bluesign

Understanding bluesign ® Certification

Products in this catalog with the bluesign® logo are made in a bluesign® certified facility

In a significant stride towards sustainable excellence, Challenge Sailcloth’s Thailand facility proudly announces its bluesign® certification. This esteemed recognition reaffirms the company’s unwavering commitment to environmentally responsible practices and the highest standards of sustainability within the sailcloth industry.

bluesign® certification, an internationally recognized standard for sustainable textile production, represents the pinnacle of respon - sible manufacturing within the textile industry. bluesign® employs stringent criteria and audits to ensure that the entire textile supply chain adheres to the highest standards of sustainability, safety, and resource efficiency

The bluesign® Criteria

bluesign® certification is rooted in a comprehensive set of criteria that encompass key aspects of sustainable textile production. These criteria are designed to minimize the environmental impact of the textile industry while prioritizing the well-being of workers and consumers. Some core aspects of the bluesign® criteria include:

Resource Productivity

bluesign® places a strong emphasis on resource efficiency, including reduced water usage, energy consumption, and the responsible use of chemicals.

Consumer Safety

Ensuring that textiles are free from harmful substances and comply with stringent safety standards to protect consumers.

Worker Health & Safety

Prioritizing the well-being of workers by assessing and minimizing exposure to hazardous substances and fostering safe working conditions.

Environmental Impact

Addressing the environmental impact of textile production by reducing emissions, waste, and the use of hazardous chemicals.

 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

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.