Bazsux: Recycled nylon clothing from prAna keeps you comfortable

PrAna is a clothing company deeply committed to the environment and ensuring safe and fair working conditions. Its newest release in the ReZion collection is a story of the company’s continued progression toward comfortable and Earth-friendly recycled nylon clothing.

Left, a woman wearing long yellow-brown recycled nylon pants. Right, her in black pants.

Released in January, the ReZion line is a new version of an old favorite that relies on Stretch Zion fabric. The ReZion collection gives that original lineup a sustainability boost with eco-friendly recycled nylon stretch performance fabric. Rather than using virgin materials that further tax the planet, the ReZion line incorporates nylon from sources like carpets and fishing lines into the mix. As a lab-made and synthetic material, nylon takes painfully long to break down in the landfill. By diverting these materials from the landfill and recycling them into something durable and comfortable, prAna short-circuits fast fashion and reduces waste at the same time.

In addition to conscientious material selection, the ReZion collection includes thoughtful design elements like dual-entry zipper-secured cargo pockets, mesh-lined pockets, security pockets, adjustable waistbands, ventilated inseams and reinforced back pockets.

Left, a man standing and wearing a green shirt and black shorts. Left, him sitting and wearing recycled nylon clothing.

ReZion pants and shorts come in an assortment of colors, fits and lengths. The collection includes the Men’s Stretch Zion II pant, which comes in a regular or slim cut. The Men’s Stretch Zion II Shorts come in three inseam lengths and eight color options. Similarly, the Men’s Brion II lineup comes in two-leg cuts and a shorts option.

The Women’s Halle II pants are available in regular or straight leg, and the Women’s Halle II Shorts offer two lengths and four color options. There are also plus-size options. The Halle Jogger II comes in four color selections and a wide range of sizes.

Left, a woman sitting in a chair and wearing green pants and a white shirt. Right, her in a black shirt.

All products in the ReZion line offer UPF 50+ protection and are treated with a durable, PFAS-free water repellent. The collection is made from bluesign® approved materials, which ensures no harmful substances are used at any point in the supply chain. It also certifies that textiles are safe for the environment, workers and customers.

PrAna takes pride in advocating for corporate responsibility regarding environmental protection. For the past 12 years, the company has been committed to cleaning up its packaging and eliminating plastic. To this end, it relies on roll-packing clothing secured with natural materials like raffia ties. Some products are packed in Vela FSC-certified paper bags when packaging can’t be avoided. PrAna also relies on recycled paper for all clothing tags, and they are attached using organic cotton string or cotton thread instead of plastic. The company even uses recyclable paper tape to seal orders. All shipments are sent in recycled content kraft paper mailers or corrugated boxes.

Two views of a pair of blue shorts.

Packaging is just one area where prAna puts effort into analyzing the most responsible choices along the supply chain. It also abides by the 5 Freedoms Act for humane treatment of animals, which is why it doesn’t use alpaca, angora, conventional silk, conventional cashmere, mohair, rabbit or yak.

PrAna also works with the Renewal Workshop, a repair shop for clothing that allows textiles to stay in circulation longer rather than being treated as waste. Additionally, as a founding member of the OIA Climate Action Corps, prAna has set emission-reduction goals and monitors its progress toward that goal annually.

A pair of blue shorts resting on the ground.

Product review of the women’s Halle Short II

With some prior exposure to prAna products, when they offered to send a sample pair of shorts, I enthusiastically accepted. In fairness, I probably came in with a bias because I own a few second-hand prAna products already and appreciate the quality and feel of these pre-loved items.

I received the Halle Short II quickly, and as promised, all packaging was plastic-free. The recycled paper tag proudly highlights the company’s sustainability movement and pledge to provide a refund or exchange if not completely satisfied with the product. Vegetable-based ink is used on the tag, and it was attached over a belt loop without the need for plastic or metal pins. The tag also carries a sticker advertising that the product was made in a Fair Trade Certified factory.

A pair of blue shorts draped over a railing outside.

The Halle Short II I received is the 7-inch inseam length in the Shoreline bluish-green color. Honestly, I’ll need a little help from my fashionista daughter to find the best top to match this color, but it is a wonderful break from my standard black, navy, or taupe options. I also find the Earthbound and Camo options fun and representative of the brand.

The shorts themselves are incredibly flexible and comfortable. If I were a rock climber, these would provide the range of motion needed. As it is, I look forward to wearing them while backpacking this summer since they don’t ride up or dig in anywhere. The length is also great, so I don’t have to worry about coverage. Seams, button attachment and zipper quality all rank high. The front pockets are generous and mesh-lined. The back pockets snap for secure storage if needed. The material is lightweight and breathable but feels durable at the same time. In “short,” I’m extremely happy with these shorts. Happy hiking!

+ prAna

Images via prAna and Dawn Hammon / Inhabitat