Organic Fabrics



Exploring Organic Fabrics in Nepal: Types, Durability, and Where to buy locally

The Himalayan Connection values eco-friendly travel and sustainability, and when it comes to textiles, organic fabrics are a perfect way to align with nature’s harmony.


Whether you’re seeking comfortable trekking gear or handmade pieces with a minimal environmental footprint, Nepal offers a wide range of locally produced, organic fabrics that are durable and sustainable.


For trekking in the Himalayas, choosing the right fabric is crucial to ensure comfort, durability, and environmental adaptability.


Here are the best fabrics suited for different conditions:



Merino Wool ( Pashmina)

  1. Best for: Cold weather and high altitudes
  2. Key Features: Merino wool is lightweight, moisture-wicking, and highly insulating, even when wet. It is naturally odor-resistant, ideal for multi-day treks where washing is limited.
  3. Why It’s Great: It keeps you warm in cold temperatures but is also breathable enough for when you warm up during hikes. • Durability: Very durable and retains its insulating properties over time. • Use: Base layers, socks, and mid-layers.




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12.5.14, DESIGNER



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12.5.14, DESIGNER



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12.5.14, DESIGNER



Organic Cotton (Blended with Hemp or Wool)

  1. Best for: Moderate climates and shorter treks
  2. Key Features: Organic cotton is soft, breathable, and lightweight, but when blended with hemp or wool, it becomes more durable and provides better moisture-wicking capabilities.
  3. Why It’s Great: Comfortable and breathable for lower altitudes and mild weather.
  4. Durability: Less durable than wool or hemp, but great when used in combination with other fabrics.
  5. Use: T-shirts, light trekking pants, and casual outerwear.







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12.5.14, DESIGNER



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12.5.14, DESIGNER



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12.5.14, DESIGNER



Himalayan Stinging Nettle Fabrics (Allo)

  1. Nettle Fabric Best for: All-weather treks, especially in cool and humid conditions
  2. Key Features: Nettle, also known as Allo in Nepal, is harvested from the wild Himalayan nettle plant. It’s a strong, breathable fabric with natural antibacterial properties and is highly sustainable.
  3. Nettle is eco-friendly and traditionally used by communities in the mountainous regions of Nepal. Why It’s Great: Nettle is breathable yet warm, making it perfect for trekking in variable weather conditions, from cool mornings to humid afternoons. Its antibacterial properties also make it resistant to odors, an important feature for multi-day treks.
  4. Durability: Nettle is incredibly strong, comparable to hemp, and can withstand rough use while trekking.
  5. Use: Jackets, outerwear, trekking pants, and accessories like hats and scarves.







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12.5.14, DESIGNER



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12.5.14, DESIGNER



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12.5.14, DESIGNER



Bamboo

  1. Best for: Warm, humid climates or as a base layer
  2. Key Features: Bamboo fabric is incredibly soft, moisture-wicking, and has natural antibacterial properties. It’s highly breathable, making it great for treks in warmer regions or as a next-to-skin layer.
  3. Why It’s Great: Its softness and cooling properties are perfect for keeping comfortable during long hikes in warm conditions.
  4. Durability: Good durability, especially for base layers, but may wear out faster with heavy use.
  5. Use: Base layers, underwear, and light shirts.







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12.5.14, DESIGNER



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12.5.14, DESIGNER



BRANDING PROJECT NO 1



12.5.14, DESIGNER



Banana Fiber (Abaca)

  1. Best for: Warm, humid weather and light trekking
  2. Key Features: Banana fiber is lightweight, strong, and naturally breathable. It has a silky texture, similar to bamboo or silk, making it soft and comfortable to wear. It is moisture-wicking, dries quickly, and is also biodegradable.
  3. Why It’s Great: Banana fiber is excellent for keeping you cool and dry in warm, humid conditions. Its lightweight nature also makes it comfortable to wear during long treks, especially in the lower altitudes.
  4. Durability: Banana fiber is relatively strong, though not as durable as hemp or nettle. It’s best suited for light trekking or casual wear.
  5. Ideal for shirts, light pants, scarves, and outerwear in tropical or warm climates.







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12.5.14, DESIGNER



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12.5.14, DESIGNER



BRANDING PROJECT NO 1



12.5.14, DESIGNER



Hemp Fabrics

  1. Best for: Cold weather and high altitudes
  2. Key Features: Merino wool is lightweight, moisture-wicking, and highly insulating, even when wet. It is naturally odor-resistant, making it ideal for multi-day treks where washing is limited.
  3. Why It’s Great: It keeps you warm in cold temperatures but is also breathable enough for when you warm up during hikes. • Durability: Very durable and retains its insulating properties over time. • Use: Base layers, socks, and mid-layers.




Hemp Bags



Hemp Coat



Hemp Shirt



Hemp Shirt