REI, Ambercycle partner to use regenerated polyester, cycora

REI has entered a three-year agreement with Ambercycle, a company known for its work in molecular regeneration. Through this deal, REI will use Ambercycle’s cycora regenerated polyester, helping Ambercycle expand production of its next-generation materials.

The collaboration supports REI’s goal of offering high-quality outdoor gear while reducing waste and its environmental footprint. With this partnership, REI aims to further its sustainability efforts by creating new textile products made from recycled textile waste, helping to “close the loop” in the material cycle.

“At REI, we believe next-generation materials are essential for a low-carbon future in outdoor gear,” said Ajay Chadha, Director of Materials Innovation at REI Co-op Brands. “As we move toward our 2030 sustainability goals, we are investing in science-based solutions like textile recycling to cut emissions and reduce dependence on virgin polyester. This partnership shows our long-term commitment to growing the use of low-carbon materials and making a positive impact for our members and the wider industry.”

The agreement sets out a step-by-step plan for introducing cycora into REI Co-op Brands. It will first be used in key performance product categories and later expanded as the supply grows. At the same time, Ambercycle is increasing its recycling capacity to turn old textiles back into usable materials, supporting a more sustainable and circular textile system.

“REI’s reach goes beyond its own brand, as a co-op, it unites thousands of outdoor brands and millions of members with a shared goal,” said Shay Sethi, CEO and co-founder of Ambercycle. “That makes REI an ideal partner to help scale sustainable materials. By adopting cycora, REI is showing that high-performance products and circular practices can successfully work together, setting a strong example for the outdoor industry.”