The biotechnology business Checkerspot’s outdoor brand WNDR® Alpine is introducing the Phase Series, a collection of high-performance, low-impact sportswear powered by microalgae-derived components.
The Phase Series expands on WNDR Alpine’s achievements in developing highly effective materials derived from microalgae for its award-winning backcountry skis and snowboards.
The team collaborated with Swiss green chemistry pioneer Beyond Surface Technologies to develop miDori® bioWick WA, a 100% petroleum-free textile finish, formulated with microalgae oil and intended to move moisture away from an athlete’s skin to accelerate evaporation for better comfort. This microalgae oil is used in the AlgalTech® construction of WNDR Alpine skis and boards. While maintaining competitive performance, miDori® bioWick WA has about 80% smaller carbon footprint than a conventional wicking finish.
WNDR Alpine’s GM and Founder, Matt Sterbenz emphasized the importance of extending the brand’s range of microalgae-empowered outdoor products. “I think of the Phase Series as an important part of our progression to bring biobased innovation to life through products that benefit the mountain athlete.”
Each of the five items in the Phase Series is made from a variety of recycled and biobased materials intended for performance and comfort, including recycled nylon, recycled elastane, and Tencel made from eucalyptus, in addition to miDori® bioWick WA.
“It is the full package that sets it apart and makes it an industry first,” said Matthias Foessel, CEO of Beyond Surface Technologies.
