HEMP CLOTHING ISN’T ONLY ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY; ITS COOL AND FASHIONABLE. AND, NO, YOU CAN’T SMOKE IT.
Over the past few years, more and more clothing companies are “going green” with the use of sustainable fabrics and eco-friendly manufacturing processes. One fabric that has received a tremendous amount of attention is hemp. While some people might associate hemp with marijuana, others are realizing the true value of wearing it.
What is hemp?
Hemp generally refers to the strains of the cannabis plant approved for industrial use. These strains contain a very low level of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol); therefore, contrary to what you might think, you cannot get high from smoking your hemp shirt.
As a crop, hemp is environmentally friendly, since it requires few pesticides and no herbicides. Industrial hemp is produced throughout the world in such countries as Canada and China. Over the years, hemp has been used to produce everything from paper to biodegradable plastics and from fuel to clothing. In terms of a fabric for apparel, 100 percent of hemp fibers can be used, but oftentimes manufacturers blend hemp with other organic fibers, including cotton, silk and flax.
Hemp is a sturdy plant that grows quickly. The hemp fiber (termed “bast”) is found on the outside of the woody interior of the hemp stalk as well as right under the exterior of the bark. When produced on the same land as cotton, hemp produces 250 percent more fiber. It can also be renewed two or more times a year. Because nothing is wasted in the production process (the seeds are used for oil and food supplements) and hemp farming uses very little water, it is very cost effective. Furthermore, hemp fibers are longer, stronger and more mildew resistant than cotton. Hemp is also more effective than most other fabrics in blocking the sun’s harmful UV (ultraviolet) rays.
Hemp for clothing
Although hemp is often used for sails and tarps, hemp fibers aren’t just for making canvas. Hemp can be used to make every type of clothing, from T-shirts to shoes.
At Rawganique, you can find men’s and women’s clothing created from hemp and hemp blends. For men, they offer tees, button-down shirts, polo-style shirts, jackets, vests, hoodies, sweaters and more. Rawganique uses certified-organic European hemp blended with flax linen to make ultrasoft, comfortable clothing. No chemicals or pesticides are used in the growth of the plants or the processing of the apparel. The result is truly sustainable clothing that is breathable, eco-friendly and very stylish. The hemp clothing from Rawganique is usually priced between $30 and $100.
Hempy’s is an American clothing company that manufactures and distributes clothing and accessories created from hemp, organic cotton and recycled materials. Hempys.com is a fantastic place to purchase eco-friendly hemp wallets, belts, hats, shorts and other fashionable and affordable apparel. Hempy’s touts the benefits of hemp products by pointing to the minimal water pollution, air pollution and soil erosion caused during the agricultural process.
Sierra Trading Post is a popular Web site for men’s and women’s clothing as well as outdoor gear and outerwear. At SierraTradingPost.com, you can find an assortment of hemp-based clothing, including shirts, pants, sweaters, slip-on shoes, oxfords and even laptop cases.
Advantages Of Hemp
You may have read a lot of hype about hemp products in recent years, but there are real advantages to purchasing hemp clothing.
- Fiber strength. It may be lightweight, but hemp fiber is durable and long lasting. Some studies show hemp to be three times stronger than cotton. Hemp can also be blended with other fibers to make a variety of different types of apparel.
- Outdoor use. Because it’s mold- and UV-resistant, hemp clothing is perfect for outdoor wear. For example, hemp hats are ideal for those who are balding, since they protect your scalp from the sun’s damaging rays. Hemp fabric is also moisture wicking to keep your head and body cool and comfortable, no matter the weather.
- Environmentally friendly. The process of growing hemp does not use chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Hemp is a renewable resource, and very little water is used in farming hemp. Therefore, the purchase of hemp clothing is an eco-friendly practice. As we look to find ways to protect our environment, buying hemp is a step in the right direction.
