Sustainable activewear guide
When it is time to buy new, there are a few things one ought to consider if they want to support and advocate a more sustainable economy. Determining what brands to support and purchase from can be tricky, so the following video and guide go through some things to look for. Find more info in the video on what sustainable materials are available, what to look for in companies, and a curated list of sustainable activewear brands below. Interested in other sustainable clothing brands? Check out the guide here, or this main page for more posts on curating a more simple and sustainable wardrobe.
The following guide is also sponsored by Wildling - check the bottom of this guide for more information on Wildling, as well as a code you can use for free shipping off your first order.
What to look for in sustainable activewear
The following outlines what to look out for if you’re shopping for a new activewear piece. Find links to helpful resources as well if you’re looking to dive deeper.
Materials
Natural fabrics - organic cotton, linen, hemp
Great for breathability, but not moisture resistant
Organic cotton is water intensive, so recycled cotton, linen, or hemp are great options
Semi natural fabrics - Modal, Tencel
Made from beechwood and eucalyptus, and use a combination of chemicals and water to make them a soft, silky fabric for clothing
Most of the chemicals and water can be reused in the manufacturing process, making it more resource-efficient
Synthetic fabrics - recycled polyester, recycled nylon, plant based plastics
If you need the performance properties of polyester, opt for a recycled option
More plant-based plastics are being made instead of conventional petroleum-based plastic, but there is still work to be done to ensure that they’re recyclable or completely degradable
Be sure to use a microfiber bag when washing any synthetic fabrics
For more information on fabrics, check out this comprehensive list
12 sustainable activewear brands
Below are a collection of sustainable, ethical activewear brands. Be on the lookout not only for sustainable materials, but also material certifications, third-party audits, and closed-loop or repair programs. For more info on certifications and labels, visit this site here.
Brands in the guide with an * indicate that there are both men’s and women’s products. Note that you may be able to find many of these brands secondhand as well if you’re on a budget.
*Wildling ($$-$$$) - Minimalist, barefoot shoes with sustainable materials
Girlfriend Collective ($$-$$$) - Circular, recycled activewear - click to get $10 off
Groceries Apparel ($$) - Recycled activewear and organic clothing made in Los Angeles
*Organic Basics ($$-$$$) - Basics, active and swim pieces in organic and recycled materials
*Pact ($$) - GOTS certified organic, fair trade cotton activewear and basics
*Patagonia ($$-$$$) - Outdoorwear with select sustainable materials and repair programs
*Satva Living ($$) - Organic cotton and recycled polyester for yoga and exercising
Summersalt ($$-$$$) - Stylish recycled polyester swimwear and activewear
*tentree ($$-$$$) - Sustainably made outer and activewear, plants 10 trees with each purchase
*Wolven ($$-$$$) - Fun prints and designs made with recycled polyester and modal
About Wildling
Wildling designs ethically made, minimal footwear (often referred to as "barefoot shoes"). Made of soft and predominantly natural materials, Wildlings are exceptionally light, allowing the freedom of movement and feeling of walking barefoot. If you're new to barefoot shoes, Wildlings perform more like a second skin that merely protect feet from injury and environmental factors, rather than interfering with their natural movement. Find a variety of styles on their website that use organic cotton, hemp, Tencel, wool, linen, and washi paper, combined with a highly flexible sole made from cork and recycled rubber. Use the discount code SIMPLYWILDLING for free shipping on your first order.
