Adventure Shouldn’t Cost the Earth – Discover the Eco RUFFNEK®

For anyone who loves the outdoors, it’s only natural to want to protect the very landscapes we explore. At RUFFNEK®, we believe enjoying the great outdoors and caring for it should go hand in hand. Sadly, much of today’s outdoor gear is still made using harmful chemicals and non-recyclable materials that have a lasting impact on our planet. That’s something we’re determined to change.

From day one, our goal has been simple - to design long-lasting, multifunctional accessories that help adventurers explore in comfort while keeping their environmental footprint to a minimum.

The Environmental Cost of Outdoor Gear

Many outdoor brands still rely on synthetic coatings and PFAS (so-called “forever chemicals”) to make their products water- or stain-resistant. These substances take decades to break down and can leach into soil and water, damaging ecosystems.

At RUFFNEK®, we’ve taken a different approach. Our snoods and knitted scarves are made without PFAS or other harmful treatments, helping to protect both people and the planet.

The textile industry as a whole is one of the biggest global contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Much of that comes from the production of virgin polyester - a plastic derived from fossil fuels. To help change that, we use recycled polyester yarn spun from post-consumer plastic bottles. By giving waste a second life, we reduce reliance on new materials and help divert plastic away from landfill and our oceans.

What to Look for When Choosing Sustainable Outdoor Gear

If you’re trying to make more environmentally responsible choices, here are a few simple things to look out for:

• Material composition: Choose items made from recycled or natural fibres, such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, or merino wool. These have a smaller footprint than virgin synthetics.
• Chemical use: Check whether products are PFAS-free and avoid those containing harmful coatings or finishes.
• Durability and versatility: Look for gear that’s made to last and can be worn in multiple ways. One well-made item that does several jobs is far better for the planet than a drawer full of single-use accessories.

RUFFNEK®: Designed for Adventure, Made with the Planet in Mind

Every RUFFNEK® product is created with sustainability, performance, and practicality in mind. Our snoods are made from recycled polyester microfibre - a soft, breathable, moisture-wicking fabric produced from plastic bottles. They’re designed to be durable, easy to care for, and incredibly versatile - wear one as a neck gaiter, headband, bandana, balaclava, hairband, or face cover.

Because they’re PFAS-free and built to last, each RUFFNEK® helps reduce waste while offering year-round comfort for every adventure.

A Few of Our Eco-Friendly Favourites

Mountain Contours Sand / Stone Hiking Snood

Made from recycled plastic bottles, this high-performance snood protects against wind, snow, and sun. The breathable, wickable fabric keeps you dry and comfortable, whether you’re hiking, trekking, or camping. Designed for both men and women, it’s ideal for changeable weather and everyday outdoor use.

Black Sheep Snood Scarf

A customer favourite - soft, seamless, and made from 100% recycled polyester microfibre. It’s hypoallergenic, colourfast, and keeps its stretch wash after wash. Perfect for walking, cycling, skiing, or simply braving the British weather, it’s proof that sustainable design can still look great.

Park Running Snood Tube Scarf

Lightweight, breathable, and made from recycled materials, this snood keeps you warm on chilly morning runs and cool during intense workouts. It’s comfortable, practical, and a brilliant reminder that performance gear doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense.

Why Sustainable Choices Matter

Every small change adds up. Choosing sustainable products helps reduce waste, cuts carbon emissions, and supports brands that genuinely care about the environment. At RUFFNEK®, we’re proud to show that high-performance outdoor accessories can be made responsibly - without compromising on style, comfort, or quality.

The RUFFNEK® Recycle Initiative

We know that even the toughest snoods eventually reach the end of their adventure. That’s why we launched RUFFNEK® Recycle - our way of helping customers give their old snoods a second life. In partnership with the Salvation Army’s Trading Company (SATCoL), we encourage customers to return any used RUFFNEK® snoods so the materials can be reused or responsibly recycled. It’s a small but meaningful step towards keeping textiles out of landfill and closing the loop on waste.

You can read more about how it works in our RUFFNEK® Recycle blog and see how easy it is to get involved.

In Summary

The outdoor industry still has a long way to go, but together we can make a difference. By choosing eco-friendly gear like RUFFNEK® snoods, you’re helping to protect the places we all love to explore.

Explore our full sustainable range at www.ruffnek.co.uk - and adventure responsibly.