FAQ

Everything you need to know about our upcycled pieces, sizing, orders and returns. If your question isn't answered here, write to us — we reply within two working days.

Our products

What are UPWIND products made from?

Our jackets, caps and bags are made from retired kitesurf and windsurf sails. When a kite has flown for years it becomes uneconomical to keep repairing, and it is usually thrown away. We collect those sails and cut them into new pieces. Our t-shirts and hoodies are made from cotton and recycled fabrics rather than sail material.

Is every jacket really unique?

Yes. Each Canopy™ jacket is cut from one specific retired kite, so the colours and panel layout of your jacket exist only once. That is why each one carries its own number — the jacket you order is the jacket in the photograph.

Are the jackets waterproof?

Sail fabric is lightweight and water-repellent, which makes the Canopy™ an excellent windbreaker for everyday wear. It is not a technical mountain shell, and we do not market it as fully waterproof.

Where are they made?

Our Canopy™ pieces are handmade, with much of the production carried out in Sri Lanka, close to where many of the sails are collected. You can read the full story on our story page.

How do I care for sail fabric?

Wash cold and hang to dry. Avoid tumble drying, ironing and bleach — sail fabric is technical material and high heat will damage the coating. Spot-clean where you can; it keeps the piece going far longer.

Sizing

Which size should I choose?

We publish measurements for every category rather than relying on generic S/M/L:

T-shirt size chart — chest width and length in cm, XS to XXL
Jacket size chart
Canopy™ jacket size chart
Cap size guide

Our t-shirts have an oversized cut. If you prefer a closer fit, take one size down from your usual size.

What size are the caps?

Our caps come in one size, built for a head circumference of about 59 cm, give or take 2 cm. Measure just above your ears, keeping the tape horizontal.

Orders, returns and exchanges

Can I return something?

Yes. You have 30 days from receiving your order to start a return. Items must come back unworn and undamaged, in their original packaging and with all tags and accessories. There is no restocking fee. Full details are in our return policy.

What are my options — refund, exchange or credit?

All three. You can have a full refund to your original payment method, exchange for another piece of equal or lower value, or take store credit for the same amount. Exchanges are sent once we receive the original item; if the new piece costs more, you pay the difference.

Who pays return shipping?

Return shipping is at your cost, except for exchanges or if the product is defective — in those cases we send you a free return label. We recommend a tracked service either way.

How do I start a return?

Email contact@upwind.world to get a return authorisation (RMA) number and instructions, then send the parcel to: Upwind, 92 Avenue Mozart, 75016 Paris, France. Please don't send anything back before you have the RMA number.

How long do refunds take?

We inspect returns on arrival, and refunds, exchanges and store credit are processed within 14 days at the latest.

What if I don't collect my parcel from the pickup point?

Parcels left uncollected at a pickup point are returned to the carrier, and we can't refund them. Please make sure you collect within the time your pickup point allows.

Custom pieces and kite donation

Can you make a jacket from my own kite?

Yes — this is one of our favourite things to do. Your old kite becomes a jacket that carries its own history. Get in touch and we will walk you through it.

I have an old kite. Can I send it to you?

Please do. Head to our donate a kite page and tell us the model, brand, size and condition, along with your city and country. We come back to you within two business days. Every sail we receive is a sail that doesn't go to landfill.