by Gemma Delaney

Ever consider how disposable our workout gear seems compared to our daily wardrobe? While the resale boom benefits everyday fashion garb, we repeatedly neglect the footprint left by our beloved athleisure. The joy we derive from sporting chic activewear raises questions about its less cheering ecological consequences.

How often do we purchase secondhand fitness apparel? The thought of wearing someone else’s pre-loved activewear might feel off-putting to some, leading workout items to be discarded rather than rehomed. Consequently, we endlessly replace active gear recognizing little of the impact on our environment.

Sustainable Steps Towards A Green Fitness Wardrobe

‘Sustainability has taken centre stage in consumer awareness, and it’s refreshing to see it making headway within fitness circles,’ explains Puravi Joshi, respected yoga and meditation instructor and founding spirit behind MYSA London. When acquiring workout attire, consider a “one in, one out” policy – discard your older items responsibly, such as donations to charities or local recycling initiatives.

A report from a renowned global fashion search platform revealed a surge in searches for specific sustainable materials last year. Econyl increased by 102 per cent, organic cotton by 52 per cent, and Tencel by 42 per cent. We’re not only investing in durable wardrobes but beginning to question the content of our decidedly unsustainable workout clothes.

The manufacturing methods aren’t the only sustainability concern. Washing these materials releases millions of microplastic fragments into our waterways, contaminating marine ecosystems and poisoning its inhabitants.

Spot-Light On Sustainable Activewear Brands

Where can we consciously shop for sustainable activewear minimizing our environmental footprint and prolonging our gym wear lifespan? Below is a guide to conscious activewear brands committed to curbing the ecological toll of our love for fitness.

PB-Perfect Sustainability with Picture Organic Clothing

Picture Organic Clothing takes sustainability to heart in every step of production, from eco-friendly raw materials, manufacturing practices, even to product shipping. The brand sources renewable materials like organic cotton and recycled plastic to craft their ethical activewear. In 2018, Picture launched the ‘Picture For Good’ initiative to channel funds and expertise towards climate change solutions. They received a B-Corp certification in 2019 commending their climate action efforts.

Goodfit: The Resale Revolution for Activewear

Goodfit is the quintessential secondhand platform for top-quality workout gear. Goodfit curates active apparel from various sources, including donations by fitness influencers. Their collections are sold monthly with 5% of profits funneled to a selected charity. Inventory overflow is creatively repurposed into fitness accessories, ensuring minimal waste production in operations. Goodfit is the brainchild of Chloe, a former top Depop seller turned slow fashion advocate.

Mindful Movement with Organic Basics

Organic Basics taps into the power of organically grown Aegean cotton for its activewear line. Avoiding the use of toxic chemicals protects soil health and abates potential contamination. The brand partners with factories to decrease textile waste and ensure recycling of off-cuts, thus reducing the emission of harmful greenhouse gases.

P.E Nation Pledges Performance with Purpose

P.E Nation promises premium and conscious gear, considering the welfare of humans, animals, and the environment. Every item in their collection bears the ‘conscious nation’ symbol, signifying its makeup of sustainable and/or recycled materials.

Pocket Sport: Light and Eco-Friendly Gear

Founded by fitness coach Louise Thompson and her comrade Edward Page, Pocket Sport aims to inspire movement. Their Morisot Shorts, made from recycled polyester, are lightweight, breathable and come fitted with a pocket for simplicity and functionality.

Eco-Conscious Swimwear by SLO Active

SLO Active creates sustainable swimwear for active women using plant-based neoprene substitute, Yulex. Every purchase contributes to an ocean charity of the customer’s choice, and a tree is planted for every order.

Comfort Meets Care with Bamboo Socks

BAM plies their socks trade responsibly, closely monitoring the supply chain to understand their products’ environmental impact. In comparison with the traditional cotton alternative, BAM socks provide a more eco-friendly choice – consuming less water, creating fewer emissions and using pesticide-free farming methods.

Embrace Your Curves with CONTUR

CONTUR harnesses ECONYL®, a recycled yarn made from recovered ocean plastics and discarded fishing nets. The fabric is flexible and supportive, perfectly tailored for diverse body shapes and on-the-go support.

Kin: Homely Workout Attire with Heart

Kin prioritizes wellbeing and shuns PVC, latex, and artificial rubber. With ethical factories, a responsible supply chain and animal-inspired designs, Kin also donates a percentage of profits each month to animal charities and runs mental health initiatives.

Saalt: Sustainable Period Care for Active Women

Saalt is a B Corp-certified organization that commits 2% of its earnings to help improve menstrual health, education, and sustainability. The company offers easy-to-use period cups, making working out during your cycle more comfortable and less harmful to the environment.

Weather Resistance and Sustainability Synthesized by The North Face

The North Face combines weatherproof technology with sustainability through their FUTURELIGHT jacket, an entirely recycled polyester shell layer. The vibrant colour selection ensures visibility during night workouts.

Embrace Hydration with Ocean Bottle

Ocean Bottle is a stylish, reusable bottle that prevents roughly 1,000 plastic bottles (by weight) from polluting the sea. Made from stainless steel and ocean plastic, the bottle insulates hot beverages for up to nine hours, is leakproof, and comes with an easy-carry loop.

In conclusion, strive for sustainable alternatives when adding to your fitness wardrobe. Opt for secondhand or invest in durable, ethical activewear. Read reviews, research responsibly and say goodbye to unethical fitness gear.

Sustainability, Activewear, Second Hand, Fitness Fashion, Organic Cotton, Recycled Materials, Picture Organic Clothing, Goodfit, Organic Basics, P.E Nation, Pocket Sport, SLO Active, BAM, CONTUR, Kin, Saalt, The North Face, Ocean Bottle