Sometimes it's all about a bit of subtlety. The Nieck beanie from BARTS is your classic ribbed winter woolly hat, but with a neat little twist – you'll notice that the ribbing on the turn-up is a different width from the knit on the crown, making for a nice mix of textures. Extra brownie points for the 50% recycled polyester in the yarn too.
Recycled: this beanie is made from 50% Recycled Polyester
Isn't it funny how many outdoor brands seem to have started out with one man and a sewing machine? In 1986, the man was Bart Koene and the place was sun-soaked St Tropez. Bart originally knocked up handmade swimming shorts to sell on the beach, but one day a stylish friend was helping him flog his wares when a passing tourist tried to buy her bandana. Bart knew an opportunity when he saw one, and quickly branched out into headwear and other accessories.
Now based in Amsterdam, BARTS has come a long way since ‘86. In fact, the brand offers more than 2,500 products including hats, beachwear and bags. But it’s about quality, not quantity. This is clobber with conscience. BARTS don’t use angora, fur or mohair, and each year they increase their use of recycled and sustainable yarns. The brand insists on a strict code of conduct for its partner factories, and its head office and warehouse in Houthavens is purpose-built to minimise carbon emissions. BARTS employees even get free weekly yoga classes.
