How to Sell Eco-friendly Performance Apparel

By Colleen McKenna

I have many reasons to like the PPAI Expo: after show drinks at The Cosmopolitan, meeting sources I have interviewed on the phone or email, hanging out with the PM staff at events like the Power Meeting happy hour. But my favorite is stopping by apparel booths and feeling the garments. Two such garments are the Radar Ladies' Half-Zip Performance Long Sleeve Top and the Motivate CORE365 Ladies' Unlined Lightweight Jacket, which I received samples of at Ash City's media event. They are examples of how garments can be comfortable and performance-ready without sacrificing the environment. Credit is due to Mabel Kwok and Elson Yeung for designing the responsible garments.

The Radar Ladies' Half-Zip Performance Long Sleeve Top
The performance top has red detailing that stands out against the black material. It is a sharp look, especially for active people. Unlike my Philadelphia Marathon shirt, these princess seams fit well and do not shorten the garment. The shirt hit just below my hips, which is what you need if you are running or biking. Worrying about exposed skin is the last thing you want while working out. The embroidery on the top back under the collar is understated, but still stands out. The material is soft and light. In fact, as I was taking pictures of the shirt for my blog, a few other writers stopped by to feel the shirt because it looks so inviting.

Good for: marathons, triathlons and corporate fitness programs.

The Motivate CORE365 Ladies' Unlined Lightweight Jacket

I love when you can see water droplets repel and drip from rain jackets, which is exactly what happened when I poured water onto this Ash City water-resistant jacket. The jacket is light enough that it will not add too much extra bulk or warmth if you are exercising in the rain (or simply walking outside during a summer rain). The collar also ensures no water will get inside the jacket. The lower left pocket imprint is unexpected, but smart because it does not look like the standard corporate left pocket imprint.

Good for: schools, universities, offices and sports teams.

The Recycled Polyester Process

Ash City also included information on the recycled polyester process, as well as samples of recycled materials that make up the garments.