Matteo Rolando, Junior Product Manager at Salewa, has long relied on hemp. The material is used not only in apparel but especially in equipment, with a particular focus on backpacks. In this conversation, he explains what makes hemp so special for Salewa and why it is worth cultivating it in-house.

You have been working with hemp for quite some time – not only in apparel but also in backpacks, footwear, and equipment. Why is hemp so important for Salewa?

Matteo Rolando: At Salewa, we have been integrating hemp into our climbing and trekking collections for several years – a decision deeply rooted in both performance and philosophy. Our Alpine Hemp line, which extends beyond apparel to products like backpacks, strongly embodies our Resilient by Nature vision. Hemp’s natural properties are remarkable: it offers outstanding breathability, thermoregulation, UV resistance, and odor control – all with a pleasantly soft feel. Its structural strength is exceptional – hemp is one of the most durable natural fibers, capable of absorbing up to 30% of its weight in moisture while still keeping the wearer feeling dry.
From a sustainability perspective, hemp is equally convincing: it requires very little water, grows without pesticides, and contributes to soil health as well as carbon storage – characteristics that align perfectly with Salewa’s commitment to protecting alpine habitats. For consumers, the appeal is multifaceted: the material feels fresh, performs reliably in demanding conditions, and simultaneously conveys a message of ecological responsibility. With the decision to use hemp, Salewa combines technical performance with an ethical and ecological mindset – a powerful combination in today’s outdoor industry.

Why did you decide to cultivate hemp yourselves?

Matteo Rolando: Our decision to cultivate hemp ourselves – particularly in and around our headquarters in Bolzano – stems from the desire to further reduce environmental impact while increasing supply chain transparency. This project revives a traditional agricultural practice in the alpine region, where Italy once led in the cultivation of high-quality hemp – a heritage largely lost since the 1960s. In addition to its ecological benefits, this integrated approach strengthens the regional economy and underscores our long-term commitment to continuous innovation in sustainable materials. It is a conscious decision to merge tradition, regionality, and technical design into a forward-looking strategy.

Why is hemp so important when looking toward the future?

Matteo Rolando: Looking ahead, durability and sustainability will become increasingly crucial in the outdoor industry. As climbers, hikers, and adventurers demand gear that lasts longer and leaves a smaller footprint, hemp is an ideal solution. It combines high functionality, durability, breathability, and odor resistance with a lower environmental impact thanks to its regenerative cultivation and reduced resource requirements.
However, the integration of natural fibers into advanced technical gear is still evolving. Natural materials often face skepticism when it comes to meeting technical specifications, but Salewa embraces this challenge. Our hybrid solutions – such as combining hemp with organic cotton, recycled polyester, and Durastretch technology – provide the necessary elasticity and abrasion resistance required for alpine environments.
The Salewa Committed label further ensures that products meet strict ecological and social standards, including a high proportion of natural and recycled materials, chemical testing, fair production monitoring, and manufacturing that is as PFAS-free as possible.
In essence, hemp represents a bridge between performance and sustainability – an important path forward for the outdoor industry. Our approach is to educate and empower consumers through this innovation, guided by the belief that our equipment and our planet can be more resilient, cleaner, and more in tune with nature. We believe that Resilient by Nature is not just a slogan, but a promise.