Bamboo has become the fabric du jour in recent times, gaining a lot of attention in the fashion industry and in textiles, for items like robes, towels, sheets. Here at Anchors and Dove, we're big fans, first incorporating the fabric into our polos.

So what's so great about bamboo and why should we consider it for yacht crew uniforms?

Super sustainable

Bamboo is pretty damn amazing – it's one of the fastest growing plants in the world, requiring minimal water. Once it's been harvested, it can replenish itself within just one year, plus it's pest resistant, so that means it doesn't need fertilisers or pesticides.

Did you know bamboo emits 30% more oxygen than the average tree? 

The environmental impacts alone are a win.

Regulates body temps

Crew comfort is such an important element we factor into our uniform designs, especially for those working in some of the warmer regions of the Caribbean or the Pacific. Bamboo works as an insulator, keeping you cool in warmer environments, and cosy when temperatures begin to drop. 

UV protectant

The fibres have a natural UV resistance - so important given how much time yachties can spend outdoors in the elements.

Sweat absorbent, antibacterial and odour-resistant

Bamboo is 40% more absorbent than even the finest organic cotton. This means that it wicks moisture away from the skin effectively, keeping you comfortable AND looking sharp. The antimicrobial and odour-resistant properties also mean it's likely to smell fresh for longer, without smelling like dirty laundry (good news for our wonderful stews on laundry!).

Gentle on skin

One of the most praised benefits of bamboo clothing is its luxuriously soft feel, but it's also hypoallergenic, meaning it won't irritate skin like many other natural fibres do. Perfect for sensitive skin.

Forever pieces

Well, not quite forever, but you get the drift. With the right care, garments are long-lasting in colour and shape, far exceeding the life of other materials. It's durability makes it the ideal fabric choice for functional uniforms in more physical roles such as those in yachting.

Do you consider fabric quality when purchasing your uniforms? Are you more interested in the environmental impact, or the functional benefits of bamboo? We'd love to hear your thoughts below.