Outerknown is a brand that has set itself apart in the fashion industry with its impressive reputation. Their quality, sustainability and customer service make them a leading contender in the market. But there are still questions that arise about whether or not this company is really worth investing in.
Founded by pro-surfer Kelly Slater and designer John Moore, Outerknown is a brand that has been committed to fashion that is environmentally friendly and socially conscious since its launch in 2015. However, with an ever-increasing number of fashion brands boasting of their eco-friendly qualities, it can be hard to discern who is truly making a difference. How does Outerknown fit into this landscape? Is it a brand that truly holds up to its promises?
If you’re looking to update your wardrobe with quality pieces while making ethical choices, you’ll want to stick around for this discussion. We will delve deeper into the brand, providing an honest, in-depth review of its qualities, values, and reputation. With an open mind, let’s examine whether Outerknown is truly a brand that lives up to its promise and whether it’s worth investing in.
Outerknown Brand Background
Outerknown is a California-based clothing brand that was founded in 2015 by surf legend Kelly Slater and acclaimed menswear designer John Moore. The brand focuses on providing sustainable and ethically-made clothing for men and women, using environmentally friendly materials and manufacturing processes.
- Outerknown takes a holistic approach to sustainability, considering every aspect of the production process from raw materials to end-of-life disposal.
- The brand uses materials such as organic cotton, recycled nylon, and recycled polyester to create its clothing.
- Outerknown also partners with organizations such as the Fair Labor Association and the Better Cotton Initiative to ensure that its products are made in safe and fair working conditions.
Outerknown’s commitment to sustainability and ethical production has earned the brand a loyal following of environmentally conscious consumers. While its products are more expensive than fast fashion alternatives, the brand prides itself on creating high-quality clothing that is designed to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements and ultimately minimizing its environmental impact.
Overall, Outerknown is a brand that is committed to making a positive impact on both people and the planet. Its sustainability efforts and attention to ethical production set it apart from many other clothing brands, making it a great choice for consumers who prioritize these values.
| Founded | 2015 |
|---|---|
| Founders | Kelly Slater John Moore |
| Headquarters | Culver City, California |
Ethical and Sustainable Practices
At Outerknown, ethics and sustainability are at the forefront of their brand. Founded by surfing legend Kelly Slater, the company prides itself on being transparent about its mission to create clothing that is both stylish and environmentally responsible.
One of the main ways Outerknown ensures ethical and sustainable practices is through their use of sustainable materials. They use materials such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, and Econyl, a recycled nylon. They also use Tencel, a fabric that is derived from sustainably grown eucalyptus trees and is known for its softness and breathability.
Another way Outerknown practices sustainability is through their use of responsible manufacturing processes. They partner with sustainable factories around the world, ensuring fair labor practices and safe working conditions for all employees.
What Makes Outerknown a Good Brand for Sustainability
- They use sustainable materials such as organic cotton, recycled polyester and Econyl, a recycled nylon.
- They partner with sustainable factories that practice fair labor and safe working conditions for employees.
- They are transparent about their mission to create clothing that is both stylish and environmentally responsible.
The Bluesign® System
Outerknown is also committed to using the Bluesign® system, a program that aims to eliminate harmful substances from the manufacturing process. This includes monitoring and reducing the use of chemicals, wastewater treatment, and air emissions. By using the Bluesign® system, Outerknown ensures that their clothing is made using responsible and sustainable practices.
In addition, Outerknown utilizes the Higg Index, a tool that measures the social and environmental impact of a product’s entire lifecycle – from material sourcing to disposal.
Conclusion
Overall, Outerknown is dedicated to doing its part in creating a more sustainable world through ethical and sustainable practices. By using sustainable materials, working with responsible factories, and utilizing systems such as Bluesign® and the Higg Index, they are setting a standard for other clothing brands to follow in regards to environmental responsibility. So not only is Outerknown a good brand for sustainability, but it’s also a brand that we can be proud to support.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Uses sustainable materials | Higher price point than fast fashion |
| Committed to ethical and responsible manufacturing processes | Limited style options |
| Transparent about their mission and practices |
Although Outerknown may have a higher price point than fast fashion brands, it is important to recognize the value in investing in items that are sustainable, responsibly made, and will last for a long time. By supporting Outerknown, we are not only making a statement about what we value in our clothing, but we are also contributing to the health and wellbeing of our planet.
Environmental Initiatives
Outerknown is a brand that takes sustainability seriously. It is a part of their core values and they ensure that the environment is always a priority in all their activities. Here are some of the environmental initiatives that Outerknown is involved in:
- 1% for the Planet: As a member of this organization, Outerknown pledges to donate 1% of their revenue to environmental organizations that address issues such as climate change, biodiversity, and clean water.
- Eco-innovative Materials: Outerknown is committed to using materials that are sustainable and eco-friendly. They use fabrics made from organic cotton, hemp, recycled polyester, and linen. They also use Fair Trade Certified products whenever possible.
- Bluesign Certified: The brand ensures that their production processes meet the high environmental standards set by the Bluesign Certification. They work with Bluesign certified mills that use water and energy efficiently and reduce harmful chemical usage.
Outerknown is always looking for new ways to minimize their impact on the planet. They are constantly researching new materials, production processes, and suppliers who share their vision of sustainability. They are also open about their progress, sharing their environmental targets and achievements on their website.
Sustainable Packaging
Outerknown is also dedicated to reducing their environmental footprint when it comes to packaging. They have implemented several initiatives to achieve this:
They utilize recycled paper that is fully biodegradable and compostable to print all their tags and shoulder labels.
They also use recycled polybags for packaging their products instead of virgin plastic bags. All outer boxes are made of recycled paper and are fully recyclable.
| Materials Used for Outerknown Packaging | Environmental Benefit |
|---|---|
| Recycled paper tags and labels | Biodegradable and compostable |
| Recycled polybags | Reduces the need for virgin plastic bags |
| Recycled paper outer boxes | Fully recyclable |
Outerknown’s sustainable packaging initiatives have reduced the amount of waste generated as a result of their activities. It’s a small step, but every little bit counts towards a sustainable future.
Quality of Materials Used
Outerknown is a brand that prides itself on sustainable and ethical practices, including their use of materials. Below are some of the main materials used in their clothing:
- Organic Cotton: Outerknown uses organic cotton in many of their products. This type of cotton is grown without the use of harmful pesticides or chemicals, making it a more sustainable and eco-friendly option.
- Recycled Polyester: Outerknown also uses recycled polyester in some of their clothing. This material is made from recycled plastic bottles, reducing waste and giving new life to materials that might otherwise end up in landfills.
- TENCEL® Lyocell: TENCEL® Lyocell is another sustainable material used by Outerknown. It is made from renewable wood sources and is biodegradable, making it a more eco-friendly option than traditional fabrics.
Overall, Outerknown’s commitment to using sustainable materials is a major selling point for the brand. Not only do they use materials that are better for the environment, but they also prioritize ethical labor practices and fair wages for their workers.
In addition to their sustainable materials, Outerknown also offers a Responsible Products section on their website, featuring items made from upcycled materials or repurposed fabrics.
| Material | Sustainability |
|---|---|
| Organic Cotton | Eco-friendly and sustainable |
| Recycled Polyester | Reduces waste and repurposes materials |
| TENCEL® Lyocell | Sustainable and biodegradable |
Overall, Outerknown’s use of quality, sustainable materials is just one of the many reasons why the brand is worth investing in. They are committed to making a positive impact on the environment and the fashion industry as a whole, while still producing stylish and comfortable clothing that customers love.
Brand Collaborations
Outerknown has partnered with numerous brands and individuals to create unique and sustainable collections. These collaborations have helped to bring more attention to the brand, while also allowing them to expand their reach and offer new products to their customers.
- Levi’s – Outerknown has collaborated with Levi’s to create a collection of jeans made from a combination of organic cotton and recycled denim. This collaboration highlights both brands’ commitment to sustainability and ethical manufacturing.
- The Ocean Foundation – Outerknown has teamed up with The Ocean Foundation to raise awareness about the importance of ocean conservation. The brand donates a portion of their sales to support the foundation’s mission.
- Nordstrom – Outerknown partnered with Nordstrom to launch an exclusive collection of swimwear made from Econyl, a fabric made from recycled fishing nets and other nylon waste.
These collaborations have not only helped Outerknown to create unique and innovative products, but they have also allowed the brand to partner with likeminded companies and organizations to promote sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices.
| Collaboration Partner | Collection Name | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Levi’s | WellThread x Outerknown | Jeans made from organic cotton and recycled denim |
| The Ocean Foundation | The Blue Ocean Tee | T-shirt made from 100% organic cotton, featuring artwork by a marine conservationist |
| Nordstrom | Exclusive Swim Collection | Swimwear made from Econyl, a fabric made from recycled fishing nets and other nylon waste |
Overall, Outerknown’s collaborations demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices. These partnerships not only help to bring attention to the brand, but they also allow them to offer unique, eco-friendly products to their customers.
Customer reviews and feedback
Outerknown’s commitment to sustainability and ethical fashion has earned them numerous positive customer reviews and feedback. Customers appreciate the brand’s efforts to reduce their environmental footprint and support fair labor practices.
- Many customers have praised the quality of Outerknown’s clothing, with some stating that the pieces are worth the investment due to their durability and timeless style.
- Others have commended the brand’s transparency regarding their supply chain and manufacturing practices, giving them confidence in their purchases.
- Several customers have also mentioned their satisfaction with the fit and comfort of the clothing, highlighting the brand’s attention to detail in this aspect.
Outerknown’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in their responsive customer service. The brand regularly engages with customers on social media and promptly addresses any inquiries or issues raised.
Overall, Outerknown’s positive customer reviews and feedback reflect the brand’s dedication to sustainability and ethical practices, while also providing high-quality and stylish clothing.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Eco-friendly and sustainable | Higher price point |
| Transparent supply chain and manufacturing practices | Limited sizing options |
| High-quality and long-lasting clothing | Some items may require special care |
The table above highlights some of the pros and cons of Outerknown as reported by customers. While the brand’s higher price point may be a downside for some, many customers feel that the investment is worth it for the quality and sustainability of their clothing. Additionally, while sizing options may be limited, Outerknown offers a range of fits to accommodate different body types. Overall, customer reviews and feedback suggest that Outerknown is a strong choice for those seeking ethical and sustainable fashion.
Pricing and Affordability
When it comes to sustainable fashion, one concern that often arises is the cost. Fortunately, Outerknown has made it a priority to offer quality clothing at fair prices. The brand’s pricing strategy is centered around transparency and fair labor practices, ensuring that both the customer and the worker are treated fairly.
- Outerknown uses sustainable materials and environmentally-friendly production methods, but that doesn’t mean their clothes are out of reach for most consumers. T-shirts, for example, range from $38 to $68, while jeans range from $148 to $198. These prices are in line with other premium sustainable clothing brands, making it more accessible to an average shopper.
- Outerknown’s transparent pricing, which breaks down the cost of production, materials, and retail pricing, provide customers with a clear picture of where their money is going. While some brands have hidden costs associated with their supply chain, Outerknown is upfront about their pricing, which builds trust and a sense of authenticity with its customers.
- The brand also offers a “Pay What’s Fair” program, which gives customers the option to choose what they want to pay. This encourages consumers to choose a price that is both affordable for them, while also fair for the workers who made the clothing.
Overall, Outerknown has demonstrated a commitment to making sustainable clothing accessible and affordable. Their approach to pricing is centered around transparency, consumer trust, and ethical labor practices. If you are looking to invest in quality, sustainable fashion without breaking the bank, Outerknown is definitely a brand worth considering.
Brand Presence and Popularity
Outerknown is a relatively new brand, having been established in 2015. Despite being a newbie in the industry, the brand has made significant strides in establishing its presence and popularity in the market. The following are some of the factors that contribute to Outerknown’s brand presence and popularity:
- Endorsements and Collaborations: Outerknown boasts of collaborations with some of the biggest names in the fashion and celebrity world. The brand has collaborated with the likes of Breitling, Levi’s, and Kelly Slater, a renowned surfer. Such partnerships have helped boost the brand’s profile and attract new customers.
- Sustainable and Ethical Production: Outerknown is a brand that prides itself on sustainable and ethical production. The company uses materials that are environmentally friendly and ensures that its production processes are labor-friendly. Such a focus resonates with modern-day consumers who prioritize sustainability and ethics, hence boosting the brand’s popularity.
- Social Media Presence: Social media plays a significant role in shaping brand presence and popularity. Outerknown has capitalized on social media by creating a vibrant online presence. The brand has active profiles on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, where it shares its brand story, engages with followers, and promotes its products.
Overall, Outerknown’s brand presence and popularity are on a positive trajectory, and the brand’s focus on sustainability, ethics, and collaborations is attracting new customers and cementing its position as a reputable brand in the market.
Social media marketing strategies
As a relatively new brand in the apparel industry, Outerknown has been heavily relying on social media marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and engage with customers. Here are some of the social media marketing strategies that Outerknown has been using:
- Consistency: Outerknown maintains a consistent brand image across all social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. This means using the same profile picture, cover photo, bio, and messaging on all platforms.
- Visuals: As a clothing brand, Outerknown understands the importance of strong visuals. Their Instagram feed, for example, features a mix of product shots, lifestyle imagery, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the brand’s creative process.
- User-generated content: Outerknown actively encourages its social media followers to share photos of themselves wearing the brand’s clothes. This not only helps spread brand awareness but also creates a sense of community around the brand.
Aside from these strategies, Outerknown also partners with social media influencers to promote its clothing. By teaming up with fashion bloggers and style influencers, Outerknown is able to tap into new audiences and gain credibility among fashion-conscious consumers.
Overall, Outerknown’s social media marketing strategies have played an important role in establishing the brand as a sustainable fashion leader. With a focus on consistency, visuals, and user-generated content, Outerknown has been able to connect with customers and build a loyal following on social media.
Comparison with Other Sustainable Fashion Brands
Outerknown is a top sustainable fashion brand that has gained a lot of attention from people looking for eco-friendly and ethically-made clothing. However, it is not the only brand that focuses on sustainable fashion. Today, there are many sustainable clothing brands that are working to reduce the negative impact of the fashion industry on the environment and people.
- Patagonia: A well-known brand in the sustainable fashion industry, Patagonia is committed to using recycled and environmentally friendly materials to make their clothing. They are also focused on supporting workers’ rights and have developed a traceable down standard to ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Eileen Fisher: Eileen Fisher is a luxury sustainable fashion brand that is dedicated to using organic and fair-trade materials. They also have programs in place to encourage recycling, reduce waste, and use renewable energy.
- People Tree: This UK-based brand is committed to fair-trade and environmentally friendly production practices. They use organic cotton and other materials to make their clothing and work with fair-trade producers to ensure ethical working conditions for their workers.
These are just a few examples of the many sustainable fashion brands that are making a positive impact on the fashion industry. While Outerknown is a great brand, it’s important to consider all of your options when choosing to support sustainable fashion.
Here’s a comparison table of Outerknown with two other sustainable fashion brands:
| Brand | Materials Used | Production Practices | Impact Initiatives |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outerknown | Organic cotton, recycled polyester, plant-based fibers | Safe and fair working conditions for workers, uses low-waste and renewable energy practices | 1% for the Planet member, partners with Ocean Conservancy to reduce plastic pollution in the ocean |
| Patagonia | Recycled materials, organic cotton, traceable down and wool | Uses fair-trade practices, works with factories that prioritize sustainability and worker well-being | 1% for the Planet member, partners with organizations to protect the environment and support workers’ rights |
| Eileen Fisher | Organic cotton, fair-trade silk and wool, recycled polyester and nylon | Reduces waste through recycling, uses renewable energy and sustainable packaging | Eco-Innovation program to reduce environmental impact, supports fair labor practices and worker well-being |
As you can see, each of these brands stands out in different ways when it comes to their materials, production practices, and impact initiatives. It’s important to do your own research when choosing sustainable fashion brands to ensure that their values align with yours.
Is Outerknown a Good Brand: FAQs
1. Is Outerknown eco-friendly?
Yes, Outerknown is famous for its sustainable and ethical practices in the industry. They use premium eco-friendly materials for their clothing that includes organic cotton, recycled polyester, and regenerated nylon.
2. What type of clothing does Outerknown offer?
Outerknown offers a variety of clothing for men and women including jackets, shirts, pants, sweaters, and swimwear. They also offer accessories like hats, beanies, and bags.
3. How does Outerknown offer transparency in its manufacturing process?
Outerknown gives full transparency in their manufacturing process by sharing all the information on its website. They share information about the factory names, locations, and the environmental and social effects of their products.
4. Is the quality of Outerknown’s clothing good?
Outerknown believes in making premium quality clothing by using high-quality materials that are durable and comfortable. Their clothing is designed to last long so you can enjoy it for years to come.
5. Is Outerknown worth the price?
While Outerknown’s clothing may seem expensive compared to other brands, it is worth the price as it is sustainable, high-quality, and ethically made. You’re not just paying for the product but also for the positive impact it has on the environment and the lives of workers in the supply chain.
6. How does Outerknown give back to the community?
Outerknown has partnered with different organizations to give back to the community. They have supported organizations like Ocean Conservancy, Surfrider Foundation, and the Rainforest Foundation that help to protect the planet.
7. Does Outerknown offer international shipping?
Yes, Outerknown offers international shipping, but the shipping time and fees vary depending on the country. You can visit their website to know more about their international shipping policies.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading this article about “Is Outerknown a good brand”. Outerknown is not just a brand but a way of life. Their commitment to sustainability, transparency, and ethics make them stand out in the fashion industry. By choosing Outerknown, you are not only making a fashion statement but also contributing to a positive impact on our planet. Keep visiting our website for more informative articles about your favorite brands.