone unnoticed, as the brand is ranked second globally by the Textile Exchange for preferred materials and received an ‘A’ rating for the third year in a row from the Ethical Fashion Report. The Stockton men’s and women’s rain jacket highlights many of the brand’s sustainability capabilities. The jacket’s face fabric, insulation and in- ner liner are all constructed from recy- cled materials. Its face fabric is made with REPREVE fibers created from recycled bottles and is also bluesign approved. Additionally, its waterproof- breathable membrane is bio-based, which requires less water to produce. Another interesting Kathmandu product showcased at Outdoor Re- tailer was its Connect Smart Pack, a sleek travel backpack with an integrat- ed charging system with smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth. Using the Joey Smartbag App to connect with the pack, users can allocate charging time for their devices or friends who need a quick charge, so not to com- pletely deplete the devices 6,200mA battery. It also has a distance alarm that alerts users if their phone and bag are separated beyond a predeter- mined distance. While the integrated electronics are impressive, they are matched by the bag’s interior design for organizing electronics and manag- ing their often-unwieldy wires. “We are always on the lookout for what is next in terms of materials, sus- tainability processes and technology,” added Chandler. Kiwis generally only take a year or so when they head out on their over- seas experiences, but as often hap- pens they find a special person on their travels that leads to a more permanent situation. Kathmandu is confident that it will find that special connection with U.S. consumers and retailers. m BrandWatch The women’s Stockton jacket A look inside the Connect Smart pack