February 2025

Why circular initiatives matter

The way products are made and consumed today is taking a toll on the planet. Every product we use requires raw materials, energy, and water to create—resources that are becoming increasingly difficult to sustain. Yet, many items are discarded after only a short time, often before they’ve reached the end of their useful life. This cycle of overproduction and waste not only depletes resources but also contributes to pollution and environmental damage.

The rise of fast and cheap consumption has made matters worse. It’s easier than ever to replace products instead of repairing them, fostering a throwaway culture where items are treated as disposable rather than durable. This approach fuels overconsumption, strains ecosystems, and highlights the need for change.

Shifting away from this “take-make-waste” model means rethinking how products are used. One of the most effective ways to reduce waste and conserve resources is simply to extend the life of what we already have. Many products are discarded not because they’re beyond repair, but because replacing them has become the default choice. Repairing, reusing, or repurposing gear helps slow this cycle and makes better use of existing materials.

Why this matters for outdoor gear

Outdoor gear, in particular, is built to endure tough conditions, but its production is resource-intensive. High-performance fabrics and technical designs require complex manufacturing processes, and consumers expect durability. Yet, when products show signs of wear, they’re often replaced rather than repaired, adding to unnecessary waste.

Given the materials and craftsmanship involved in making outdoor gear, many products still have years of use left in them even after they’re no longer wanted. By keeping them in circulation longer—whether through repair, resale, or repurposing—their impact can be significantly reduced.

One example: Haglöfs Restored

To contribute to this shift, we repair and restore damaged or defective Haglöfs products, making them available again through Haglöfs Restored. This helps keep quality gear in use, reduces waste, and minimizes the need for new production. While this is a step in the right direction, we know there’s still more to do, and we aim to scale up these efforts over time.

Circularity as a long-term effort

Repairing and reusing products is just one part of a much bigger shift. Moving away from a disposable mindset requires broader changes in how products are designed, used, and handled at the end of their life. More brands, companies, and consumers—including Haglöfs—need to rethink their approach to production and consumption. Scaling up initiatives like repair services, rental programs, and material repurposing will be key to making a real difference.

Circularity isn’t a quick fix, but it’s an important step toward reducing waste and making better use of the resources we already have. By continuing to adapt and improve, we can help ensure outdoor gear is built for longevity—not just in performance, but in how it’s used and reused for years to come.