Today, Patagonia launched its first-ever workwear line. The collection includes pants, shirts, overalls, jackets and hats — many of which highlight Patagonia’s growing interest in sustainable hemp. The Iron Forge Hemp Canvas Double Knee Pants, a centerpiece of the collection, are made with a blend of 55 percent industrial hemp, 27 percent recycled polyester and 18 percent organic cotton, whereas Carhartt’s work pants typically use 100 percent duck cotton. Industrial hemp, according to Patagonia, is not only more sustainable than industrial cotton, but 25 percent more abrasion-resistant. The addition of polyester and organic cotton to the blend adds a softer, more broken-in feel. Nothing in the new collection is more than $200, thanks to a direct-to-consumer model. The items are only available in select Patagonia stores and on Patagonia’s website.
