Sustainable activewear clothing and fashion have become a prominent fixture in the overall clothing market in the last 5-10 years. Numerous organizations now monitor and ensure companies genuinely commit to sustainability, rather than just using the term for marketing. And it’s so crucial to have these organizations differentiate from the unethical practices of Nike, Lululemon and others.
From the UN Alliance for Sustainable Fashion, who are setting the standards in labor and working conditions. To The Global Organic Textile Standard who verify suppliers, manufacturers, and sellers to make sure everything from the raw materials to the production process is up to par with global sustainability standards.
Now, before we get to the list, we want to break down what the term sustainability actually means in the activewear and fashion industries. The consensus among organizations is that sustainability is built on 5 pillars:
Listen, I’ve been on this wild goose chase lately. The mission? Find activewear that doesn’t make me feel like a total hypocrite. You know what I mean, right? There I am, sipping my fair-trade coffee, feeling all good about saving the world, then I look down at my leggings and… ugh. Made in a sweatshop, probably.
So I went down this rabbit hole, determined to find brands that actually give a damn. And let me tell you, it’s been a journey. Like that time I tried hot yoga—surprising, sweaty, but oh-so-worth it.
Labor Practices
First up, it’s all about treating workers right. Fair wages, safe conditions, and no child labor. Workers should also have the freedom to organize and speak up for their rights. Basically, making sure everyone in the supply chain is happy and healthy.
Fabric Choices
Next, the fabric. Sustainable activewear uses materials that are easy on the planet.
Organic Cotton: This cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, which reduces environmental harm. In order to have the The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) seal of approval, all textiles must contain a minimum of 70% certified organic fibers.
Recycled Polyester: Made from recycled plastic bottles or other polyester garments, this fabric helps reduce waste and the need for new raw materials.
Bamboo: Known for its rapid growth and minimal need for water and pesticides compared to traditional cotton.
Hemp: Like bamboo fibers, hemp requires less water and pesticides, and enriches the soil it grows in.
Manufacturing Processes
How the clothes are made is just as important. Sustainable brands are all about cutting down on waste, using less water and energy, and keeping their carbon footprint in check. They might use water-efficient processes, use renewable energy, and aim for zero waste in their production lines. This is where fabrics like bamboo fibre come in!
Environmental Impact
Finally, the big picture—how everything affects the planet. This means looking at the carbon footprint, limiting harmful chemicals in dyes and finishes, and designing clothes that break down naturally at the end of their life.
Now that you know what it means, here is the list of the best sustainable activewear companies in 2024.
Everlane
First up, Everlane. Sustainable activewear is just part of their larger-scale clothing operation. They have a beautiful selection of everything from shirts, hoodies to pants and shoes. And in terms of sustainability, they really strive to make a difference. They do their best to have an ethical approach and provide full transparency into their supplier relations and manufacturing.
Veja
When it comes to gym shoes, I used to be all about the big names. You know, the ones with the swooshes and stripes. Then I found Veja. These French folks make sneakers with wild rubber from the Amazon. So, when I’m on the treadmill, sweating like I’m in the rainforest, in a way… I kind of am? They even use recycled plastic. My shoes are basically reincarnated water bottles. How’s that for motivation?
Armedangels
Speaking of motivation, let’s chat about Armedangels. German engineering isn’t just for cars, my friends. These guys have somehow made ethically-produced gym wear that’s both basic and badass. I’ve got this tank top that’s perfect for weight training, and a hoodie that’s seen me through more Netflix marathons than I care to admit.
Nudie Jeans
Here’s a curveball for you: Nudie Jeans. Okay, not strictly gym wear, but they offer free repairs for life. FOR LIFE. In a world where everything’s disposable, including some relationships I’ve had, this is huge. These are my go-to “I did legs yesterday and can’t feel my quads” jeans.
Pact
Here’s Pact. These American folks are on a mission to be “Earth’s favorite clothing company.” Bold, right? But their organic cotton basics are so affordable, it might actually work. They have a wide line of products for both men and women. So why not make a purchase that you can feel kinda good about?!
Vyayama
Meet Vyayama, the pint-sized powerhouse currently enlightening wardrobes via Poshmark. Using wood-based Tencel (yes, you’re wearing a tree), their leggings aren’t just soft; they’re a forest’s lullaby, ethically made in India. During a killer Vinyasa, Vyayama isn’t just dressing you; they’re aligning your chakras, one recycled thread at a time.
Outdoor Voices
One of the top sustainable activewear clothing brands is OV. With their “Doing Things” mantra, they’ve turned recycled bottles into TechSweat leggings that cheer for every move, from marathons to wine-glass lifts. Outdoor Voices isn’t selling activewear; they’re offering membership to a chill, earth-loving club.
Kowtow
Then there’s Kowtow from New Zealand. If Marie Kondo designed activewear, this would be it. Everything’s minimalist, everything’s 100% fair-trade cotton. I got a pair of their leggings, and it’s like they whisper “namaste” every time I do a downward dog. Plus, knowing the farmers weren’t exploited? That’s better than nailing a headstand.