Haglöfs and Polartec introduce Standard Issue Black™ — a shared black standard to reduce unnecessary variation in the outdoor industry

Black is the most used color in outdoor apparel, yet it’s rarely the same shade from one fabric to another. Across the industry, countless versions of black are developed and dyed separately, creating unnecessary complexity and impact.

That’s why Haglöfs and Polartec joined forces to introduce Standard Issue Black™ — a pre-dyed black standard designed to simplify sourcing and reduce the environmental footprint associated with fabric dyeing and color development.

During a joint material review, Haglöfs and Polartec identified more than 20 visually similar black variations in active use within Polartec’s bestselling original technical fleece series. Each required its own dye process, production volumes and resources, despite appearing virtually identical.

Standard Issue Black™ addresses this inefficiency at scale. Compared to traditional piece-dyed black fabrics, it reduces water use in production by over 50% and saves a minimum of 20% energy usage compared to traditional piece-dyed black fabrics, based on internal production assessment. This offers a more resource-efficient approach to one of the most widely used colors in outdoor apparel.

The initiative is demonstrated through the Black Capsule — a limited collection created using existing Polartec leftover fabrics in multiple black variations. Rather than creating something new, the capsule brings these variations together to make the implications of today’s fragmented approach to black visible, and to set the context for a shared standard going forward.

“By standardizing something as fundamental as black, we can reduce unnecessary steps in production and make better use of shared resources,” says Ramesh Kesh, SVP at Milliken & Company and Business Manager at Polartec. “Standard Issue Black™ is intentionally open to the entire industry. Our aim is to contribute to a broader shift towards shared standards in how color is developed and produced.”

For Haglöfs, the initiative reflects a long-term approach to design and product development, where early decisions play a key role in reducing complexity and extending product lifespan.

“Color choices have long-term consequences,” says Eva Weiss, Head of Design at Haglöfs. “We approach color with great attention to detail, understanding how materials and construction influence a shade. By working towards a clear standard, we reduce unnecessary variation while maintaining design integrity. It’s precision with purpose, supporting longevity in both function and expression.”

After years of collaboration, the two companies see Standard Issue Black™ as a starting point for continued dialogue and cooperation across the industry — demonstrating how shared standards can help reduce complexity, conserve resources and support more responsible product development over time. Standard Issue Black™ will enter production for the first time in Haglöfs’ FW26 season, marking the transition from concept to implementation.

The Black Capsule collection will be available online at haglofs.com and in selected Haglöfs stores in Stockholm, Gothenburg, Helsinki, and Åre from March 13th.