Passenger Clothing: Designed to Wander, Made to Roam
Passenger Clothing's mission statement perfectly encapsulates the feeling I chase - meaningful escapism. Whether it's a weekend backpacking trip or a day hike exploring a new trail, Passenger's commitment to creating gear with a purpose resonates with my desire to get outside and connect with nature. But beyond the inspirational messaging, how does this translate into their actual products? I recently put a selection of their recycled apparel to the test, and here's my breakdown.
Ashland Down Recycled Vest - Black ($174.95):
The Ashland Down Recycled Vest has become one of my favorite layering pieces. Its lightweight and compressible design make it ideal for travel or unexpected weather changes. The 80/20 responsibly sourced down fill offers exceptional warmth without added bulk, while the 100% recycled polyester shell with a PFC-free water-resistant coating keeps me dry in light drizzle but nothing more intense. The vest packs compactly into its inside pocket, making it a convenient travel companion.
Despite not being the most windproof option, it's perfect for layering on chilly mornings or evenings. Consider being cautious about snags, as the shell, though durable, may not be as rugged as other technical shell fabrics. I appreciate the high-quality feel of the shell and the adjustable hem that allows for a snug fit.
Overall, I highly recommend this sustainable and versatile vest to anyone seeking stylish and functional outdoor apparel.
Oceanic Recycled Insulated 1/2 Zip Jacket - Tidal Blue/Burnt Orange ($149.95):
The Oceanic Recycled Insulated 1/2 Zip Jacket has quickly become a staple in my outdoor wardrobe. Its versatility, comfort, and sustainable design make it an excellent choice for a variety of activities.
The recycled polyester ripstop fabric is surprisingly durable and water-resistant, perfect for those unexpected rain showers. The 80g recycled polyester insulation provides ample warmth without being overly bulky. The kangaroo pouch is a fantastic addition, providing a cozy place to warm my hands and stash small essentials.
The side zip is a clever design feature that makes it easy to put on and take off, and it prevents any discomfort when sitting down.
I'm also a big fan of the turtle fur neck and chin, which is incredibly soft and comfortable.
The jacket packs down impressively small into its own pillow pouch, making it perfect for travel.
While the wrist cuffs can feel a bit tight at times, the overall fit is comfortable and true to size. The colorway has even received a few compliments, proving that this jacket is as stylish as it is functional.
The only minor drawback I've noticed is that the zipper can sometimes snag, but it hasn't been a major issue. Overall, this jacket is a great option for anyone looking for a sustainable, stylish, and functional piece of outdoor apparel.
Solitude Recycled Polartec® Pant - Black ($99.95):
As luck would have it, Boulder welcomed some 20*F weather in early November, so I could properly test the Solitude Recycled Polartec® Legging, which is a nice addition for chilly outdoor adventures. Made from a blend of 84% recycled polyester and 16% elastane Polartec® Power Stretch® fabric, these leggings offer excellent support and a full range of motion. Whether I was scrambling up rocks or navigating uneven terrain, the leggings moved with me, never feeling restrictive.
The soft brushed back fabric was really soft and comfortable, and the thickness kept me warm on those chilly mornings. The low-profile drawcord ensured a secure, comfortable fit. The leggings ride high on the waist with a comfortable wraparound, providing a secure fit without any chafing. These leggings are true to size and can even be worn on their own or layered under hiking pants for extra warmth.
Alpine Recycled Base Layer LS T-Shirt - Black/Grey ($49.95):
The Alpine Recycled Base Layer LS T-Shirt has become a nice go-to in my running and hiking wardrobe, especially during Boulder's wide ranging fall weather. The brushed back fabric feels soft against my skin, providing warmth as a thicker piece for my colder running days. I've worn it on numerous runs, and the Polygiene StayFresh™ treatment lives up to its name, staying fresh even after intense workouts. My wife can attest too :)
The Scotchgard™ Moisture Wicking Treatment seems to pull sweat away from the body, which is especially important given the shirt is heavier than most of my other running shirts.
In addition, the thumbholes are a thoughtful addition, providing extra warmth on chilly mornings.
The fit is true to size, and the long-sleeve design offers versatility for varying weather conditions. Whether I'm tackling a challenging hike or going for a brisk run, this base layer is a solid, thicker base layer for any active person.
Overall Impressions:
Passenger Clothing has impressed me with their commitment to sustainability and their well-designed, functional outdoor apparel. From using recycled materials to partnering with organizations like The Rainforest Trust and Trees for the Future, Passenger is making a conscious effort to minimize their environmental impact. Knowing that my outdoor gear choices are aligned with responsible practices makes the adventures even more meaningful.
Each piece I tested, from the Ashland Down Recycled Vest to the Alpine Recycled Base Layer, felt well-made and offered the technical features I look for in running and outdoor gear. The true-to-size fit and comfortable designs make them a pleasure to wear. If you're looking for outdoor apparel that is built to roam and kind to the planet, Passenger Clothing is definitely a brand worth checking out.
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John Tribbia (5' 6", 130lbs) is a former sponsored mountain/trail runner who has run with La Sportiva, Brooks/Fleet Feet, Pearl Izumi, and Salomon. Even though he competes less frequently these days, you can still find John enjoying the daily grind of running on any surface, though his favorite terrain is 30-40% grade climbs. He has won races such as America's Uphill, Imogene Pass Run, and the US Skyrunner Vertical Kilometer Series; and he's held several FKTs on several iconic mountains in Boulder, Colorado and Salt Lake City, Utah. If you follow him on Strava, you'll notice he runs at varying paces between 5 minutes/mile to 12 minutes/mile before the break of dawn almost every day.
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