Imperial has been making hats for more than 100 years. For its next century, Imperial has made a commitment to sustainability with a goal of moving its entire lineup to sustainable materials by the end of 2025.
Its focus is on the development of high-grade performance fabrics made from recycled polyester that meets certification requirements of Global Recycled Standard and Oeko-Tex as proven to be free of harmful levels of toxic substances.
“Rather than launch the initiative with a handful of hats, we decided to work from our core out,” said Dan Parenti, senior vice president of product and marketing at Imperial. “The Original Performance X210P is by far our No. 1 best-selling cap, used in over a dozen different styles. So we attacked that one first and developed a recycled-polyester version of it: same fit, same look, same feel, same colors, just made from a more sustainable fabric.”
The sourcing of Oeko-Tex-certified organic cotton fabric has led to a third of all Imperial lines now being in alignment with the sustainability project, with all styles in its core collections (17 total) leading the way. In the coming year, Imperial is moving into its second-best-selling style, the 5054 Wrightson rope cap.
“Two-thirds of our color palette is already starting to be produced in this updated fabric, with more colors being added every month,” said Mike Wrightson, president of Imperial.
Imperial’s 2023 collection includes 20 new styles in addition to an expanded selection of color and print options for best-sellers. Featuring these innovative new fabrics are a new small-fit performance visor, three new jacquard knit styles, and the Hinsen Ponytail Cap.
The Hinsen has the same fit and feel as the best-selling L210P small-fit performance cap, with the addition of an open back panel and matching elastic cross bands that comfortably allows for a ponytail to fit through.
Three new winter knit caps are also part of the sustainability program with a majority of recycled polyester yarn in them: Whistler, Banff and St. Moritz.
Original microprint patterns composed of beachy elements, desert landscapes and winter scenes are now available for several styles including the best-selling Alter Ego performance cap.
“The future looks bright, and our sensibilities have changed from the dark neutrals we’ve been in for several seasons, to the optimistic, cheerful hues manifested in many of our 2023 prints,” said David Shaffer, senior vice president of sales. “Safeguarding that future by committing to more sustainable practices and materials creates long-term value for the brand, our customers and the planet.”