Activewear is moving toward sustainable materials and circular practices. These are the best brands to shop.
Polyester and nylon, two of the most widely used synthetic fabrics in activewear, pose significant environmental issues due to their production processes, use, and disposal. Both polyester and nylon are derived from petroleum, a non-renewable resource. The extraction and processing of petroleum contribute to environmental degradation, including habitat destruction and pollution.
The production of these synthetic fibers is energy-intensive, requiring large amounts of energy to extract the raw materials and additional energy for chemical processing and manufacturing, resulting in a high carbon footprint. Moreover, the manufacturing processes involve numerous hazardous chemicals, which can be released into the environment, contaminating water bodies and soil. For example, the production of nylon releases nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.
Adding to the issues, when polyester and nylon garments are washed, they shed microplastics, tiny plastic particles that can pass through wastewater treatment plants and enter rivers, lakes, and oceans. These microplastics can be ingested by marine life, entering the food chain and potentially impacting human health. While the durability of polyester and nylon can be seen as a benefit, it also means that these materials do not biodegrade easily. This contributes to long-term environmental pollution as the materials persist in the environment for hundreds of years.
Due to their non-biodegradable nature, discarded polyester and nylon products accumulate in landfills. As these materials break down very slowly, they occupy landfill space for extended periods, contributing to the growing problem of waste management. If polyester and nylon products are incinerated, they release toxic chemicals, including dioxins and other pollutants, into the atmosphere, harming air quality and posing health risks to humans and animals.
More attention on the recycling of polyester and nylon can reduce the need for virgin materials and minimize waste. Technologies for recycling these materials are improving, but more widespread adoption and infrastructure are needed. Research and development into biodegradable synthetic fibers or natural alternatives can provide more sustainable options.
Last year, leading activewear giant Under Armour debuted a fiber alternative to elastane (Spandex) created using a unique solvent-free process. “This new Neolast fiber represents a transformative innovation for Under Armour and the textile industry, embodying our commitment to building better products for our consumers and planet,” Kyle Blakely, Senior Vice President of Innovation at Under Armour, said in a statement. Other athleticwear giants including Lululemon and Athleta have also embraced sustainable materials such as recycled polyester. In March, Athleta announced the use of Cycora, a polyester-like material made from end-of-life textiles. In April, Lululemon expanded on its use of enzymatically recycled polyester.
Educating consumers about the environmental impacts of their choices and promoting the purchase of sustainable and high-quality garments that are designed to last can reduce overall consumption and waste. But widespread shifts in the industry is key; sustainable practices in the textile industry, such as reducing energy consumption, using renewable energy sources, and implementing closed-loop systems for chemical use, can significantly mitigate the negative impacts of athleticwear.
Sustainable activewear brands
Whether activewear is just about all you wear these days or you’re in need of some new eco-chic wear for the gym, these sustainable activewear brands have you covered. From recycled nylon and polyester to sustainably produced virgin fibers, you can flex your heavy lifting for the planet while you show off those biceps, too.
Girlfriend Collective
Girlfriend Collective’s main goal is to be as transparent as possible with its customers. That along with its dedication to size inclusivity and sustainability has launched it into fan-favorite status amongst green shoppers.
Most of its items are made from recycled plastic bottles and discarded fishing nets, along with OEKO-Tex-certified dyes. Its ethical manufacturers guarantee at least 125 percent of the local minimum wage for their workers.
Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices designs with longevity and circularity in mind. The company uses fabrics such as recycled PET and bluesign-certified CloudKnit. It has also partnered with the Better Cotton Initiative to continue to increase its sustainability commitment. All of the packaging is also recycled and recyclable.
Horizon Athletic
Founded by professional athlete Marlena Gabriel, Horizon Athletic creates high-performance activewear and swimwear inspired by life at the edge of sea and sky. Designed and made in Australia and Italy, the brand blends minimalist design with endurance-level functionality, using premium Italian regenerated nylon for its softness, compression, and breathability. Each piece is made to last with sustainability and longevity guiding every collection. Horizon Athletic’s approach is grounded in “responsibility without compromise,” offering timeless, technically refined garments that perform beautifully across both sport and stillness.
Wolven
While most athleticwear brands seem to keep their prints to a minimum, Wolven is all about the prints. A recurring theme on this list, Wolven also uses recycled plastic bottles in many of its garments as well as carbon-neutral modal fabrics. It has also partnered with NativeEnergy to carbon offset its operations footprint.
Wolven’s manufacturer is certified for fair labor, wages, work hours, health, safety, and environmental practices. The company also ships in eco-friendly packaging.
Pact
Pact is one of our favorite one-stop shops for all your sustainable basics, and that definitely includes activewear. The brand only uses natural, certified organic cotton without any harmful dyes. All facilities are Fair Trade certified, and the company uses carbon offsetting for shipments and thoughtful packaging. Pact’s Give Back Box also helps customers donate their old clothes to charities.
Groceries Apparel
Groceries Apparel crafts comfy activewear from natural materials, including organic cotton, eucalyptus, hemp, and linen, as well as recycled plastic and cotton. The company manufactures in its own factory in Los Angeles to ensure workers’ well-being. Overseeing all operations also allows the team to cut down on textile waste and increase garment traceability.
Inhala
Inhala was founded by two Peruvian yogis. The label uses innovative sustainable materials such as Econyl and Peruvian fair-trade organic cotton. The company is dedicated to zero-waste and plastic-free materials and design. It also collaborates with independent artists on collections to create unique prints. The beautiful yoga mats are also made from recycled natural rubber.
Reformer
Handmade in Los Angeles from recycled yarn, Reformer uses seamless knitting for a fit that feels as good on your body as it is for the planet. With a focus on exceptional fabrics and impeccable fit, you’ll want to wear your Reformer garments outside of the Pilates or yoga studio whenever and wherever possible.
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