1. Designing With Intention

Yes, we’re cool – but we don’t follow trends. We solve problems through intentional, innovative design. 

From our patented tear-away HMZ™ (invented by our founder, Kym) to cooling technology and bug-repellent fabrics, every COgear piece is built with purpose – engineered for durability, adaptability and long-term comfort.

We recently partnered with a new trim supplier, allowing us to upgrade our hang tag materials to FSC-certified paper and cotton thread, with all trims now made to order. This also translates to less waste, no overstock, and fewer discarded tags and labels when standards change. 

Our patented tear-away HMZ™ is another example of design-first sustainability. Where traditional height solutions rely on multiple SKUs (wasteful) or alterations (costly and high-emissions), HMZ replaces both.

• One SKU replaces many
• Reduces warehouse waste, shipping emissions, and complexity
• Frees up capital for innovation
• Makes uniform rollouts faster and more efficient
• Inclusive by design – and proven by end-user feedback

By keeping our range small and smart, and improving on what already works, we streamline production and keep our much-loved styles in stock – all while reducing excess inventory and landfill.

2. Responsible Production & Transparency

We’re working towards full product-level transparency across, with the goal of listing manufacturing partners for every individual product we create. 

Currently, we partner with three trusted manufacturers, chosen for their commitment to safe, ethical, and fair production.

We’re proud to work with partners who align with our values and even prouder to show you exactly where they come from.

3. Packaging That Leaves Less Behind

We’ve removed plastic from our packaging as much as possible, and we’re on a mission to remove even more.

Garments now arrive folded and secured with cardboard wraps, eliminating any single-use plastic bags. Swing tags have been replaced with QR codes, and reused shipping cartons are now standard for warehouse stock. 

Where plastic and non-natural fibres remain, we’re actively working towards better alternatives – and engaging our suppliers and partners to join us.

Simplicity is our north star. We don’t believe in confusing our customers with industry jargon, so we keep it simple and report on our efforts – even when we miss the mark.

Every product in our range exists for a reason and every update is based on real feedback from real customers. We believe in doing fewer things exceptionally well, because that’s how you minimise waste and maximise impact.

Our garments are built to work as hard as you do, but a little TLC goes a long way. Look after your uniform and it’ll last longer, feel better, and perform in the way they’re designed to.

Washing

Each COgear design comes with individual washing instructions based on fabric composition. All of our gear has been pre-shrunk and industrial wash tested.

Always check the label but as a general rule of thumb:

• Cold or warm cycle only 
• Wash inside out to project tape and trims 
• Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals 
• Wash high-vis separately to keep colours bright

Drying

Line drying is best, but we get it – sometimes you’re doing a quick turnaround before your next shift or before flying out. A dryer works too, just keep it cool or warm, never hot (the tape doesn’t love the heat like we do 🌞).

Stains and Spot Treatment

Your workwear is designed to take a few hits, but it’s best to steer clear of any harsh stain removers, especially around the segmented tape area. Gentle spot treatment is best. And hey, if your gear has a few stains? It adds character! No one really loves brand new high-vis, anyway.

End of Life

Workwear doesn’t live forever – and it’s not meant to. Most garments have a lifespan of around 52 washes, which is why companies typically issue 5 shirts, 5 pants, and 1 jacket per year. That ensures you stay safe, compliant and visible all year round.

When your uniform has reached the end of its life, it doesn’t have to go straight into landfill. We encourage you to repurpose, reuse, or recycle where possible. Perhaps you can use them for your next at-home project. Not sure how to extend the life of your clothes or dispose of them responsibility? Reach out – we’re here to help. We’re actively exploring better end-of-life solutions across our supply chain.