Materials

Better Materials | Porter West
Focused on Fit. Committed to Better.
Since launching Porter West in 2018, we’ve believed that great style starts with great materials — not just in how they look and feel, but in how they’re made, sourced, and worn over time. We're building a modern men’s wardrobe that doesn’t compromise: not on fit, not on comfort, and definitely not on responsibility.
We don’t just aim to make better clothes — we aim to make clothes better. That begins with the fibers we choose.
It All Starts With Cotton
Cotton is the foundation of most of what we make — from everyday tees and tailored shirts to jeans and sweatshirts. That’s why we’re committed to sourcing it the right way.
We’re working to shift our cotton usage toward more sustainable alternatives, including:
- Organic cotton – Grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers
- Recycled cotton – Repurposed from existing textiles, reducing waste
- Certified cotton – Sourced from partners with clear traceability and environmental standards
This move not only helps protect soil and water systems but also supports healthier farming communities and long-term quality for our customers.
Rethinking Polyester
We use polyester in performance pieces and outerwear where durability, lightness, and flexibility matter. But traditional polyester is made from virgin petroleum — and we know that has to change.
That’s why we’re actively increasing our use of recycled polyester, made from post-consumer plastic like bottles and textile waste.
Our long-term goal is to reduce reliance on virgin polyester and transition to innovative, lower-impact alternatives — without compromising performance.
We’re also staying close to the evolving world of textile-to-textile recycling, keeping our eyes on what’s next.
Respect for Animals
Animal-based materials make up a small part of our collection, but they demand our full attention. We believe in respecting animals at every level of the supply chain, and we never source from suppliers that allow inhumane practices.
Here’s where we stand:
- Wool – We are phasing out non-certified sources and banning wool from sheep subjected to mulesing.
- Down – We only work with suppliers that certify humane practices and prohibit force-feeding and live-plucking.
- Leather – We keep leather use minimal and are exploring responsible alternatives.
Ethical sourcing isn’t an option — it’s a requirement.
Investing in What’s Next
Innovation is part of our DNA. As we grow, we’re committed to partnering with material innovators who are redefining how clothing is made — not just what it’s made from.
We’re experimenting with:
- Regenerated fibers made from textile waste
- Circular production models that keep materials in use longer
- Next-gen materials that reduce water, energy, and chemical use from the start
The future of fashion is smarter, cleaner, and more circular — and we plan to be a part of that change.