6 Sustainable Sportswear Brands You Should Know About
Your fitness routine demands the perfect gear. Your clothing, footwear and accessories, all have a role to play in helping you perform and stay comfortable. Isn't it every fitness enthusiast’s dream to be able to work out in breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that keep them cool and dry?
However, the environmental footprint of fashionable fabrics has the eco-conscious customers worried. Polyester is amongst the most favoured materials used in sportswear and is a major contributor of microfibers in the environment. Many other synthetic materials such as nylon and acrylic are used due to their soft textures and breathability but all contribute significantly to environmental degradation.
Luckily, many sportswear brands have risen to the occasion and have come up with sustainable alternatives. They have chosen to create ethically produced sportswear that is not just kinder to the environment but performs equally well on the gym floor too.
These sustainable activewear brands have made it their mission to reduce their environmental footprint. So if you are a time-tested gym goer, an accomplished athlete, or someone who has just stepped into the fitness world, making the correct wardrobe choices is important. The correct gear will not only enhance your performance and comfort but will also support your commitment to sustainability.
To help you on this journey, we have compiled a list of sustainable sportswear brands you should know about.
Patagonia
Patagonia, a leader in sustainable activewear, is not just catering to the great outdoors but taking care of the environment too.
Yvon Chouinard, a rock climber and a self-taught blacksmith, set up the company in 1973 in Ventura, California, with a primary focus on environmental responsibility.
The company’s approach to sustainability is evident in the entire manufacturing process, from the use of recycled and completely organic cotton to employing fair labour practices and eco-friendly production methods. The company’s efforts towards saving the environment and its sense of social responsibility have made it a Certified B corporation.
One outstanding program that is a reflection of Patagonia's sustainability efforts is its “Worn Wear program”, which encourages customers to buy used products, repair their gear, and recycle items that are no longer functional.
Additionally, the company donates 1% of its sales to environmental causes through the "1% for the Planet" initiative, supporting organisations that are working to preserve and restore the natural world. “Patagonia Action Works” is a platform that allows its customers to get in touch with the environmental action groups the company supports.
Patagonia has set a high standard within the apparel industry with its complete dedication to environmental and social responsibility and is amongst the most sustainable activewear brands in the world.
Boody
Set up with the mission to promote a more sustainable lifestyle, Boody uses organically grown bamboo viscose to produce soft, breathable, and durable garments. The focus of the brand is on mindful consumption and for this purpose, it offers a range of basics and underwear that cater to everyday needs keeping the well-being of both the planet and its customers a priority.
Boody's production process is designed to have a minimal environmental impact. The company designs comfortable underwear for longevity so that overconsumption and ultimately waste generation can be reduced, helping ease the load on landfills.
The company also boasts a B-Corp Certification and is a member of the “1% for the planet” initiative
A strict code of conduct is enforced to ensure that this sustainable activewear’s partners use ethical manufacturing processes. It ensures that these facilities do not enforce any form of child or forced labour, employ fair labour practices with improved wage systems and benefits, and meet all health and safety standards.
FILA China
Founded in 1911 in Biella, Italy, FILA started off as a textile and knitwear manufacturer, keeping its focus on producing high-quality fabrics. The brand started manufacturing sportswear in the 1970s, earning international recognition for its innovative and stylish athletic apparel. By the year 2023, 87% of sportswear customers in the UK had become familiar with the FILA brand name.
FILA entered the Chinese market in the 1990s but initially was unable to get a strong foothold. The turning point came in 2009 when ANTA Sports, a leading Chinese sportswear company, acquired the rights to the FILA brand in China, Hong Kong, and Macau. This acquisition marked the beginning of FILA China's rapid growth.
This summer, FILA will be featuring CELYSTM products, further strengthening their commitment to sustainability and eco-consciousness. CELYSTM compostable fibre has the distinct advantage of fully degrading under industrial composting conditions within 179 days making it a priceless innovation in the apparel industry. The move to show CELYS underscores FILA's dedication to environmental responsibility and innovation in its product offerings.
ANTA
ANTA Sports is one of China’s leading sportswear companies. It has made a name for itself through rapid growth and different strategic acquisitions.
Founded in 1994, ANTA has built up an impressive range of activewear products, including footwear, apparel, and accessories.
In 2009, ANTA made a significant move. It went and acquired the rights to the FILA brand in China, Hong Kong, and Macau. This move proved to be a turning point for both ANTA and FILA China, allowing ANTA to expand its brand portfolio.
Under ANTA's management, FILA China also had the chance to make a mark in the local markets by blending Western sportswear styles with local cultural elements. This way the company was able to catch the attention of the local fashion-conscious consumers.
In addition to FILA, ANTA's portfolio includes several other well-known brands, such as Amer Sports, MAIA ACTIVE and KOLON SPORT.
ANTA's commitment to sustainability and innovation is evident in its move to feature CELYS products this summer.
By focusing on quality and strategic brand management, ANTA continues to grow strong in the competitive sportswear market, both in China and internationally.
TALA
TALA was set up in 2019, with the aim of providing sustainable activewear with the best quality, fit and style that did not create a dent in the customers’ pockets.
The company was founded by influencer Grace Beverley who, after working in fast fashion, switched to sustainable everyday clothing.
TALA offers stylish, functional, and eco-friendly clothing options. It uses upcycled, recycled, and organic materials to create its products, so that each piece is not only durable and comfortable but also kind to the environment.
This brand is also dedicated to ethical manufacturing practices, transparency, and reducing waste in the fashion industry.
With a strong focus on community and environmental impact, TALA has shown that it is possible to look good, feel good, and do good for the planet all at the same time.
Girlfriend Collective
Girlfriend Collective is another sustainable activewear brand dedicated to ethical manufacturing processes. The company transforms old water bottles and fishing nets into stylish, high-quality activewear reducing the burden on the earth’s fast-depleting resources.
Founded in 2016 by Quang and Ellie Dinh, the brand makes sure its production processes meet the strictest ethical standards. By using recycled materials such as post-consumer water bottles and fabric scraps, Girlfriend Collective reduces fashion’s environmental impact and promotes eco-conscious living. Their designs are always minimalistic, focusing on functionality and comfort, making sustainable fashion not only accessible but also appealing to customers.
The company takes great pride in its ethical manufacturing practices. Their primary sewing partner in Vietnam is SA8000 certified, guaranteeing fair wages, safe working conditions, and adherence to strict labour standards.
Girlfriend Collective’s textiles are certified Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex, which verifies the absence of harmful substances in their fabrics.
Their approach to sustainability also extends to their packaging, which is 100% recycled.
By focusing on eco-friendly practices and partnering with reputable facilities in Taiwan and Vietnam, Girlfriend Collective sets a high standard for sustainable fashion, proving that style, quality, and environmental responsibility can coexist harmoniously.
Final word
These companies and their business practices are proof that high-performing and aesthetically attractive products can be created in an eco-friendly way. There need not be any compromise on the health of our planet, the environment or the well-being of the workers involved.
By choosing sustainable sportswear, you as consumers can support a more responsible fashion industry and contribute to a healthier environment. These brands have made it possible for us to enjoy stylish, functional, and durable athletic wear while making a positive impact.
