Pangaia Launches Latest Evolution of Bio-Based Down Alternative

London-based apparel and material sciences company Pangaia has upgraded its Flwrdwn bio-based down alternative in a new outwear line, the DNA Flower Warmth collection.

Originally launched in 2019, Flwrdwn combines wildflowers, biopolymer and aerogel to create a breathable material that acts as an alternative to down. Wildflowers used in Flwrdwn are hand-harvested from native prairies and grown without the use of pesticides or irrigation.

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The new version of Flwrdwn boasts an 83 percent higher fill power than previous versions, achieved via a modification in the processing and formation of the biopolymer used to create the material. Fill power is determined through lab  tests that measure cubic inches occupied by 30 grams of material.

The DNA Flower Warmth collection includes three jacket silhouettes, insulated with Flwrdwn fill with a recycled nylon exterior available in five colors—highland green, raisin purple, summit blue, black and atmosphere gray. Styles include a cropped puffer jacket for women; an oversized unisex puffer with a high-neck inner collar, detachable hood and ribbed storm cuffs; and the unisex Flwrdwn gilet, with a detachable hood and snap buttons that can be worn on its own or layered under a coat for additional insulation.

Flwrdwn is just one of Pangaia’s sustainable materials. The company has worked to develop a variety of more sustainable bio-based alternatives to tradition fibers and materials, as well as source natural fibers that produce a minimal environmental impact. Earlier this year, the apparel company launched a new linen collection made sustainably sourced flax, and has previously produced recycled denim lines, created a 100 percent recyclable shoe and used dyes made from foodstuffs.

Pangaia’s environmental and social responsibility efforts earned it “leader” status from the Fair Wear Foundation’s Brand Performance Check, which cited the company for its work to promote ethical sourcing and better working conditions across its supply chain.

Pangaia outlined its social and environmental progress earlier this year in its 2023 Impact Report. The report highlighted Pangaia’s work in material usage, production innovation, decarbonization and social responsibility, while also acknowledging areas for improvement.

“This is incredibly important for a brand that is best known for its material innovation,” Pangaia senior innovation portfolio manager and project manager of the report, Rory Hugill, told Sourcing Journal upon the report’s release. “We recognize that, as a fashion brand, we have to operate responsibly.”