Ethical surf brand Finisterre is committed to creating great looking technical sportswear, that has a minimal impact on the environment.
" width="200" height="200"/>
If like many of us you are concerned about the environment, but at the same time wanting to buy some new gear, then take a look at Finisterre. Although branded as a surf label, Finisterre create great classic outdoor gear that can cross over into many different activities.
This relatively new brand is based in St Agnes, Cornwall and the founder Tom Kay and staff really live the life style they design for, which shines through in the garments. From wadded outerwear to merino wool baselayers, all items combine a timeless quality with a modern silhouette, in a good range of colours.
One of their most successful products is the lightweight insulated jacket - Etobicoke (pictured right). This simple item made from recycled polyester, has a light and warm filling which generates lots of heat and yet can pack away into a pocket, making it a really versatile item. The jacket is available in yellow or back and priced at £105 and the vest version called Bise is available in burnt orange or black and is £65.
Merino wool is gaining popularity as a great base and mid weight layer and Finisterre have included it in several items. Their Super Fine Merino Base Layer at £30 is one of the best value styles we have come across. The styling is simple and plain, making it a really useful everyday item. It will keep you warm when its cool and cool when it is warm. And the great thing is that you can put it in the washing machine, although you may not need to as often as some thermals since the Merino wool is naturally odour resistant.
Also available in Merino wool is a range of mid-weight sweatshirts. Sportsister’s favourite is Arcus (pictured below left) - a full zip sweatshirt available in kermit green and storm blue. This sweat is so much more than your average hoody, the fabric has a soft close knit outer and is brushed on the inside and the garment is really well made. It has more the feel of a great sweater than a hoody and is an item that will not date, which is handy as it comes with a lifetime guarantee. Priced at £90 it is not cheap, but it is a premium product and will last for years.
" width="430" height="200"/>
If you are looking for a waterproof jacket, then the Storm Track MK4 (pictured above right) is for you. The Nikwax Analogy outer fabric is water resistant, windproof, durable and breathable and second layer acts as a liner that repels any water that may get through the first layer making the jacket 100% waterproof. The functionality is efficient, yet not over the top - this is a refined jacket with a slim cut that can be worn for a multitude of activities. It is available in electric blue (one of this seasons most fashionable colours) or black if you prefer something more classic and priced at £260. The only downside is that it is a limited edition item - there are only 90 available in each colour, but at least you won’t keep bumping into people wearing the same jacket as you.
Factfile:
Buy online at: www.finisterreuk.com
Suitable for: All outdoor activities, but aimed at surfers.
Special features: Finisterre are committed to ethical practices and sustainable production and as such have won many awards, including The Observer Ethical Awards and The Surfers Path Green awards.
Address: Finisterre, Wheal Kitty Workshops. St Agnes. Cornwall. TR5 0RD
Phone: 01872 554481
Want to win a Finisterre Merino base layer?
Finisterre have kindly donated one of their base layers as a competition prize. All you have to do if you want to be in with a chance of winning is to email us at [email protected] with your size (XS, S,M, L or XL). The competition closes on Monday 2nd Feb 2009.
Good luck!
Danielle Sellwood, Sportsister
The Women’s Sports Magazine
Read more Sportsister recommends:
