What is 'bluesign' and why is it important?
Posted by Kirsten on 2025 Mar 20th
When something is bluesign® certified, it means that item meets strict environmental and safety standards set by the Swiss company: bluesign® technologies. They work with the textile industry and are involved in every step of the production process.
What is bluesign?
It is an independent certification system that ensures factories and brands utilize better chemicals and manufacturing processes, as well as being more efficient with their resources. In short, they help companies minimize their impact on people and our planet. Any bluesign approved factory must meet strict standards for pollution control, and workplace health and safety.
bluesign does on-site assessments and guides companies through a process to eliminate toxic substances from the beginning of their production process. When the production is complete, they conduct tests and inspections before officially issuing a certification.
How do you know if a product is bluesign approved?
You can find it listed on the product’s tags or within the product details on a company’s website. You may see the bluesign logo or a note about bluesign mentioned within the description. See photo above for examples.
What's the different between "bluesign approved" and a "bluesign product"?
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‘bluesign® product’ means it comes from a bluesign SYSTEM PARTNER and contains a minimum of 90% blue-sign approved fabric and 30% bluesign-approved accessories (labels, zippers, thread, etc.).
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‘bluesign® approved’ means there are components within the product that have been bluesign approved.
In some cases, bluesign certified products can cost more due to fees from higher standards and rigorous evaluation processes however, this isn’t always the case. Either way, supporting companies who adhere to such strict environmental practices is a way of encouraging continued responsible production practices and sustainable supply chains.
What products are bluesign® certified at River & Trail?
You will find bluesign® certification on products from:
- Arc’teryx
- Black Diamond
- ENO
- Granger’s
- La Sportiva
- NEMO
- Osprey
- Outdoor Research
- Patagonia
- prAna
- Ruffwear
- Thule