Weathering the Storm: The Best Sustainable Raincoats
Many raincoats are coated with toxic chemicals. But there are versions on sale that are still showerproof and waterproof, without these ‘forever chemicals’ that leach into rivers and seas, harming marine wildlife.
As they are still made from synthetic materials, launder them in a microfiber filter.
Why choose sustainable rainwear?
Perfluorochemicals (PFCS) are designed to make water bead off fabric. But each time it rains, these beads leach into rivers, soil and wildlife. There are alternative coatings that keep you dry, without contaminating ecosystems.
Choosing virgin polyester and nylon also supports the oil industry, which fuels climate change and wars. Many eco raincoats use instead recycled plastics (still need microfiber filters to wash them) but better than new. We don’t yet have hemp raincoats!
A quality coat also lasts for years, without becoming more rubbish on landfills. And many offer lifestime repair services. Many cheap raincoats are impossible to recycle, due to a mix of materials from metal toggles to glue to mesh linings and plastic outers. So end up on landfills or in incinerators.
The best raincoats are made using monopolymer construction, so everything can be melted down into a new one, at end of life.
