Columbia Sportswear has unveiled three limited-edition jackets inspired by iconic characters in Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back.
Inspired by the costumes worn by Han Solo, Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker, the collection is named after the Rebels’ secret base on ice planet Hoth. In developing the Echo Base Collection, Columbia’s designers worked with Lucasfilm and it archives team to incorporate details of the original jackets worn in the classic movie, released in 1980.
With Columbia’s “tested tough” promise, the jackets include the brand’s technologies to ensure they can withstand the freezing conditions on planet Hoth, or other galaxies closer to home.
The limited-edition jackets, with vest combined, are made from water-resistant cotton-blend fabric and insulated with Omni-Heat Reflective lining. The Leia Organa Echo Base Jacket includes a stowable hood, seam piping and gusset sleeves, the Luke Skywalker Echo Base Jacket has a stowable hood and the Han Solo Echo Base Parka features multiple closures, a leather Rebel patch, and quilted faux-fur trimmed hood.
Columbia has also produced a limited run of the dark-brown Han Solo Archive Edition parkas, and has also collaborated with actor Harrison Ford to raise funds for Conservation International, a global organisation dedicated to the protection of nature. Ford has hand-signed each parka, and Columbia will donate total proceeds from their sale to Conservation International.
Only 1980 jackets of each style in the broad Echo Base Collection were produced. The jackets are individually numbered and contain references to Star Wars and the characters who wore them.
The jackets are being sold on Columbia’s website and at branded retail locations including China, Hong Kong, Japan and Korea, from Friday.