The original Classic Jersey was Rapha’s first ever product. The latest versions of the Classic Jersey II and Classic Bib Shorts retain the refined fit and details of the original but have been updated with a new version of the proprietary Rapha Performance Merino 150 (RPM150) fabric. This now incorporates recycled polyester.
Rapha notes that, unlike generic merino blends, RPM150 is light, soft, breathable and adaptable to a huge range of conditions. Using recycled polyester reduces the brand’s reliance on virgin materials and gives a second life to materials that would otherwise go to landfill.
Overall, the company adds that this change reduces its environmental impact without compromising product performance and durability.
“The new Classic Jersey represents a drive to doing things better,” said Emma Bentley, Rapha’s Fabric Development Manager. “This garment is so prominent, and is such an icon, that making this change really demonstrates our commitment to reducing our environmental impact.”
The recycled polyester yarn in question is GRS (Global Recycled Standard) certified. This can be traced back to the post-consumer plastic bottles it originated from. The merino content, which makes up the remaining 36% of the RPM fabric, is sourced under strict adherence to animal welfare standards, and is non-mulesed, like all wool at Rapha, to protect sheep welfare.
Next year, Rapha adds that its RPM fabric supplier will achieve RWS (Responsible Wool Standard) certification – the highest standard in the industry.
The relaunch of the Classic Collection marks one of the steps in Rapha’s journey towards minimising its social and environmental impact. In the last few years, the brand has been working steadily to make changes to its business whilst maintaining standards in design and quality.
Rapha’s recently published Impact Commitments set out a roadmap that aims for the brand to be carbon-neutral by 2025. Along the way it will be reducing its impacts by transitioning to 100% renewable energy, 100% low impact packaging, and environmentally preferred materials across 90% of seasonal production.
“What might sound insignificant at first – swapping out a fabric on one jersey – actually has a domino effect for our environmental impact as a brand,” explained Duncan Coulter, Rapha’s Sustainability Manager.
“This jersey was Rapha’s first product, so starting here makes a big statement. We could have focussed on a less important product or even developed a whole new low impact collection. But by starting here, with our most iconic garment, we’re making a statement that this commitment to doing things better comes straight from the heart of the brand.”
- Men’s & Women’s Classic Jersey II: RRP £110 / US$150 / €135
- Men’s & Women’s Classic Bib Shorts: RRP £170 / US$235 / €200
