Labo Mono is a quality brand of waterproof jackets, with the outer shell made from recycled plastic bottles. In a wide array of designs and styles, each one is ethically crafted, with many clever features and designed to shrug off a downpour using fluorocarbon-free waterproofing, in a more breathable fabric.
Rainwear is tricky as you need a water-resistant lining (or you will get soaked!) But PFC is a man-made chemical (also used in non-stick pans and fire extinguishers) the leaches into our waters during production, even finding their way into glaciers and stomachs of polar bears. This brand advises not to launder but to spot-clean (or gently hand-wash stains in Guppyfriend’s sink filter that catches any synthetic fibres for safe disposal). These jackets are designed to wipe-clean unless really dirty, so a good option.
It rains (a lot!) in England, due to the unique atmospheric pressure, so we often get four seasons in one day. Northwest England gets far more rain than drier counties like Norfolk and Suffolk, and although the south coast gets a lot of rain, sunny temperatures means pavements often dry up in hours. Unlike Cumbria!
If caught in a thunderstorm, keep a safe distance from trees and metal objects (umbrellas, golf clubs, motorbikes, wheelchairs, tent poles). Stay inside cars (fabric tops could catch fire, if struck). If exposed, squat close to the ground with hands on knees, and tuck head between them, touching as little of the ground with your body (don’t lie down). If your hand stands on end, drop to the above position immediately.
These jackets are bold and colourful, yet still practical and lightweight, for your city or mountain adventures. Each jacket is made from 30 recycled plastic bottles (ethically in China, by workers paid a living wage) along with a UK repair service (and old jackets can be upcycled at end of life). Built to protect against heavy rain (we’re talking to you, if you live in Cumbria!), the jackets have fully-taped seams to seal and breathability with 2 pit zips for ventilation. The 2-hip feature adapts to your body shape, and the fabric has increased abrasion resistance.
Rather than toxic PFC coating, these jackets use BIONIC-FINISH® ECO alternative, and when not in use, just pack into its own bag, with the straps sewn inside your pocket. When you wear it, the jacket has secure roomy pockets plus invisible pockets (for snacks!) and a stowaway hood with 3 adjustment points, to fit over bike helmets. The jacket also features a semi-flexible hood peak and toggle-reflective cuffs for evening walks and bike rides.
