The outdoor apparel industry is at the forefront of sustainability efforts, driven by consumer demand and environmental necessity. This thesis examines the adoption of circular economy (CE) principles within U.S. based outdoor apparel companies. Through qualitative research, including archival data analysis and semi-structured interviews with industry professionals, this study identifies current CE implementation strategies, challenges, and future opportunities, as well as other sustainable practices being followed. Findings indicate that while brands have integrated circular practices such as repair, recommerce, recycling, and sustainable material sourcing, significant barriers remain. A lack of infrastructure, limited investment, and technological constraints hinder full-scale CE adoption. Additionally, product complexity, particularly in technical outerwear, presents challenges for recycling, repairability, resale, and sustainable material sourcing. Consumer awareness also plays a critical role, as education on sustainable purchasing and product lifecycle maintenance is limited. Despite these challenges, the industry is making progress in sustainability through material innovation, PFAS-free alternatives, carbon footprinting, and energy and other resource reduction. Collaboration of stakeholders, including brands, suppliers, policymakers, and consumers, is essential for overcoming barriers to circularity. This research highlights the need for further development of CE practices and investment in CE infrastructure to accelerate the transition toward a more sustainable outdoor apparel industry. By identifying key practices and barriers, this study provides insights that can inform industry players in circular development. This thesis contributes to the limited literature on circular economy adoption in the U.S. outdoor apparel industry and underscores the importance of systemic change to achieve circularity within the industry.
