Upcycling

Whether it's a dusty memento from the attic or a much-loved piece of equipment that has just done its last duty. Instead of disposing of the old slats in the bulky waste, we are resurrecting them as stylish interior elements. In order to protect our beloved winter, the trend is towards a circular economy, and with it the upcycling of ski equipment. We at PowderGuide have put together our own projects to show you what a little time, creativity and sweat can do. Let's start with the wardrobe.

As established in the two previous articles – recycling skis isn’t easy or, in many cases, not yet possible. But what other options exist for avoiding the landfill? Or at least for extending the lifetime of our equipment? Circular production can be divided into 9 Rs, with recycling way down at the bottom together with incineration of materials, as the two least circular options. Before the two there’s rethinking, reducing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing, remanufacturing and repurposing (upcycling). These are actions that we as individual consumers can take to slow down resource loops, extend product life and reuse products. At the same time, companies can contribute to closing and narrowing resource loops by capturing value from waste through recycling, as well as through product design and resource efficiency.

Are you such a big Figl fan that you’re tired of borrowing them? Or maybe you’re just into a bit of DIY and want to give your old skis a second life? Then you’re in the right place. In this edition of Gear of the Week, I’ll show you how a friend and I built our own pair of Figl skis one morning – true to the motto: quick and dirty. Two weeks ago, I introduced Figln as a spring ritual and shared a bit about its origins. Today, we’re getting hands-on: time to grab the tools and dive in.

Namuk has long since made a name for itself beyond Switzerland's borders as an innovative and sustainable company when it comes to outdoor clothing for children. To avoid additional waste, Namuk is launching a collection made from fabric remnants left over from production. In this test report, we have the honour of taking a closer look at the unique and limited edition upcycled items.

Today's GotW introduces the well-known but sometimes forgotten sewing machine. An important function of a sewing machine in the outdoor sector is to repair items of clothing and equipment in order to extend the life of your favourite items or even redefine their intended use.

The Quest ski suit is a product from a small, fine clothing brand for the youngest snow fans. Namuk is committed to producing high-quality, durable and functional winter clothing for children.

Today we present a belt made from ski fur: is this GOTW a must-have or an accessory? Let's find out together!

Christmas is just around the corner and with it the question of presents: this year, we want to focus on used clothing and equipment or even borrowed products and have summarized the Snow of Tomorrow top 5 ideas here.

Even in this very unusual season, we hope that all PowderGuide users will have a wonderful Christmas time and have the opportunity to give presents to their loved ones (or themselves). If you are still looking for last-minute ideas, here, as every year, are the PowderGuide editorial team's material wishes. Unfiltered.

I was delighted when I received a replacement for my already very old ski poles from our partner K2. But I couldn't be satisfied with that! My long-serving poles needed to find a new home.

Skiing usually also means that you have skis with you. Depending on how you get to the desired starting point, you have to pack the skis in, on or behind the car.

Which snow fan and sliding timber enthusiast hasn't asked themselves what should happen to all these precious pieces and how they can be put to good use for posterity?