Where to Ski And Snowboard - One-stop sustainable ski shop opens

One-stop sustainable ski shop opens

24th February 2021, by Abi Butcher

Chemmy Alcott has been wearing kit from EcoSki.co.uk on Ski Sunday

A website that promises to sell only sustainable ski and snowboard clothing and accessories has launched to offer environmentally-minded winter folk the chance to buy “kit with a conscience”.

EcoSki.co.uk has carefully hand-picked a selection of winter brands that adhere to the highest social and environmental credentials — so buyers can purchase in the confidence that their choice is planet-friendly. The company, which aims to be a “one-stop sustainable ski shop” also offers a repair service and re-selling platform to “close the loop” and prolong the life of hard-wearing kit, and has plans for a rental service to open next year, too.

EcoSki founder Rachael Westbrook says: “I am not saying we are 100% sustainable, as everything we produce comes at some cost to the environment, but all the stock meets our baseline requirement of being responsibly sourced and made, PFC free and/or recycled. It is what I often refer to as ‘kit with a conscience’.”

Brands stocked by EcoSki include Patagonia, Picture Organic, Planks, Marmot, Yuki Threads, Icebreaker, Mammut, Amundsen and Mons Royale — and Rachael has worked with advisors including fashion stylist Rachel Fortune, founder of the Sustainable Lifestyle Awards and sustainability consultant Lucie Harrild, to ensure highest standards.

EcoSki is also donating one percent of the net proceeds from every sale to an organisation called 1% For The Planet*, supporting four different charities within its umbrella — Protect Our Winters, Ghost Fishing UK, Root and Branch Out and the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust.

The idea quickly won the backing of skier/TV presenter Chemmy Alcott and photographer/explorer Martin Hartley, who are acting as ambassadors for EcoSki.co.uk

Chemmy, who has been wearing items from EcoSki all winter on Ski Sunday, says: “I am truly honoured and excited to be working with the incredible team at EcoSki. I had never really appreciated how impactful our clothing choices were on the environment. I still have a lot to learn but I am looking forward to helping support and promote inspirational brands while also having an avenue to ‘give back’.”

For more information, visit ecoski.co.uk