• by Sarah Mahoney  @mahoney_sarah, February 21, 2011

Timberland is weaving a new fabric into its earth-friendly repertoire, integrating Bionic canvas in its spring designs for both men and women. The Stratham, N.H. based company says it has also added a new nano-coating to certain models.

Both help make the canvas stronger and more waterproof, while still delivering on the brand's eco-conscious promises. The company is using the canvas appears in footwear, such as its Earthkeepers taller boots, slip-ons and chukka boots, as well as outerwear.

Bionic canvas is made from 50% organic cotton, which is wrapped around a 38% recycled PET and 12% polyester core. (Think recycled soda bottles.) It says it is the first footwear brand to do so, making it 30% stronger than regular canvas, while still maintaining a natural cotton feel. The fabric dries 30% faster than 100% cotton canvas, and is twice as resistant to abrasions.

The company says it has also added a new nano process, called ion-mask technology by P2i, which further increases the fabric's ability to repel water.