The Future is Now, and it Can’t Wait.

The legacy of Challenge Sailcloth spans four generations in the sailing textile industry. In 1917, our family founded Howe and Bainbridge, one of the first sailcloth companies in the USA. In the 1930s, DuPont® invented synthetic polyester and nylon fibers which we used to create the first Cordura® nylon mainsail cloth. Moving from tar-impregnated cotton sails to technical synthetic textiles started a new era of sailboat racing and innovation. We’ve been leaders at the forefront of textile innovation for over 100 years. Looking forward, our focus is entirely on sustainability within the textile industry.

In 2020, Challenge Sailcloth launched a new company called Challenge Outdoor, spearheaded by world champion sailor and technical textiles expert, Hale Walcoff. Hale had a vision to produce light, durable, and UV resistant materials for the outdoor sports industry using 100% recycled polyester. He wanted to produce fabrics that were best in class for the industry while being environmentally friendly. Challenge Outdoor is dedicated to reducing real-world carbon emissions and promoting clean textile technology. As outdoor enthusiasts, it is our duty to tackle the climate crisis.

This project would not have been possible as recently as five years ago, because recycled and natural component manufacturers had not achieved the performance levels required in strenuous and demanding outdoor sports. Thankfully, the global community demanded green tech, and the investment followed. Moving full speed ahead, our development efforts will be focused on sustainable innovation across our product lines. This is our new race against the clock and a challenge to the industry. Solving the climate crisis requires world-wide collaboration and we welcome you to get on board.

Sustainability Starts with You

Sustainable Trifecta

  • Recycled Fabric

    ECOPAK™ is the world’s only composite fabric made with 100% recycled fiber and film. Constructed with REPREVE® rPET fiber, our fabric lasts longer, absorbs 80% less moisture, and has better UV resistance and color retention than traditional laminated nylon.

  • Non-Toxic Adhesive

    These materials are laminated into composite fabrics, using our proprietary adhesive, which does not contain toxic solvents or VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds). Others laminate with solvent-based adhesives long with energy-intensive drying ovens. They may claim to be ‘carbon neutral’ by buying carbon-offsets after polluting; Challenge has taken the progressive step of eliminating harmful chemicals from the start!

  • Recycled Film

    The proprietary Challenge RUV™ film backing is 100% recycled and 97% UV resistant. Challenge RUV™ lasts 5 times longer in the sun than conventional film used in other fabrics - a big breakthrough in extending performance

Energy-Efficient Manufacturing

Our textiles are produced at eco-friendly facilities powered by hydroelectric energy.
Our innovative manufacturing system eliminates expensive and energy intensive drying ovens, hot rooms for curing, and many other processes needed to laminate Nylon and Polyester with solvent-based adhesive.

We maintain stock in both the U.S. and Asia for better efficiency with our manufacturing partners and brands.