Maier Sports reaches the Final of the Deutsche Nachhaltigkeitspreises
The design2recycle – recycle2design concept integrates aspects such as recycling, repair, refurbishment, and reuse already at the product development stage, thereby creating conditions that support an extended product use phase.
For the hiking jackets ArorA and OkokO, windproof, waterproof, and breathable membranes made from polyester are used. This approach has enabled the development of a weather protection jacket made entirely from one material type, namely polyester. In addition, a Z-liner construction is applied. Its key feature is that the elastic membrane is suspended relatively freely between the outer fabric and the lining, with only a few connection points. As a result, no adhesive is required to laminate the outer fabric, membrane, and lining, as is typically the case with conventional 3-layer jackets. Seam tape is only used at the suspension points of the Z-liner. Furthermore, the membrane can be separated more easily and may be repaired, removed, and reused for other purposes, including in parts. These characteristics also apply, for example, to the unisex OkokO hoodie equipped with a Sympatex 20,000 Z-liner, which provides protection against wind and rain. The hood offers additional weather protection, while the anorak’s pockets provide sufficient space for essential items.
We have recognized that meaningful progress requires openness—openness to new ideas as well as to collaboration with new partners. In this context, we chose the Sympatex membrane, which is bluesign® approved and made entirely from polyester (PES). Due to its mono-material composition, the lining laminate is suitable for recycling.
With the hiking jackets OkokO and ArorA, Maier Sports applied for the German Sustainability Award in the category Products for the first time in 2024. Based on the assessment of an independent jury, the award recognizes contributions that demonstrate potential to support transformation processes. Maier Sports reached the final round with its submission, which we consider an important acknowledgment of this entry.