EQPE: stylish skiwear that lasts

Our own brand EQPE (pronounced “ikwip”) was launched in conjunction with the Alpine World Ski Championships in Åre in 2019. The aim was to create stylish and functional skiwear adapted to the Scandinavian environment – high quality at an affordable price.

With a focus on sustainable design and collections that last for at least three years, the need for sales is reduced and more sustainable production is promoted. From 2023, it will also be possible to hire skiwear from the brand in Hundfjället, Sälen.

Timeless design in skiwear from EQPE – garments that work year after year

EQPE has quickly become one of SkiStar Shop's most prominent brands, with a wide collection of ski suits, mid-layers, hybrid jackets, down jackets, helmets and goggles for both children and adults. Since its inception, the brand has had a clear ambition – to offer sustainable, high-quality products that last over time. Today, EQPE garments are available in all our physical stores, as well as online.

Collections with a life cycle of at least three years

– Our philosophy is to create skiwear with a good fit, timeless design and high quality at an attractive price. By designing collections with a life cycle of at least three years, we reduce the need for sales and contribute to more sustainable production. We want our customers to be just as happy with their clothes after 10 seasons as they are after one," says Sara Kruse Eén, Head of Design & Development at EQPE.

Sara Kruse Eén, Head of Design & Development at EQPE.

The 2019 Alpine World Ski Championships were the start – today, our employees wear EQPE on the slopes

EQPE was the official clothing supplier for the 2019 Alpine World Ski Championships, and 1,500 volunteers wore the clothes during the championships – a clear mark of quality. Today, the workwear is also used by SkiStar's outdoor staff.

High production standards for reduced environmental impact

EQPE works actively to reduce its environmental impact and sets high standards for the use of materials and chemicals. All textile products are free from PFCs, phthalates and PVC, and no antibacterial additives, including silver, are used. Down products are made from certified down, and the brand never uses fur. All wool purchased is mulesing-free* to ensure animal-friendly and responsible production.

The goal: halving the climate footprint per garment by 2030

EQPE has set ambitious sustainability goals and is working to ensure that at least 40 per cent of the materials in its collections are recycled or bio-based by 2023. By 2025, the goal is to reach 60 per cent, and in the longer term, by 2030, the company aims to use only recycled or bio-based materials.

– Our vision is to create a sustainable wardrobe for skiers, without compromising on performance and style. We always strive to use recycled fibres wherever possible, as long as they meet our quality standards. We are actively working to find materials with a lower environmental impact and are collaborating with our suppliers to transition to renewable energy in production," says Sara Kruse Eén at EQPE.

Emissions analysis using digital tools

To reduce its climate impact, SkiStar has analysed EQPE's production using the Worldly/Higg Index, a digital tool that identifies where the largest emissions occur in the value chain. By carefully mapping these areas, the company can work actively to reduce its emissions, which facilitates, for example, the choice of materials in the design process.

Skiwear from EQPE is now also available to rent

Since 2023, it has also been possible to rent garments from EQPE. The service is currently only available in Hundfjället, Sälen, but there are plans to offer it at more destinations.

"Yes, in the long term, we want to be able to offer more guests the option of renting their skiwear, which is perfect for those who travel light. The weather can change dramatically, and you may not have brought that extra thick jacket from home, so you can rent it from us instead, which is smart, convenient and better for the environment," says Fanny Sjödin, Sustainability Manager at SkiStar.

A range that stands the test of time

As for EQPE's future plans, no major changes are planned; it is more a case of refining and improving the existing range.

‘We are not a fast fashion brand; we don't release completely new collections every season. Instead, we focus on stylish garments that stand the test of time. We want to make outdoor clothing available at reasonable prices so that more people can get out and experience the mountains, whatever the season. We simply want more people to get out into nature; that is our vision,’ concludes Sara Kruse Eén.

Image: EQPE cycling clothing for the summer season.

 
* Mulesing is a method used in sheep farming, mainly in Australia, to prevent flystrike in sheep and is strongly criticised by animal rights organisations.