New Zealand-based outerwear brand Icebreaker has joined forces with Timberland to create a collaboration that seamlessly combines high performance with a low environmental impact. This special capsule collection not only pays homage to their shared heritage in the outdoor realm but also introduces a design aesthetic perfectly suited for everyday wear.
With five thoughtfully crafted pieces for both men and women—including a T-shirt, jacket, chino shorts, men's polo, and women's tank top—the collection effortlessly bridges the gap between urban and natural environments.
Committing to Regenerative Wool and Ethical Sourcing Enhances the Collection's Performance and Sustainability
Innovative performance materials take center stage in this collaboration. The ZoneKnit tee, made from a blend of merino wool and Tencel fabric, incorporates ventilated mesh panels for enhanced breathability. The merino cotton jacket showcases an abrasion-resistant blend of wool and cotton canvas, while the terry chino shorts feature 100% merino wool baby terry fabric.
Icebreaker, renowned for its regenerative wool sweaters, jackets, and innerwear sourced from New Zealand farms, was acquired by VF Corp, the parent company of Timberland, in 2017. More than 80 percent of Icebreaker's wool is sourced from the region, providing numerous performance benefits for outdoor apparel, including thermoregulation, odor control, and UV protection.
Icebreaker was also among the founding members of the New Zealand Merino Company's ZQRX regenerative wool platform in 2021, alongside Allbirds and Smartwool. ZQRX serves as a network connecting hundreds of wool farmers with brands seeking ethically and environmentally produced wool.
Focusing on Premium Materials and Eco-Friendly Innovations
Jelena Fursman, the global design manager at Icebreaker, highlights how nature serves as their primary inspiration, influencing every aspect of their work, from cultivating fibers to crafting functional pieces. Collaborating with Timberland was a natural progression due to their shared dedication to continuous improvement.
This collaboration seamlessly merges Icebreaker's natural fibers and soft geometry design lines with Timberland's iconic heritage aesthetic, resulting in a collection of versatile, timeless, and durable apparel suitable for both outdoor adventures and urban endeavors.
The collaboration extends beyond apparel, with footwear offerings including the Trailquest low waterproof sneaker. Made with premium leather and a ReBOTL recycled plastic upper containing at least 50 percent recycled content, these sneakers embody the spirit of sustainability.
The GreenStride sole, developed with 75 percent bio-based, renewable EVA, replaces a significant portion of conventional fossil-fuel-derived foam used in standard sneaker soles. Notably, a quarter panel on the shoe's upper features Icebreaker's merino wool, further accentuating the collaboration's connection to nature.
WRAP Certification
In addition to this exciting partnership, it's worth highlighting that Icebreaker has obtained WRAP certification. The Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP) certification program is globally recognized and dedicated to promoting ethical manufacturing practices. Icebreaker's certification ensures compliance with social, environmental, and legal standards in the apparel, footwear, and sewn products industry.
Through WRAP, Icebreaker demonstrates its commitment to improving workplace conditions and fostering responsible production, playing a significant role in the advancement of labor practices and environmental responsibility within the global fashion landscape.