Here at Farlows we understand the need for businesses such as ours, which rely on the natural world for the outdoor activities we love, to show a real commitment to becoming more sustainable. As outdoor enthusiasts, the environments we explore - from rivers and lakes to coastlines and countryside - are central to everything we do.
The gear we choose plays a bigger role than ever, with eco-friendly materials, responsible manufacturing and reduced-impact designs helping to protect these wild spaces. From fly fishing tackle to everyday outdoor essentials, this guide highlights ten products leading the way in sustainable performance without compromise.
We are proud to have been awarded Planet Mark Business Certification for our 4th consecutive year, an internationally recognised sustainability certification for businesses acknowledging continuous progress and encouraging action. We are committed to reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 5% annually. In this crucial #DecadeofAction, measuring our own carbon footprint has been a critical step in reducing our impact on the planet and society.
We want to continue to have a positive impact through our business and hope that we can empower our community to take climate action. We hope that you will join us in this movement for change.
In addition, we’re already keen supporters of the Anglers National Line Recycling Scheme (ANLRS) and various charities which help to restore wild fish stocks, and the Keep Fish Wet campaign designed to encourage best practice fish handling when performing catch-and-release.
Why Sustainable Outdoor Gear Matters
From remote rivers to well-trodden trails, the outdoor spaces we enjoy are under increasing pressure. Lost tackle, synthetic fabrics and single-use materials can all contribute to long-term environmental damage. Choosing eco-friendly outdoor and fishing gear - from recycled materials to non-toxic alternatives - helps reduce that impact while supporting the long-term health of the environments we rely on.
What Makes Outdoor & Fishing Gear Eco-Friendly?
Not all “eco-friendly” products are created equal. When choosing more sustainable gear, look for:
- Recycled or responsibly sourced materials
- Non-toxic or lead-free components
- Durable construction to reduce waste
- Minimal, recyclable or plastic-free packaging
- Brands with transparent environmental commitments
For those of us out there increasingly looking to purchase fishing tackle and clothing which has a minimal impact on the natural world, a key focus for Earth Day, here are our top products which are leading the way:
1. Fishpond Stormshadow Chest Pack 3L
Featuring an outer made from recycled polyester with a TPU coating and a lining made from recycled PET, this pack is designed to conform to the body and evenly distribute weight whilst offering effortless movement in the water or on a boat.
2. Flyvines Lanyard
Made from hand-braided recycled fly lines, this stylish lanyard is great for holding all sorts of nippers, forceps and other tools. Each one is unique and available in assorted bright or muted colours. We also carry Flyvines bracelets and sunglasses retainers too.
3. Patagonia Terravia Mini Hip Pack 1L
Made with lightweight yet tough recycled nylon and in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory.
4. Fishpond Piopod Microtrash Container
Discarded fishing line presents a real threat to the animals which live along our rivers, lakes and coastlines, taking many years to break down in the environment. Clip this handy gadget onto your fishing vest or backpack and ensure that you don’t accidentally drop used tippet or other small items of rubbish.
5. Smith Creek "Trash Fish" Spent Line Wrangler
Another handy product for storing waste tippet is this gadget from Smith Creek - simply clamp your used leader into this clip and stop it ending up on the ground or in the water.
6. Sage Neck Gaiter
Keep the sun’s powerful UV rays away from your skin with this new offering from Sage, made with Repreve recycled material derived from plastic bottles which would have otherwise been destined to end up in our oceans. The process of constructing Repreve recycled fibre embeds properties into the fabric such as wicking and adaptive warming/cooling to ensure the highest level of performance to the wearer too.
7. Costa Polarised Sunglasses
The majority of the frames used in Costa sunglasses are made of TR-90 nylon and bio-resin, the latter of which is 100% environmentally friendly.
8. Monomaster Waste Line Collector
The Monomaster is a nifty little eco-friendly gadget designed to store waste nylon monofilament and other fishing line. It stores pieces of used line out of harm’s way and thus keeps both the environment and your vest pockets and tackle boxes clean and tidy.
9. Tacky Pescador Fly Box
Made from 100% recycled plastic, Tacky fly boxes use their signature silicone fly anchoring inserts to keep your flies extremely secure. The Tacky Pescador is one of our team favourites and a great example of using recycled materials to create a premium grade fly box.
10. Patagonia Take A Stand Trucker Hat
This stylish cap makes use of a variety of materials to minimise its environmental impact, as well as bearing the important message of protecting our wild waters. It features an organic cotton front panel, recycled polyester mesh, and a brim made with fully traceable NetPlus fabric made with 100% recycled commercial fishing nets removed from the ocean.
11. Patagonia T-Shirts
Patagonia produce a range of t-shirts made of recycled materials including plastic bottles and fabric scraps. Products are made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory. 100% off Patagonia profits go to fighting the climate crisis.
12. Bajio Sunglasses
100% carbon neutral brand, Bajio used eco-materials such as plant-based products in its lenses, frames and packaging.
13. Patagonia Swiftcurrent Expedition Stockingfoot Waders
Highly durable, 4-layer H2No™ Performance Standard shell is built of 100% recycled polyester microfiber face with a recycled polyester backer for added comfort and performance, a waterproof/breathable barrier and a DWR (durable water repellent) finish.
14. YETI Yonder Plastic Bottle with Straw Cap
A lightweight and virtually shatter resistant, ideal for day hikes and packing light, made from BPA-Free 50% recycled plastic.
15. Fishpond Thunderhead Sumbersible Sling 13L
An ever-increasing proportion of the Fishpond range utilises NewStream recycled fabric, made from discarded commercial fishing nets and repurposed into practical and stylish fishing accessories. One such product is the Thunderhead sling - a real favourite with the Farlows team when out fishing for river trout or bass along the coast.
Small Changes, Big Impact
Sustainable outdoor living isn’t about changing what you love - it’s about making better choices along the way. Swapping a few key items in your kit can significantly reduce your environmental footprint, helping to protect waterways, wildlife and landscapes for future generations.
With Earth Day serving as a reminder of the importance of protecting our natural world, it’s a great opportunity to consider the impact of the gear we use every time we head outdoors.
