Backpacks
The majority of our models were made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and polyester until recently. In our current production, we have switched to PU (polyurethane) and recycled polyester (rPET).
What exactly is PVC, and why are we replacing it with PU?
PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride and is one of the most widely used plastics in the world. The problem does not lie in the plastic itself, as its properties—such as water resistance, stability, and aesthetics—make it highly suitable for backpacks. However, chemical plasticizers are added to make it flexible and moldable. Although the proportion of PVC in our backpacks is relatively low, we no longer wish to continue using it.
A more environmentally and health-friendly alternative is PU (polyurethane). PU is a type of (vegan) synthetic leather and is completely free of chemical plasticizers. Additionally, it is ideal for our backpacks because it is water-repellent and highly durable due to its material properties. This allows us to ensure high quality without the use of chemical plasticizers or coatings.
What are the advantages of recycled polyester over regular polyester?
Recycled polyester has the same quality as conventional polyester, but requires no new resources and about 59% less energy in production . For conventional polyester, petroleum and new plastics must be sourced in the production process, which can be dispensed with in the case of recycled polyester, thus saving resources. RPET is obtained from cleaned PET bottles, industrial polyester waste or even garments and thus represents a sustainable cycle. Not only our products are durable, but also our materials are!
Sunglasses & Corrective Glasses
Acetat
The majority of our prescription and sunglasses are made from acetate. This is a bio-plastic derived from cellulose. For this purpose, wood waste is broken down and processed into cellulose fibers, which are processed into acetate sheets and from which our eyewear is made. Cellulose is a renewable, recyclable raw material. The special feature of acetate is that the glasses made of it are very light, high quality and flexible for you to adjust at any time.
Metal
We are aware that metal does not score very well when it comes to sustainability in manufacturing. Unfortunately, we have not yet found a sustainable material with comparable properties. Metal is very light, robust, heat-resistant and discreet in design. It is very suitable for high-quality glasses that are very durable and you can wear for a long time.
Other materials, we use in our glasses, backpacks and watches are: Sapphire Glass, Mineral Glass, Canvas, Leather, Rubber, Nylon and Tarpaulin.
Here, too, durability and quality are top priorities in the selection process, and we are constantly finding innovative alternatives.
