1. House of Marley Headphones: eco-conscious headphones of superior quality and style made by a company honestly committed to giving back, but would Bob approve?

2. Eco-Friendly Kids’ Party Favors: some awesome ideas for filling favor bags at your child’s next birthday party that will wow their friends, parents and the eco-minded.

3. How to Recycle Butane Fuel Canisters: examines a nifty little tool that can help you easily and responsibly dispose of your used camping stove fuel canisters.

4. Pet-Safe and Eco-Friendly Lawn Care: some advice on fertilizers, pest control and weed killers that are safe for the planet and pets.

5. Eco-Barefoot Running Shoes Guide: the final installment of a three part series that outlines the top ten sustainable barefoot running shoes out there.

6. Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats: an in-depth look at different types of sustainable yoga mats and some recommendations for mats to try.

7. Very Eco Wedding Guest Dresses: fashionable and Earth-friendly options to turn heads at your next special occasion.

8. Top 10 Bamboo Lingerie, Organic Intimates and Eco-Underthings: a countdown of the top pics of stunning and feel-good pieces that are sure to please. Who ever said that eco couldn’t be exciting?!

9. 21 Bamboo and Organic Yoga Pants: an extensive list of the best yoga pants, shorts and capris from companies with a conscience.

10. Smaller Footprints with Recycled Material Tents: a rare look at two tents using recycled materials that you may have never heard of.

From all of us at IzzitGreen, thanks for all of your support to make 2011 an amazing year. Onward and upward!

Join IzzitGreen on Facebook for the latest good-green stuff!

Better Dancer

Jinga shoes are really, really light. A pair weighs less than 300 grams! The minimalist construction allows for foot flexibility and a maximum level of movement that I never knew I was missing. I find myself compelled to do the “happy feet dance” whenever I slip these bad boys on. Through some ingenious engineering Jinga’s protective TPU sole has managed to achieve great wear, grease and temperature resistance. Plus, the sole is sticky enough to allow for quick movements, but has a sweet spot with just enough slip for my awesome spins. It was incredible to actually find myself feeling light and on time with the thumping samba music. Although designed as dance footwear with roots as a capoeira shoe, Jingas are super comfortable with and without socks and an interesting option for barefoot or minimalist running, exercise class or street walkin’. But, if you think that these shoes are for blending in, think again. Jinga’s beautiful design is hip enough for the dance floor whether you’re into salsa, street dance, Zumba, jazz, modern or Dance Dance Revolution. Jinga shoes are as versatile in function as they are in style. Any of the five thousand color schemes creates a rhythm and expression that’s all your own. They even make shoes for kids. So even though there’s no hope for my dancing career, but from six months on, your little one can be feather light and making all the right steps.

Better Priorities

Jinga captures and celebrates the animation and passion of the Brazilian Culture in its shoes, while working to make a positive social and environmental impact in the country. Through careful selection, Jinga fosters long term relationships with socially and environmentally conscious suppliers. These lasting relationships create stability and facilitate better processes for people and the planet. Through its commitment to fair and responsible business practice in Brazil, Jinga is able to have a concrete impact on many Brazilians’ lives. Currently, the company provides a percentage of its profits to partner with a Brazilian NGO, REDEH, and offer an out of school activity program for Brazil’s youth. Going forward, Jinga has committed to dedicating 25% of its net income to similar projects in Brazil.

Better Processes

In addition to its social efforts, Jinga makes the environment a top priority. The company was awarded the “Green Seal” by the Brazilian government for its environmental policies as well as the high standard of working conditions that exist in its factories. The company’s values are also clearly considered in Jinga’s planning and business practices. Jinga shoes are 100% vegan and made in Brazil using only materials that are sourced locally from suppliers with stated socio-environmental policies. Additionally, anything left after manufacturing is sent to a facility for recycling in an effort to reduce waste. In another partnership, as part of Amanha Mais Feliz’s Happier Tomorrow Project Jinga is recognized as an environmentally responsible footwear company thanks to its lean production philosophy. So, slip on a pair of these eco-shoes and revel in your new ability to “move as nature intended”. Lacing up a great pair of shoes could really change your day, but great shoes from a good, green company could change much more than your mood.

Follow Alina on Twitter for the latest good-green stuff in sports, fitness and outdoors!

Image Credit: Alina Jesien, Jinga

Sustainable and functional isn’t necessarily boring, and yoga isn’t just about posing. Meet Plank, a company created by the bold British designer Doreen Hing whose brassy personality shines through in all of her products. Much like its maker, this luxury brand confronts the norm and challenges people to think about yoga in a new and spirited way.

Artistic

Plank yoga mats have no trouble standing out from the crowd thanks to the company’s innovative “art on mat” concept. The gallery quality images on every Plank mat make it temping to store yours on the wall as art. Forget rolling it up and stuffing your mat into a corner. A few months ago I was sent the Shag Luxe Yoga Mat which displays a nostalgic image of a retro carpet complete with downward dog hand prints. At first, I thought the image would be distracting, but after some classes I found that it was actually just the opposite. The quasi-repetitive pattern acts almost like a Magic Eye image with a very meditative effect. My Plank mat’s distinct artwork became a type of visual representation of my own quiet time; something that an uninspiring, blue foam mat could never accomplish. Like Plank’s other three original mat designs, the Shag Luxe Mat offers a witty humor and a generous perspective that puts a smile on my face every time I unroll it. As Austin Powers says, “Ooo, Behave!”

Functional

Who ever said that art can’t have utility? In this case, your Plank canvas also doubles as a yoga mat!  An amazing one at that. I really appreciated the high-quality grip layer that is actually activated by the heat and pressure from my feet and hands, which comes in really useful on my less flexible days when it feels like it’s just me vs. me. This special layer also serves to protect your artwork and keep it looking unused and bold up on your wall. The emphasis on function as well as fashion results in a mat that’s beautiful, never slippery and always the perfect firmness, as opposed to some other mats that are too squishy and make me feel off balance. Plank mats are incredibly well constructed and built for the long haul so they won’t start to fall apart after a few classes like cheap foam or PVC options.

Sustainable

Each Plank yoga mat is made from fully sustainable natural rubber. Unlike synthetic rubber, the natural stuff is sourced from renewable rubber trees. Natural rubber also requires significantly less energy to produce than its synthetic counterpart. When it’s all said and done the harvesting, processing and transporting of natural rubber consumes only about one fourth the amount of energy that synthetic rubber production does. So stretch deep and breath easy. Plank yoga mats don’t come cheap and they aren’t super light, but in my humble opinion you get more than what you pay for. I would rather bear a few extra ounces to take a little weight off the environment and spend a few extra bucks to own a mat with character that will last a lifetime, than float around with a boring, PVC-laden wafer of a mat. Proud to be a Planker.

Follow Alina on Twitter for the latest good-green stuff in sports, fitness and outdoors!

Image Credit: Plank, Alina Jesien

The new and improved version of the PUMA Suede retains all of the vital qualities of the classic, while adding a dash of sustainability, a touch of eco, and a scoop of green. Meet the PUMA Eco Suede. The newest rendition has an Eco OrthoLite ® sockliner which is made from bio-oil as well as laces that are made entirely from recycled materials. The shoe’s sole is made from a rice husk filler which is a food by-product that replaces the previously unsustainable rubber content. The new shoes are also 140 grams lighter, a small adjustment with a big impact. By reducing the weight PUMA was able to reduce their carbon emissions by 15 tons for every 1,000 pairs shipped! Plus, when it’s available in five million beautiful color combinations, what’s not to love?

In April 2010 PUMA set a new standard for the footwear industry with their “Clever Little Bag”, a revolutionary packaging concept with huge environmental pay-offs. By replacing traditional packaging with the new bag, PUMA was able to reduce paper usage by 65% and cut their carbon emissions by 10,000 tons a year! The new packaging not only has a direct impact through its manufacturing process, but also through its usage. Due to some sharp architecture, the bag replaces a box and also eliminates the need for an additional shopping bag. Brilliant!

When they aren’t revamping classics or stunning us with design genius, PUMA stays pretty busy with other environmental initiatives through their PUMA.Safe program. PUMA has big plans to reduce their “paw print” by 2015. The company aims to reduce their CO2 emissions, energy, water and waste by 25%, as well as implement a 75% reduction in paper usage. PUMA also has set a goal of making all of their shoes PVC-free by the same year. PUMA is also actively working with Greenpeace in a Detox campaign to extend PUMA’s restricted substances list for all of its suppliers.

So call back the riots and re-think the nasty emails. This classic, at least, remains unscathed by progress, unaffected by fickle tastes and un-tempted by quick and dirty creation.

Follow Alina on Twitter for the latest good-green stuff in sports, fitness and outdoors!

Image Credit: PUMA

Nothing But the Best from Revo

The Guide Sunglasses are a star member of Revo’s Eco Sustainable Style Collection, offering super high performance for any outdoor junky. One of the most innovative features is Revo’s Motion-Fit (TM) system that balances pressure points so that your glasses stay put for a perfect fit. No more hiking your glasses up your nose when you’re looking down. The quality also extends to the Serilium (TM) lenses that are constructed from a super strong polycarbonate that can withstand impact from gravel and debris. Plus, the high contrast polarization and anti-reflective coating add major value and brilliance to the world around you. These prescription-ready optics block 100% of UVB, UVA and UVC light and and are available in three practical lens tints: graphite, bronze, and water.

Sustainable Style

No matter which of the seven frame colors you choose, Revo has made sure to be as environmentally conscious as possible. Some frames offer sustainable performance through Revo Re-Use (TM) in which the frames are precision molded from 100% recycled polymer resins or nylon plastics that would otherwise become trash. Other frames offer Eco-Use (TM) in which Revo employs a strong TR-90 nylon frame material made from castor bean seeds instead of petroleum. The result is a very light and flexible frame that is 60% bio-based. Check out this movie in which Revo explains both of their eco-processes.

Follow Alina on Twitter for the latest good-green stuff in sports, fitness and outdoors!

Image Credit: Revo

First, by default, barefoot running shoes typically weigh significantly less than conventional running shoes. This allows for a proportionately lower environmental impact during manufacturing and shipping. In addition, barefoot running shoes tend to last about twice as long as other running shoes, therefore encouraging less consumption and waste.

Some of the secondary effects include a lighter impact on trails and wilderness by runners using a natural running stride. Additionally, the barefoot running phenomenon could get more people outside, initiating more concern for natural environments as well as a healthier lifestyle including better diets for people and the planet. Some companies are taking things a step further by using eco-friendly materials and processes to produce greener barefoot running shoes.

That being said, if you’re looking to dip your toes into the barefoot running phenomenon, here are my top picks for eco-barefoot running shoes:

1. Kigo

Kigo stands out by providing the running community with lightweight and affordable eco-friendly barefoot running shoes. The slip-on style Kigo Edge provides full foot coverage and a super-grip outsole and bumper for all conditions. The Edge uppers are made from CYCLEPET, which is a stretchy recycled material, while the shoe also has a recycled lining and EVA insole. Kigo uses only non-toxic dyes and water-based adhesives throughout its entire shoe line.

2. VivoBarefoot EVO

The EVO uses a removable/washable recycled memory foam insole and a 50 percent recycled antibacterial lining to keep you eco-fresh. VivoBarefoot is the creator of the first minimalist shoe with a patented, ultra-thin (4mm), puncture-resistant sole that provides both maximum sensory feedback and protection. This presents a key feature as VivoBarefoot believes that 70 percent of the brain’s information about movement comes from nerves on the soles of your feet. I hope you’re not ticklish!

The company uses recycled, locally-sourced materials as well as efficient and eco-friendly production techniques in their independently monitored ethical factories.

3. Newton Sir Issac

Or maybe I should say the Sir Issac (made by) Newton. A great transitional eco-barefoot running shoe, these have beveled heels and toes that guide you to strike the ground mid-foot as opposed to on your heal.

The Sir Issac uses an ECOPET recycled insole top cover as well as 10 percent recycled outer sole rubber. The Newton company has used innovation to create a clever 100 percent, post-consumer waste shoe box that uses soy-based inks, and 100 percent recycled yarn shoelaces and webbing.

4. Vibram FiveFingers Smartwool Classics

The Vibram FiveFingers shoes are probably some of the most visible barefoot running shoes in the market, thanks to their “gorilla/panther foot slippers” appearance as described by our local enthusiast in last week’s Barefoot Runner Interview. The Vibram Smartwool Classics allow the freedom of a barefoot with the famous protection and grip of the Vibram sole. With an sustainable smartwool upper, these eco-barefoot running shoes provide great moisture wicking and breathability even when you feel like you’re being chased by a hairdryer. The smartwool also is naturally antimicrobial and stinks less.

5. Vibram FiveFingers Treksport

Another great choice for our toe wiggling friends, the Vibram FiveFingers Treksport shoes are constructed with a tough, abrasion-resistant, coconut active carbon upper. Coconut active carbon is a renewable resource that comes from beautiful coconut trees and provides great natural breathability to keep you cool and cruisin’. Available in both Men’s and Women’s versions.

6. Sockwa Amphibian

The Sockwa Amphibian, appropriately named, allows the adventurous trail runner to transition effortlessly from land to water. The anti-slip TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) sole is perfect for wilderness environments and creates the feeling of wearing reinforced socks for ultimate ground feel. The Amphibian shoes are crushable, washable, durable and made locally in Ventura, California.

Sockwa encourages folks to “tread earth lightly,” and strives to follow their own advice through eco-efficiency in their office and production cycle, eco-responsible packaging, reduced toxicity in all of their products and manufacturing processes with minimal environmental impacts. Plus as part of the UNEP Billion Tree Campaign, Sockwa will plant a tree for every Amphibian shoe sold!

7. Soft Star RunAmoc Lite

The Soft Star RunAmocs are super lightweight, eco-barefoot running shoes with a ventilated upper using genuine sheep skin that naturally wicks away moisture and controls temperature. The wide toe box allows toes to spread out and you have the option to choose your sole between Vibram trail and street alternatives.

If you want even more customization, you can build shoes to your personal measurements and even pick from different materials to create smooth leather, vegetable-tanned leather, suede or vegan mocs! The shoes are so customizable because they are handmade in Corvallis, Oregon using leather from local tanneries that meet strict environmental standards and use no formaldehyde in the tanning process. All of the dyes that Soft Star uses are non-toxic and FDA approved, plus all of their power usage comes from wind and solar!

8. Jinga Originals

Well not exactly for running, if your looking to bring more of a eco-barefoot feel into your salsa or zumba class, check out the 100 percent vegan Jinga Originals. The dynamic TPU sole will keep you agile and, at 300g a pair, Jingas are guaranteed not to weigh you down. These vibrant shoes reflect the Brazilian vibrant culture with their style as they are 100 percent made in Brazil using factories with high standard working conditions.

All of the shoe materials are also locally sourced in Brazil and Jinga has received the “Green Seal” which is awarded by the Brazilian Government for environmental best practices. All of Jinga’s manufacturing waste is recycled and 25 percent of their profits are reinvested in Brazilian social projects for impoverished communities such as out-of-school activity programs for children.

9. Inov-8 Bare-Grip 200

Inov-8 has created something special with the Bare-Grip 200 by mastering a perfect blend of the barefoot sensation with the protection of a trail shoe. This shoe lacks a mid-sole to insure a direct power transfer from your foot to the shoe, for increased efficiency and feel.

But Inov-8 didn’t limit innovation R&D to their footwear line. The company recently set up an environmental “audit system” to evaluate their environmental impact. Inov-8 found that a whopping 65 percent of their carbon footprint could be attributed to staff travel, while freight impact came in second, accounting for 16 percent. Since these discoveries, the company has been investigating the use of 100 percent renewable energy sources, only shipping urgent samples by air, shipping direct from factories nearest to sea ports, using digital photography assessment of returned items and has decided not to provide company cars while encouraging employees to use alternative transportation methods.

10. Brooks Green Silence

I know that I’ve mentioned this shoe before, but I really can’t help myself. The Brooks’ Green Silence is a performance racing flat focused on green and speed, and is a great eco-running shoe if you’re looking to go slightly less than barefoot. The mid-sole is biodegradable and thick enough to support you in mile to marathon. Brooks also adds in some of their eco, high-abrasion rubber specifically in high wear spots for durability and minimal, light-weight design. With a lacing system that fits like a glove and minimal seams to eliminate rubbing, it’s no wonder I keep talking about them.

So whether you are an avid runner or just getting started, barefoot running shoes can provide a great medium for you to connect with your environment in a new way. And why not protect that environment while you’re at it by supporting companies that are providing responsible and sustainable options for runners looking to go natural?

Tip– When shopping for eco-barefoot running shoes always make sure to check sizing recommendations and adjustments as barefoot running shoe sizing can be slightly different than normal running shoes.

If you want to learn more take a look back at parts one and two: Barefoot Running 101, and Q&A with an Avid Barefoot Runner.

Follow Alina on Twitter for the latest good-green stuff in sports, fitness and outdoors!

Image credits: Kigo, VivoBarefoot, Newton Running, Eastern Mountain Sports, Vibram, Sockwa, Soft Star, Jinga, Inov-8, Brooks.

Mother’s Day is May 8th, so let this Mother’s Day be no exception to that feeling you get when you pick out the perfect gift for someone you care about. Surprise the mother in your life with an eco-friendly gift that’s stylish as well. The Mother’s Day garments and accessories I recommend here are high on the green credentials, fashionable and of course, mother-approved.

Loomstate’s Thalsia Dress

Slipping into an organic cotton scoop neck long sleeve dress is just one place to start. Loomstate’s Thalsia Dress can be worn to a classy brunch or backyard picnic. Contrast is created with unique embroidery and pockets add more than a hint of convenience. To be dressed up with the right accessories, check out Andean Collection’s Braided Acai Necklace below.

Andean Collection’s Braided Açaí Necklace

The Braided Açaí Necklace in coral is a great accessory for the Loomstate Thalsia Dress, but, is also sure to be used to dress up or worn casually with great outfits alike (it even matches the Mallorca T-shirt Dressbelow!). Like other Andean Collection accessories, the açaí seeds used are naturally dyed and fair trade from Ecuador.

Stewart + Brown’s Mallorca T-shirt Dress

For another perfect slip-on-and-go for mom, the Mallorca T-shirt Dress claims to be suitable for an ocean sail or picnic. Not to mention, it features extremely comfortable 100 percent organic cotton and Stewart + Brown’sreputation for style is not missed. A smart modern look that can be pulled together with the perfect eco-friendly footwear — might I suggest Payless Shoes’ Bouquet Gladiator Sandal in brown!

Zoe&Zac’s Bouquet Gladiator Sandal

This gladiator sandal by zoe&zac is a practical and stylish eco find. The faux leather upper is lined with organic cotton, and the adjustable ankle strap features nickel-free buckles that are  hypoallergenic. And if brown isn’t her style, try pairing the black gladiator sandal with Loomstate’s Thalsia Dress above.

Hessnatur Organic Cotton Top

I stumbled upon a shirt and dress from Hessnatur in two great prints ideal for an eco mom. The first print is Hessnatur’s Organic Cotton Top in almond. It features a light airy style with a feminine feel.

Hessnatur also highlights just how eco-friendly their cotton is, stating: ”The organic cotton is more than eco-friendly: coming from our groundbreaking fair trade project in Burkina Faso, it helps to create hope and better lives in all participating communities.”

Hessnatur Organic Cotton Dress

Second, the Organic Cotton Dressin tomato print is a simple, easy to wear slip-on dress. It’s 100 percent organic cotton is also from a certified organic farm in Burkina Faso. That’s some feel good, and feel good style in both senses.

Blue Canoe Yoga Pant C400

To round out my Mother’s Day eco-friendly style is an article of clothing that should be, if not already, a staple in every mom’s closet. You guessed it, a super-eco and comfy pair of yoga pants. Blue Canoe’s Yoga Pant C400 fit the bill! With the added comfort of a fold over waistband and flared knee, Blue Canoe also weaves in 90 percent organic cotton and 10 percent spandex. So, whether heading from yoga to the market or simply lounging, these pants will not let you down.

Image credits: Loomstate, Andean Collection, Stewart + Brown,Payless Shoesource, Hessnatur, Blue Canoe.

By hitting the trail this spring, you might be doing yourself a mental favor in addition to the physical ones. A recent study was conducted by the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry in the UK in which the college performed trials involving 833 adults and found that  exercising in natural environments could have a multitude of beneficial effects over working out indoors.

If you do decide to bundle up and get some fresh air, you may experience, “greater feelings of revitalization and positive engagement, decreases in tension, confusion, anger and depression, and increased energy,” according to the study published in the research journal Environmental Science and Technology in February. 

The Importance of Layers

People often dress too warmly only to find that they are overheating during exercise and then get quickly chilled as their sweat starts to evaporate and dry. One of the tricks to exercising outside is to properly regulate your temperature. By dressing in layers you can easily adjust your clothing to your changing needs and take off layers as you begin to work and put them back on as needed.

For my layering scheme, I am all about sustainable merino wool. Fine-cut merino wool is itch-free and has a great warmth-to-weight ratio. The finely crimped fibers create millions of air pockets to keep you incredibly warm without the bulk. Merino also does a great job of removing sweat from your skin, keeping you warm, dry and smelling great.

For an eco-friendly option try RedRam apparel. An offshoot of the Icebreaker brand, RedRam and Icebreaker are centered around renewable, biodegradable and ethically-sourced merino wool. Merino wool is a renewable resource using water, grass and sunshine as the raw inputs, and also takes considerably less energy to process than most other fibers.

Icebreaker and RedRam work directly with only 140 growers most of which are located in the beautiful Southern Alps of New Zealand. This small supply chain allows the company to create strong relationships with the growers and also enforce their strict animal welfare requirements.

RedRam Merino Short Sleeve Top

For a perfect base layer check out the RedRam’s Merino short sleeve top. A classic shirt with flat lock stitching for comfort and a flattering fit on both men and women.

RedRam Merino Long Sleeve Top

On chilly mornings you may need some more base layer coverage. Reach for the RedRam women’s and men’s long sleeve top. This piece provides a little bit more warmth while staying lightweight and easy to layer. Plus, the women’s version sports a very attractive scoop neck.

RedRam Merino Cami

And for even more layering options RedRam also offers a beautiful Cami for the ladies, which goes great under anything to give you an extra toasty core.

What more could you want from your go-to layering system? The perfect body temperature can make the difference between a refreshing morning of natural invigoration and a mind numbing slog on a stair stepper.

Image credits: MorgueFile, RedRam.

Izzit has rounded up 10 picks for green NCAA gear and goods to help see you through the month in style.

1. Fair Trade Sports Eco-Basketball

The Fair Trade Sports Eco-Basketball is just like the one the pros use but this ball is certified Fair Trade, vegan and eco-certified to bring your equipment to the next level.

2. Nike Sideline Performance Polo

For ultimate, “dri-FIT” comfort, the Nike Sideline Performance Polo offers quality embroidery and a modern look to help you support your favorite school in 100 percent recycled polyester style.

3. NCAA Reusable Tote Bag

Make sure that you have everything that you need to bring to the party with a NCAA reusable tote, with a high quality weave logo showcase your loyalties.

4. Nike Vintage Organic T-Shirt

Get nostalgic with a 100 percent certified organic tee from Nike, sporting a vintage wash and the only team that matters to you.

5. Nike Organic Team Hoody

One for the ladies wanting to stand out in the crowd, a slim cut team hoody made with 100 percent organic cotton should do the trick.

6. Team Logo Bamboo Cutting Board

This year serve your pigs-in-a-blanket and Colby Jack on an eco-friendly bamboo cutting board that reveals your team’s logo as treats are snatched off of it.

7. Recycled Paper Team Journal

Keep your Final Four dreams alive in this recycled paper team journal. This note book uses soy-based inks and elegantly displays your team on an aluminum logo plate.

8. Chip & Dip Team Plate

Ditch the wasteful paper serving dishes at your party and check out this 2-in-1 chip and dip plate that you can reuse year after year.

9. Team Logo Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Bring your own beverage and keep it cold with a team logo stainless steel water bottle, complete with removable carabiner clip.

10. Bio-degradable Team Coasters

Protect the Earth and your furniture with bio-degradable team coasters made from recycled wood pulp.

So get your bracket filled out and who knows, maybe all of your eco-karma will help your team end up in Houston this year.

Image credits: NCAA, Amazon, Football Fanatics.

When picking out an insulated vest this winter, you have several choices to make. An easy one is the decision to purchase an environmentally friendly vest, which turns out to be pretty easy with all of the great options available. Another assessment needed is whether PrimaLoft® synthetic or down insulation offers the benefits that you are looking for.

Plain and simple, down is pretty much the warmest insulation out there. It also possesses an exceptionally high warmth-to-weight ratio. This means that down remains very warm while being very lightweight and compressible. You can also get the amount of insulation that you need by purchasing something with anywhere from 450-fill-power down to 900-fill-power, 900-fill-power being the warmest. Down is also incredibly durable, and with proper care, it can literally last a lifetime.

On the other hand, PrimaLoft® synthetic insulation equates to about the 500- to 550-fill-power range in down. Nevertheless, PrimaLoft® will keep you much warmer than down in soggy conditions as it retains much of its thermal performance when wet. PrimaLoft® also tends to be less puffy than down because it uses a greater number of smaller fibers to trap more air spaces, but is still very lightweight and compressible. PrimaLoft® is also a great choice for people who may be allergic to goose down.

There really is no “right” answer; it all depends on what benefits you are looking for. When the verdict is in, take a look at the following PrimaLoft® and down insulation alternatives. All vests are made with a recycled polyester shell to warm your body and your soul.

Primaloft® Insulation:

The North Face Animagi Vest

Ingenious name aside, this vest is great for running or cross country skiing with built-in stretch side panels to allow movement. Also in women’s styles.

REI Revelcloud Vest

This vest was designed to work well with backpacks by eliminating the shoulder seems that can cause discomfort with a pack. Plus it comes with its own convenient stuff sack. Also in women’s styles.

Patagonia Nano Puff Vest

The Nano Puff is made with recycled materials but it can also be recycled at the end of its life through Patagonia’s Common Threads Program. This vest stuffs into its own chest pocket and offers an internal draft flap and cord to keep out the cold. Also in women’s styles.

Down Insulation:

Isis Whisper Hoddie Down Vest

This vest is only available in a women’s model but that’s probably for the best as the slim cut may not be so flattering on a guy. The Whisper Uses 650-fill-power goose down to keep you warm and has an attached, insulated hood which is an amazing addition to both style and function.

Patagonia Down Sweater

For colder days, break out this Down Sweater vest made with quality 800-fill-power goose down guaranteed to keep you balmy. Plus, the two zippered hand warmer pockets work wonders to keep you digits toasty. Also in women’s styles.

Eastern Mountain Sports Glacier Down Vest

A great all around vest, made with 650-fill-power goose down for warmth and a well designed drop tail hem to keep out those chilly wind gusts. Also in women’s styles.

The North Face Aconcagua Vest

This one is a great choice when you need less warmth and want less bulk. The 550-fill-power goose down is the perfect amount for chilly days spent outside exercising. Also in women’s styles.

Outdoor Research Aria Down Vest

Another one just for the ladies, the stylish swirled quilting of the Aira Vest keeps the 650-fill-power goose down in place. The single-pull hood is easy to deal with and really helps bump up the warmth rating.

Whether you choose PrimaLoft® or down, there is no need to ever be cold again with one of these insulated eco-vests!

Image credits: The North Face, REI, Patagonia.