5 winter accessories to give (or get) this holiday
Whether you're hitting the slopes or making a snowman, these hats, gloves and scarves will keep you warm and feeling good about the environment.
By Meredith DarlingtonMon, Dec 14 2009 at 5:40 AM EST
Gloves, scarves and knit hats make me so happy. I probably own too many already, but every season I see a cute pattern or color that I don't have and really want. This year, if I have to buy something, I'm going to make sure it's at least an eco-friendly purchase.
If you're in the same boat as I am and don't need to buy any accessories for yourself, consider giving one to an outdoorsy friend.
This scarf is available in five colors (shown in agate green) and is unbelievably soft. It would be especially good for outdoor fun because the 100 percent polyester fleece (87 percent of which recycled) is quick to dry. It would be a great addition for trips, too, as it is lightweight and packs down well.
Click here to read more about Patagonia and environmentalism or read an article about them on MNN.
Ecowool Merino Lambswool Gloves ($21.17)
Ecowool, a company in New Zealand, makes its gloves with renewable resources and without harmful chemicals.
Wool is a natural fiber that helps regulate body temperature and can also take some wear and tear, which makes it a good choice for outdoor activities.
The gloves are available in eight colors, and if you want to match you can also purchase a hat.
Icebreaker Quantum Headliner ($31.99)
For technical outdoor performance, consider the Quantum Headliner. It's made to fit under ski and/or snowboarding helmets. For other activities, such as trail running or sledding, it has a reflective logo to increase visibility in winter weather. Ear flaps are a bonus — one more way to keep out the cold.
Read more about Icebreaker on MNN and how you can track the sheep that provide the material for your garment.
Urban Fingerless Gloves ($36)
Available in rose (shown) or black, these functional gloves are made in Peru of soft organic cotton and low-impact dyes. Though more of a fashion statement than they are conducive to outdoor activities, they'd still be fun to wear post-workout or layered with a sturdier pair of gloves or mittens.
The gloves are available through Indigenous Designs, a website dedicated to supporting fair trade and organic products.
A Spot of Good Scarf ($29.95)
This festive scarf would be fun to wear on a sleigh ride or curled up in front of the fireplace with a cup of hot chocolate after a day of playing in the snow.
Each scarf (made from wool and felt) is handcrafted in Nepal through an organization started by UNICEF.
Many other colors and styles (made through other organizations around the world) are available through the website Original Good, which is the product line from World of Good, Inc.
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