ALLIED Feather + Down, NetPlus, and Resortecs are revolutionizing the fashion industry with their groundbreaking circularity solution, the Peak Performance R&D Helium Loop Anorak. This innovative jacket combines cutting-edge design with responsible sourcing, setting a new standard for sustainable apparel.
The collaboration between these industry leaders and Peak Performance, a Swedish ski apparel brand, has resulted in a paradigm-shifting jacket that challenges the traditional end-of-life recycling process for performance products. Until now, recycling such complex garments has been nearly impossible due to the difficulty of disassembly. However, by working together, they've created a design that proves advanced collaboration can drive real change.
Matthew Betcher, Creative Director at ALLIED, emphasizes the importance of designing for circularity from the outset. "Brands have long sought to incorporate more circular practices, but the responsibility has often fallen on ingredient partners and startups. By bringing our expertise as innovative ingredient brands, we're building a truly circular product from the ground up. This project has the potential to become a beacon for future product lines."
Each partner brings a unique contribution to the Helium Loop Anorak. ALLIED provides 800-fill power down, a renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable insulation, ensuring the jacket's sustainability. NetPlus transforms fishing net waste into 100% PCR nylon yarn, which is then woven by PERTEX to create the shell and liner. Resortecs' Smart Stitch™ technology enables easy material separation, allowing the stitching to melt away under controlled conditions, making recycling down plumes and shell materials a seamless process.
Marie Andersson, the designer behind the project, highlights the core insight: "True circularity isn't about compromise; it's about thoughtful disassembly. Our R&D Helium Loop demonstrates that when premium materials meet end-of-life considerations, circularity becomes a performance advantage."
David Stover, CEO of Bureo (the company behind NetPlus), adds, "The Helium Loop project showcases how responsible materials and design can prevent pollution and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Technical outerwear often relies on crude oil, a harmful practice throughout the supply chain. By combining better materials with thoughtful design, Peak Performance has made significant progress in building products suited for end-of-life recycling."
This collaboration marks a significant step towards Peak Performance's long-term goal of achieving total range circularity by 2030, setting a new benchmark for the industry.
