The Best Sustainable Activewear Brands

As we become more aware of the impact our choices have on the environment, sustainable activewear is gaining popularity. Choosing brands that prioritise eco-friendly practises not only helps the planet but also supports a healthier lifestyle. Below, we explore some of the best sustainable activewear brands that are making a difference in the industry.

Key Takeaways

• Sustainable activewear brands use recycled materials and natural fabrics.
• Many brands offer a wide range of sizes to promote inclusivity.
• Transparency in manufacturing processes is key for ethical brands.
• Choosing eco-friendly activewear supports better environmental practises.
• Demand for sustainable clothing is driving more brands to adopt eco-friendly methods.

1. Girlfriend Collective

Girlfriend Collective is a standout in the world of sustainable activewear. This brand is known for its commitment to inclusivity and eco-friendliness. They offer a wide range of products, from leggings to sports bras, all made from recycled materials. For instance, their popular Compressive Leggings are crafted from 25 recycled water bottles!

Key Features:

• Size Inclusivity: Ranges from XXS to 6XL.
• Sustainable Materials: Utilises recycled fabrics, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
• Affordable Pricing: Products range from $40 to $150, making them accessible to many.

Popular Products:

Girlfriend Collective not only focuses on style but also promotes body positivity, showing that all bodies can be active and fit in their clothing. Their take-back scheme, ReGirlfriend, helps keep textiles out of landfills by offering store credits for returned items, regardless of the brand.

2. Patagonia

Patagonia is a B Corp that focuses on the triple bottom line: profit, people, and planet. This brand is well-known for its commitment to sustainability and outdoor activities. Here are some key points about Patagonia:

• 1% for the Planet: Patagonia donates 1% of its sales to environmental causes.
• Fair Trade Certified: Many of its products are made under fair trade conditions.
• Recycled Materials: The brand uses recycled materials in its activewear, helping to reduce waste.

Product Range

Patagonia offers a variety of activewear suitable for different activities. Here’s a quick look at some of their popular items:

Patagonia is a leader in sustainable activewear, setting a high standard for other brands to follow. Their focus on recycled materials and fair trade practises makes them a top choice for eco-conscious consumers.

3. Reformation

Reformation is a brand that stands out for its adorable clothing and strong commitment to sustainability. They focus on using eco-friendly materials and have a variety of practises that make them a leader in the sustainable fashion industry. Here are some key points about Reformation:

• RefRecycling: Customers can return old Reformation items for store credit.
• Climate Positive: The brand aims to give back more to the planet than it takes.
• Sustainable Materials: They use recycled polyester and other eco-friendly fabrics in their products.

Reformation is not just about style; it’s about making a positive impact on the environment. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in every piece they create, making them a top choice for conscious consumers.

4. Pangaia

Pangaia is a sustainable fashion brand that started in 2018, aiming to create a business that works in harmony with nature. This brand focuses on what it calls Earth Positivity, which means giving back more to the planet than it takes away. Pangaia uses innovative materials and has a strong commitment to reducing waste through recycling and repurposing.

Key Features of Pangaia Activewear

• Plant-Based Materials: Their activewear is made from a special nylon sourced from castor beans and a plant-based elastane, which provides excellent stretch.
• Natural Anti-Odour Treatment: The clothing is treated with peppermint oil, which helps to keep it fresh and odour-free.
• Transparency: Pangaia shares its environmental impact reports, showing how it works to be responsible and sustainable.

Popular Products

Pangaia is a brand that truly cares about the environment, making it a great choice for those looking to make sustainable fashion choices.

By focusing on innovative materials and ethical practises, Pangaia stands out in the activewear market, especially in light of the unsustainable growth of fast fashion. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in every piece they create, making them a leader in eco-friendly activewear.

5. MPG Sport

MPG Sport is a BIPOC-owned activewear brand that has been around for nearly 20 years. They focus on creating stylish and durable products while also being committed to social and environmental responsibility. Their items are not only affordable but also designed to last, making them a great choice for anyone looking for sustainable activewear.

Key Features of MPG Sport:

• B Corp Certified: This means they meet high standards for social and environmental performance.
• Recycled Materials: Many of their products are made from recycled polyester, helping to reduce waste.
• Innovative Technology: Their clothing often includes features like Polygiene technology, which helps keep garments fresh and odour-free.

Popular Products:

MPG Sport is dedicated to improving their practises and being transparent about their supply chain. They partner with various third-party organisations to enhance their sustainability efforts.

In summary, MPG Sport stands out for its commitment to quality, affordability, and sustainability, making it a top choice for activewear enthusiasts who care about the planet.

6. Mate the Label

Mate the Label is a brand that focuses on natural and organic materials. They are committed to creating sustainable activewear that is both stylish and functional. The brand operates under the principles of the "Mate 8", which includes commitments like being clean, ethical, and plastic-free. This approach not only supports environmental sustainability but also promotes social justice.

Key Features

• Climate Neutral Certified: Mate the Label ensures that their production processes do not harm the environment.
• Detox Your Closet Programme: Customers can send in used items for recycling, receiving store credit in return.
• Women-Centred: The brand prioritises women’s needs in its designs and production.

Popular Products

"We believe that prioritising the health of the planet and its people is an urgent matter."

— Kayti Carr, Founder

Mate the Label is perfect for low-impact workouts and everyday wear. Their products are designed to be comfortable and stylish, making them a great choice for both the gym and lounging at home. With a size range from XS to 3X and prices ranging from $58 to $128, there’s something for everyone in their collection.

7. Tentree

Tentree is a B Corporation that focuses on sustainability and environmental responsibility. For every item sold, they plant ten trees, aiming to plant 1 billion trees by 2030. So far, they have planted over 71 million trees! Their products are made from natural and recycled materials, ensuring a minimal impact on the planet.

Key Features:

• Best For: Silky soft everyday wear
• Size Range: XS-XL
• Price Range: $30-$100
• Thickness: Thin
• Coverage Level: Low

Popular Products:

1. InMotion Longline Active Bra: Comfortable for both exercise and lounging.
2. TreeBlend Tank: A must-have for activewear, made from recycled materials.
3. InMotion Bike Shorts: Perfect for spring, featuring hidden pockets.

Tentree believes that every small action counts towards a healthier planet. Their commitment to planting trees and using sustainable materials makes them a leader in eco-friendly activewear.

8. The North Face

The North Face is a well-known brand that has a strong focus on sustainability. They are committed to using eco-friendly materials and reducing waste. Here are some key points about their efforts:

• Recycled Materials: The North Face aims to ensure that 100% of its top materials are recycled or responsibly sourced by 2030.
• Greenhouse Gas Reduction: They are working to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions in their supply chain.
• Renewed Programme: This initiative gives used gear a second chance, helping to reduce waste.

Key Products

The North Face is not just about making clothes; they are about making a difference. Their commitment to the environment is evident in every product they create.

In summary, The North Face stands out for its dedication to sustainability and innovative practises, making it a top choice for eco-conscious consumers. Explore our collection of men’s clothing with free shipping on all orders, including stylish options like shorts and activewear.

9. Tenere

Tenere is a fresh activewear brand that started in 2021, focusing on radical transparency in its production. Each piece of clothing comes with a QR code, allowing you to track its journey through the supply chain. The brand is dedicated to four main areas of sustainability:

• Environmental consciousness
• Ethical labour
• Social advancement
• Principled corporate governance

Tenere believes in balancing profit with purpose, and they openly share their goals and areas for improvement on their manifesto page. They also highlight their certifications, including Global Recycled Standard and Fair Labour Association compliance.

Key Products

Tenere is committed to making a positive impact on the environment while providing stylish and functional activewear. Their focus on sustainability is evident in every aspect of their business.

10. Prana

Founded in 1992, Prana is a trailblazer in the sustainable clothing industry, originating from California. This brand is renowned for its activewear and versatile everyday essentials. Prana was one of the first companies to partner with Fair Trade USA in 2010, and since then, it has transformed 11 factories into Fair Trade Certified facilities, positively impacting over 26,000 workers globally.

Key Achievements

• Fair Trade Certified: Prana has been a pioneer in ethical clothing production.
• Bluesign Partner: Committed to sustainable textile production since 2012.
• Plastic-Free Packaging: Eliminated plastic from all product packaging by 2021.

Popular Products

Prana aims to have all its products made from preferred fibres and materials by 2025, ensuring they are safe and sustainable.

Why Choose Prana?

• Ethical Production: Frequent visits to factories ensure fair production standards.
• Comfort and Performance: Natural materials provide antibacterial properties, keeping you cool during workouts.
• Sustainability Goals: Committed to using organic and recycled materials in all products by 2028.

Prana continues to lead the way in sustainable activewear, making it a top choice for eco-conscious consumers.

11. Everlane

Everlane is a well-known online brand based in San Francisco, loved by those who care about the environment. Since its start in 2010, it has shown a strong commitment to sustainability. The brand focuses on creating long-lasting products through an ethical supply chain. Currently, 97% of Everlane’s polyester and nylon comes from certified recycled materials, and over 75% of its cotton is organic. They also work with partners like bluesign and GOTS to ensure their production processes are eco-friendly.

Key Products

• The Perform 24/7 Leggings: These high-waisted leggings are lightweight and compressive, made from 58% recycled nylon.
• The Perform Bike Shorts: Perfect for any activity, these shorts are fitted but comfortable, avoiding the squeeze that many activewear shorts can cause.
• The Perform Longline Bra: This sports bra features a classic design with double-layered lining and a comfortable elastic band.

Pricing Overview

Everlane’s focus on sustainability and ethical practises makes it a top choice for eco-conscious shoppers.

With its stylish and durable activewear, Everlane continues to lead the way in sustainable fashion, ensuring that you can look good while making a positive impact on the planet. Don’t forget to check out their collection of sunglasses for a complete activewear look!

12. Outerknown

Outerknown is a sustainable clothing brand founded in 2015 by professional surfer Kelly Slater and designer John Moore. Based in Los Angeles, the brand is dedicated to creating ethical and eco-friendly clothing. They focus on fair labour practises and work with B Corp-certified suppliers. Here are some key points about Outerknown:

• Sustainability Initiatives: The brand has a roadmap aiming for 100% circular products by 2030.
• Materials: They use renewable energy and regenerative farming practises.
• Reselling Platform: Outerworn allows customers to resell their used Outerknown items.

Key Products

Outerknown is committed to making a positive impact on the planet while providing stylish and functional activewear.

In summary, Outerknown stands out for its commitment to sustainability and ethical practises, making it a top choice for eco-conscious consumers.

13. MOVE by MATE

MOVE by MATE is a brand that focuses on creating organic activewear that is not only comfortable but also kind to the environment. This women-led initiative is committed to providing essentials that are clean from seed to skin. Here are some key points about MOVE by MATE:

• Organic Materials: The brand uses organic cotton, which is better for the environment compared to conventional cotton. This is because it requires less water and avoids harmful pesticides.
• Sustainable Practises: MOVE by MATE has received several certifications, including Climate Neutral, GOTS, and B Corp, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.
• Versatile Designs: Their activewear is designed for both low-impact workouts and everyday wear, making it a great choice for various activities.

MOVE by MATE aims to lead the clean fashion movement, prioritising the health of the planet and its people. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in every piece they create, making them a standout choice for eco-conscious consumers.

14. Iron Roots

Iron Roots is a standout brand for those seeking 100% plastic-free workout clothes. Founded in 2018 by three friends, this brand was born out of frustration with the plastic-heavy sportswear market. They focus on using natural materials like hemp, eucalyptus, and beechwood, which are not only sustainable but also require less water to grow compared to traditional cotton.

Key Features:

• Plastic-Free: All products are made without synthetic materials.
• Sustainable Fabrics: Utilises organic materials certified by GOTS and FSC.
• Ethical Production: Partners with local factories in Europe that adhere to fair production standards.

Why Choose Iron Roots?

1. Eco-Friendly: Their commitment to using natural materials helps reduce plastic pollution.
2. Comfortable Fit: The fabrics chosen have properties that keep you cool and comfortable during workouts.
3. Local Production: By manufacturing in Europe, they minimise carbon emissions from shipping.

Iron Roots is not just about style; it’s about making a positive impact on the planet. Their dedication to sustainability is a breath of fresh air in the activewear industry.

With their innovative approach, Iron Roots is paving the way for a more sustainable future in fitness fashion. If you’re looking to make a difference while staying active, this brand is definitely worth considering!

15. Vuori

Best for: Ethical Practises

Vuori is an athletic and leisure wear brand that has quickly gained popularity. Founded in California, it has expanded to major UK retailers like Selfridges and Harrods. With the rise of conscious consumerism, Vuori recognises that many customers prefer to support sustainable and ethical brands. To meet this demand, Vuori is committed to reducing plastic use by 80% across its supply chain.

Sustainability Efforts

Vuori ensures that its supply chain is sustainable by partnering only with manufacturers that have clear environmental policies. This means they work with vendors who actively try to lessen their environmental impact and respect local water usage. Here are some of their key initiatives:

• Plastic Reduction: Aiming for an 80% reduction in plastic use.
• CleanHub Partnership: Collaborating with CleanHub to offset plastic impact by 100%.
• Ethical Manufacturing: Only working with manufacturers that adhere to strict environmental standards.

Vuori is dedicated to making a positive impact on the planet while providing high-quality activewear that meets the needs of modern consumers.

Product Range

Vuori offers a variety of products that combine style and sustainability. Their collections include:

1. Activewear: Designed for performance and comfort.
2. Leisurewear: Perfect for casual outings or lounging.
3. Eco-friendly Materials: Utilising sustainable fabrics in their designs.

In summary, Vuori stands out as a brand that not only focuses on style but also prioritises ethical practises and sustainability in the fashion industry. Their commitment to reducing plastic and partnering with responsible manufacturers makes them a top choice for eco-conscious consumers.

16. TALA

TALA is a brand that focuses on sustainable activewear. They create clothing that not only looks good but also feels great while you exercise. Their designs are made to fit well and are affordable, making them a popular choice for many.

Commitment to Sustainability

• TALA operates from an office powered entirely by renewable energy.
• The team encourages staff to use public transport, reducing their carbon footprint.
• They challenge their overseas partners to maintain ethical practises throughout the supply chain.

Why Choose TALA?

• Stylish Designs: TALA’s activewear is designed to make you look and feel good.
• Affordable Prices: They offer quality clothing without breaking the bank.
• Environmental Awareness: The brand is dedicated to raising awareness about the exploitation of people and the planet.

TALA believes that fashion should not come at the cost of our planet. They strive to make a positive impact through their practises and products.

Product Range

TALA is a great choice for anyone looking to combine style with sustainability in their activewear. Their commitment to the environment and ethical practises makes them a standout brand in the world of fashion.

17. Gorilla Wear

Gorilla Wear is a brand that stands out for its commitment to sustainable logistics. This US-based gym wear company not only uses recycled materials in its products but also focuses on reducing its carbon footprint through innovative transport solutions.

Key Features

• Recycled Materials: All products are made from recycled fabrics, helping to reduce waste.
• Eco-Friendly Packaging: The brand uses recyclable packaging to minimise environmental impact.
• Sustainable Delivery: Gorilla Wear partners with low-emission courier services and optimises delivery routes to cut down on emissions.

Impact on the Environment

Gorilla Wear is aware that global transport contributes significantly to carbon emissions. By focusing on the last-mile delivery, which is often overlooked, they aim to make a difference. Their efforts include:

• Partnering with delivery services that have carbon offset programmes.
• Using vehicles that produce fewer emissions.
• Streamlining logistics to further reduce their environmental impact.

Gorilla Wear is not just about making gym clothes; it’s about making a positive change in the world through responsible practises.

In summary, Gorilla Wear is a brand that combines style with sustainability, making it a great choice for eco-conscious consumers looking for activewear that aligns with their values.

18. Gngr Bees

Founded in 2019 by Natalia Grisard, Gngr Bees is a London-based activewear brand that stands out for its commitment to sustainability. Driven by purpose, not profit, this brand focuses on using materials that would otherwise be discarded. So far, Gngr Bees has successfully reclaimed over 45,871 plastic bottles, 13,747 sheets of newspaper, and 4,037 kilogrammes of fishing nets.

Key Features of Gngr Bees:

• Sustainable Materials: The brand uses recycled materials in its clothing, ensuring a lower environmental impact.
• Community Engagement: Gngr Bees supports various community projects, including Azizi Life and Beach Collective.
• Environmental Impact: They have planted 2,712 mangroves and recycled 1,033 kilogrammes of ocean-bound plastic.

Gngr Bees has designed its entire supply chain with sustainability in mind, from raw materials to packaging and logistics. This approach not only helps the planet but also encourages consumers to feel good about their purchases.

Gngr Bees emphasises the importance of mapping supply chains to maintain organic integrity. By understanding the flow of materials and processes, companies can enhance their credibility and commitment to organic standards, ultimately benefiting both consumers and the environment.

19. Eco-Stylist

Eco-Stylist is a platform dedicated to promoting sustainable fashion. They focus on brands that meet strict environmental and ethical standards. Here’s what makes Eco-Stylist stand out:

• Curated Selection: They feature brands that are committed to eco-friendly practises.
• Transparency: Each brand is evaluated based on its sustainability claims.
• Community Engagement: Eco-Stylist encourages consumers to make informed choices about their clothing.

Key Features of Eco-Stylist

Eco-Stylist aims to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable clothing.

By focusing on sustainable and toxin-free living, Eco-Stylist helps consumers find stylish options without compromising the planet. They also provide a newsletter for those interested in the latest sustainable fashion tips and stories. Explore their collection of women’s clothing and enjoy free shipping on all orders!

20. One Golden Thread

One Golden Thread is a brand that focuses on creating sustainable activewear with a strong commitment to the environment. Their mission is to produce high-quality clothing while reducing waste and promoting ethical practises. They use eco-friendly materials and ensure that their production processes are as green as possible.

Key Features of One Golden Thread:

• Sustainable Materials: They primarily use organic cotton and recycled fabrics.
• Ethical Production: All garments are made in fair-trade certified factories.
• Size Inclusivity: The brand offers a wide range of sizes to cater to all body types.

One Golden Thread believes that fashion should not come at the cost of the planet. They strive to create pieces that are not only stylish but also environmentally friendly, making it easier for consumers to make sustainable choices in their activewear.

21. CleanHub

CleanHub is a brand dedicated to making a positive impact on the environment. They focus on reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable practises. Their mission is to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable clothing.

Key Features of CleanHub:

• Plastic Credit System: CleanHub is the first plastic credit system verified by TÜV SÜD, ensuring transparency and accountability in their operations.
• Partnerships for Change: They collaborate with various organisations to enhance their sustainability efforts.
• Community Engagement: CleanHub actively involves the community in their initiatives, encouraging everyone to participate in reducing plastic waste.

Why Choose CleanHub?

1. Innovative Solutions: They offer unique ways to tackle plastic pollution.
2. Ethical Practises: CleanHub prioritises ethical sourcing and production methods.
3. Educational Resources: They provide information on sustainable living and conscious consumerism.

CleanHub believes that every small action counts towards a larger goal of sustainability. By choosing brands that care, consumers can make a significant difference in the fight against plastic waste.

In summary, CleanHub stands out as a leader in the sustainable activewear movement, making strides towards a cleaner planet while promoting responsible consumerism. Their commitment to reducing plastic waste is a vital part of their identity, making them a brand worth supporting.

22. TALA

TALA is a brand that focuses on sustainable activewear. They create clothing that not only looks good but also feels great while you exercise. Their designs are made to fit well and are affordable, making them a popular choice for many.

Commitment to Sustainability

• TALA operates from an office powered entirely by renewable energy.
• The team encourages staff to use public transport, reducing their carbon footprint.
• They challenge their overseas partners to maintain ethical practises throughout the supply chain.

Why Choose TALA?

1. Stylish Designs: TALA’s activewear is designed to make you look and feel good.
2. Affordable Prices: They offer quality clothing without breaking the bank.
3. Environmental Awareness: The brand is dedicated to raising awareness about the exploitation of people and the planet.

TALA believes that fashion should not come at the cost of our planet. Their mission is to create a positive impact through every piece of clothing they produce.

In summary, TALA stands out for its commitment to both style and sustainability, making it a great choice for those who want to look good while being environmentally conscious.

23. Vuori

Vuori is a rising star in the world of sustainable activewear. Originating from California, this brand has made a significant impact in the UK market, appearing in top stores like Selfridges and Harrods. With a focus on ethical practises, Vuori aims to reduce plastic use by 80% across its supply chain.

Key Features of Vuori:

• Ethical Manufacturing: Vuori collaborates only with manufacturers that have clear environmental policies.
• Waste Reduction: The brand is committed to minimising waste and is partnered with CleanHub to offset its plastic impact completely.
• Sustainable Materials: Vuori uses eco-friendly materials in its products, ensuring a lower environmental footprint.

Vuori understands that many consumers want to support brands that prioritise sustainability and ethics. This commitment is reflected in their practises and product offerings.

Product Range:

24. MPG Sport

MPG Sport is a BIPOC-owned activewear brand that has been around for nearly 20 years. They focus on creating stylish and durable products while also being committed to social and environmental responsibility. Their items are well-priced, making them accessible for many.

Key Features of MPG Sport:

• B Corp Certification: This means they meet high standards for social and environmental performance.
• Sustainable Materials: Many products are made from recycled materials, helping to reduce waste.
• Community Engagement: MPG Sport partners with various organisations to promote sustainability.

Popular Products:

MPG Sport is dedicated to transparency in their practises, ensuring customers know where their products come from and how they are made. Their commitment to sustainability makes them a leader in the activewear industry.

25. Prana and more

Prana is a pioneer in sustainable fashion, founded in 1992 in California. Known for its activewear, the brand has made significant strides in ethical production. Here are some key highlights about Prana:

• Fair Trade Certified: Prana was one of the first brands to partner with Fair Trade USA, benefiting over 26,000 workers globally.
• Sustainable Materials: The brand uses recycled and organic materials in its products, aiming for all items to be made from preferred fibres by 2025.
• Plastic-Free Packaging: Since 2021, Prana has eliminated plastic from all its product packaging.

Popular Products

Prana’s commitment to sustainability and ethical practises makes it a top choice for activewear enthusiasts.

In addition to Prana, there are other brands worth mentioning that focus on sustainability:

• Everlane: Known for its transparent pricing and ethical production.
• Outerknown: Founded by surfer Kelly Slater, this brand prioritises ocean-friendly materials.
• Tentree: For every item sold, Tentree plants ten trees, contributing to reforestation efforts.

These brands, including Prana, are leading the way in making activewear more sustainable and ethical, ensuring that you can look good while doing good for the planet.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing sustainable activewear is not just about looking good while exercising; it’s about making a positive impact on our planet. As we’ve seen, many brands are stepping up to create clothing that is both eco-friendly and stylish. By supporting these companies, we can help reduce waste and promote better practises in the fashion industry. Remember, every small choice counts. So, the next time you shop for workout clothes, consider opting for brands that prioritise sustainability. Together, we can make a difference, one workout at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a brand sustainable?

A sustainable brand focuses on using eco-friendly materials, ethical manufacturing practises, and reducing waste throughout its production process.

Are sustainable activewear brands more expensive?

While some sustainable brands may cost a bit more, they often offer better quality and durability, making them a worthwhile investment.

How can I tell if activewear is truly sustainable?

Look for certifications, transparent supply chains, and information about the materials used. Brands that share their sustainability practises are often more trustworthy.

Can I recycle my old activewear?

Yes, many brands have recycling programmes where you can send back old activewear to be repurposed or recycled.

Why is sustainable activewear important?

Sustainable activewear helps reduce environmental impact by minimising waste and pollution, while promoting ethical practises in the fashion industry.

What materials are commonly used in sustainable activewear?

Sustainable activewear often uses recycled polyester, organic cotton, and other eco-friendly materials that are less harmful to the environment.

How can I support sustainable brands?

You can support sustainable brands by choosing to purchase from them, spreading awareness about their practises, and encouraging others to make eco-friendly choices.

Are there size options available in sustainable activewear?

Yes, many sustainable brands are committed to inclusivity and offer a wide range of sizes to cater to different body types.