Where we can, we try to prioritise the use of natural, recyclable and biodegradable materials in how we make things.
For our first batch of socks, we chose organic combed cotton as our primary fabric and this is why...
what is organic combed cotton?
Organic cotton is cotton produced and certified to organic agricultural standardswhich means that its production sustains the health of soils, ecosystems and people by using natural processes rather than artificial inputs.
Our GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified organic cotton is made without the use of synthetic pesticides, insecticides, or herbicides and GMOs (Genetic Modified Organisms) unlike conventionally grown and manufactured cotton.
Organic combed cotton is an extremely soft version of organic cotton made by specially treating the cotton fibres before they are spun into yarn.
how is it made?
After harvesting the raw cotton, the dirt and seeds are cleaned away. To produce the threads, cotton fibres are separated and lined up next to each other in the same direction in a process called carding.
Although time-consuming, this special process improves the strength, durability, and overall quality of the cotton fibres. After alignment the fibres are combed with fine brushes in order to leave behind only the longest, strongest, and straightest fibres. All short and prickling fibres are removed giving the combed cotton greater durability and making it less prone to fraying and tearing.
At the structural level, combed cotton is softer and stronger than your regular cotton. Not only does this increase the durability of the cotton, but it also creates a very soft material that feels good on your skin. The fabric is also biodegradable just like regular cotton.
however, we should be conscious that
Cotton production has a bad track record when it comes to the environment and human rights. Conventional farming can use huge amounts of water and is associated with the heavy use of chemical pesticides and fertilisers, which can affect workers’ health and local ecosystems. Millions of people depend on cotton for their livelihoods, but many parts of the industry are known for poor and unsafe working practices.
Even organic cotton has its challenges. Arguably, it’s better for the environment because it limits the quantities and chemicals used, but that also doesn't mean it's completely harmless, as some natural pesticides can be just as toxic as chemical ones.
These are some of the trade-offs we have to consider as we build our brand. There are no easy answers, and many compromises, but we pledge to be transparent with our customers.
ready to shop organic combed cotton socks?
Our chill, flow and roam styles feature organic combed cotton:
shop chill no-show socks
shop flow gripper socks
shop roam all-day socks