2023.04.11
Creating Correct Employment Through Outdoor Gear! The Material "(Re)Purpose™" Promoted by Cotopaxi
The sustainable brand from America, Cotopaxi, collects excess materials produced by mass production to create unique and high-performance bags and outdoor gear under the name "(Re)Purpose™." We spoke with Christina Kawashima, PR Representative of Alco International Co., Ltd. Marketing Department, about their activities and items.
"Let me first discuss what Cotopaxi is. The brand started in 2014, founded by an American named Davis Smith. Davis spent his childhood in Central and South America, and during that time, he witnessed the environments in which children of his age lived and worked, which made him passionate about wanting to change those conditions.
"Cotopaxi began with the idea of creating jobs that could contribute to society. The brand's philosophy includes 'Creating Correct Employment'.
"The mindset is not about hiring people to make the products but ensuring they can lead a prosperous life and maintain a certain standard of living.
"Cotopaxi's name comes from the mountain in the Andes, Ecuador. The llama in the brand's logo reflects the fact that Davis had a pet llama during his childhood. So, his childhood surroundings are mirrored in the brand."
The Material Called (Re)Purpose™
The brand is characterized by its use of excess materials from factories producing outdoor bags and gear for other companies to create unique bags. However, not much is explained about this material called (Re)Purpose™. We wanted more people to know about the term (Re)Purpose™, so we asked for more details about this initiative."These excess materials and fabric are high-performance, so collecting and using them prevents fabric waste.
"Although the image of recycling or upcycling tends to come to mind first, Cotopaxi's bags use high-quality fabric, so they are not merely items made from discarded cloth. We want people to recognize (Re)Purpose™ material as 'reborn into something new.'"
Supporting Each Adventure
From here, let’s talk while looking at the actual products. We will introduce items from Cotopaxi's representative collection, the "DEL DIA COLLECTION," made by combining (Re)Purpose™ nylon."First, let me introduce the backpack 'ALLPA TRAVEL PACK - DEL DíA.'
"There are three sizes: 28ℓ, 35ℓ, and 42ℓ. From the nylon on the surface to the mesh material on the back, all parts use (Re)Purpose™ material. Since different materials are combined, artisans meticulously craft them to ensure no variation in load-bearing capacity or performance.
"To address differences in materials, all packs come with a rain cover. Cotopaxi has set high standards for artisans to maintain quality. The unique color schemes are arranged so that no two are alike, reflecting the artisans' sensibilities in creating one-of-a-kind items."
"For business use, many people choose the 28ℓ size. Also, many people use the 35ℓ size daily; for example, someone going to the gym after work would find this size convenient.
"This item has been available since the brand launched in Japan. It is positioned as a travel pack, but Cotopaxi envisions it supporting adventures and is designed to be versatile and suitable for various activities.
"The main opening has three mesh pockets for organized storage. Additionally, as it is a foreign product, it includes a hidden internal pocket for passports and valuables, which is convenient.
"Moreover, the zip ends have loops, which prevent the zipper from opening easily when the zipper head is tucked into the loop, offering an anti-theft function.
"Besides security features, it is designed for comfortable use both in the city and outdoors, with a removable waist belt and a pocket for a laptop, which are essential details in today's gear.
"This ALLPA TRAVEL PACK - DEL DíA is an item that supports each person's adventure."
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