---
title: Heat pump maker’s retro sweats and joggers reframe climate tech as a lifestyle choice
description: With a highly wearable line of branded merch, Quilt gives heat pumps new appeal — and its customers a light-hearted way to advocate for climate tech.
---

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# [Heat pump maker’s retro sweats and joggers reframe climate tech as a lifestyle choice](https://www.trendwatching.com/innovations/heat-pump-makers-retro-sweats-and-joggers-reframe-climate-tech-as-a-lifestyle-choice)

 Written by [Liesbeth den Toom](https://www.trendwatching.com/innovations/author/liesbeth-den-toom) | Nov 12, 2024 6:15:00 AM

As clean technology faces renewed political headwinds, heat pump maker Quilt is taking an unconventional approach to building consumer advocacy. The California startup, which caught our attention earlier this year [with its design-forward heating and cooling units](https://www.trendwatching.com/innovations/quilt-unveils-a-compact-heat-pump-that-can-be-customized-to-look-at-home-in-any-room), just launched [a capsule collection of retro-style branded apparel](https://quiltmerch.myshopify.com/), including sweatshirts, pants, socks and hats.

The move represents a savvy pivot in how climate-tech companies engage with end users. While heat pumps have traditionally been viewed as utilitarian background infrastructure — equipment is often selected by HVAC contractors rather than homeowners, so incumbent manufacturers historically focused on trade relationships — Quilt is positioning its products as consumer-facing lifestyle choices worthy of declaration. The apparel line transforms an invisible home upgrade into a visible statement of values, tapping into the rise of ”[climate dads](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2023-08-04/the-climate-dads-have-arrived)” and others eager to advocate for clean energy solutions.

The timing is particularly pointed given the uncertain future of clean energy incentives. With Donald Trump [vowing to dismantle the Inflation Reduction Act’s tax credits and rebates](https://www.fastcompany.com/91223964/heat-pumps-are-cheaper-thanks-to-biden-buy-one-now-in-case-trump-kills-the-incentives) in his second term — in line with populist politicians in other parts of the world — companies like Quilt are racing to build mainstream momentum for heat pump adoption while government support remains. By making climate action fun, communal and identity-driven rather than merely sensible and ”the right thing to do,” brands can ensure that sustainable choices maintain their appeal even as policy tailwinds shift.

[View full post](https://www.trendwatching.com/innovations/heat-pump-makers-retro-sweats-and-joggers-reframe-climate-tech-as-a-lifestyle-choice)

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