Why We Chose It: Eco-friendly design, lightweight and packable
Over the course of the last decade, the Napapijri logo has become synonymous with hipster chic. In pre-lockdown times, the instantly recognisable Norwegian logo was a common sight in the trendiest corners of our urban centres (think Shoreditch in London, the Northern Quarter in Manchester, and the Baltic Triangle in Liverpool).
Napapijri’s story actually starts in 1987, when it was created in the shadow of western Europe’s highest peak – Mont Blanc. The brand started out by making bags, with their first ever product being the iconic Bering Bag named after the explorer Vitus Bering. Since then, they’ve branched out and served up an ever wider variety of gear and apparel; riding on that cusp between city-living and outdoor lifestyle perfectly.
Who is the Napapijri Circular Rainforest for?
From the nature of our introduction to this product, you’ve probably already got some idea who this jacket is targeted at. Its environmentally-conscious eco-credentials, simple yet technical qualities, and cool styling make this item absolutely spot on for the city-dwelling weekend warrior. Picture the type of person who works in something like graphic design Monday to Friday, but who also lives for getting out into the countryside for long pub walks on a Saturday or Sunday. They’re probably quite big on Instagram.
Materials and Construction
From a materials point of view, we’re delighted to see such a sustainable approach being used in the production of the Circular Rainforest. The jacket’s fabric is made of ECONYL Regenerated Nylon that’s been obtained from discarded fishing nets and other waste material. What’s more, the product is 100% recyclable. That’s because all of this item’s parts have a mono-material composition.
“It’s 100% recyclable, PFC-free and the Econyl fabric used is a recycled nylon made from discarded fishing nets and other waste materials.
We all know that if the outdoor industry is serious about reducing environmental impact, it needs to create a sustainable loop. And so, with that in mind, it’s great to see brands like Napapijri walking the walk on this.
The main material used for the Circular Rainforest is lightweight but also reassuringly durable. It’ll offer wind protection and a decent level of water resistance, although it won’t stand up to any heavy or prolonged rainfall.
It has a zip fastening, an adjustable hood, and welt pockets (also with zip fastenings) for your valuables. The elasticated trims and adjustable hems, in combination with the hood, mean you can customise the fit to ensure that you’re keeping the wind out and the warm air in. There’s also an inside mesh lining here for better breathability, and some stylish printed details.
OM editor Will, who’s wearing the windbreaker in these pictures, is 5 foot 10 and is wearing a size M (his usual size). As you can see the cut is quite loose so you can certainly wear this over a bulky layer or two.
