Green is the new black with these eco-friendly activewear must-haves
Let's be clear, sustainability is chic - and any chance we can get to support eco-friendly fitness brands that are shaking up the often less-than-green activewear industry is one we are quick to pounce on.
And thankfully with the development of new materials made from innovative fibres like bamboo or repurposed plastic in abundance, it has truly never been easier.
Whether it's squat-proof leggings you're in the market for, tread-ready trainers or the cutest tennis kit to take to the court, there are sustainable brands out there to fit every need.
Now, the first rule of sustainability is to buy what is necessary. Instead of overhauling your entire wardrobe, we suggest swapping out your worn-out and weary favourites with these durable, planet-friendly labels.
Not sure where to start? Below are our editor-approved favourite brands and top picks to add to cart from all of them. It's time to get sweaty, sustainably.
The best sustainable activewear to buy in 2024
T/ALA
The activewear brand on everyone's lips, TALA, has firmly cemented its place as a favourite among the sartorial set. With its array of buttery soft leggings, crops, shorts, and sweats, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to building out your wardrobe.
In the sustainability department, eco-friendly design is at the heart of the brand. They use everything from data on their audience to create desire-driven collections that reduce waste, to recycled and naturally sourced materials throughout their pieces.
Our pick:
Boody
If it's silky soft fabrics and major comfort you want from your workout clothes, then look no further than Boody.
The B-Corp label uses unique and innovative bamboo blends throughout its collections that are not only soft and silky on the skin but far less damaging on the planet. Bamboo uses less water consumption, is naturally organic, fast-growing and actually produces over 30% more oxygen to absorb up all those greenhouse gases.
The collections consist of classic basics from underwear and loungewear all the way to durable activewear that you can keep up with your workouts.
Our pick:
PANGAIA
PANGAIA has effortlessly nailed the brief when it comes to timeless, quality, eco-friendly pieces across the board. Since its launch in 2018, its extensive array of activewear and sweatsuits in a rainbow of hues has quickly garnered fans around the globe. Their recent foray into tailoring combines their expertise in eco-friendly production, supreme style, and movement-inspired design.
A certified B-Corp brand, PANGAIA's commitment to sustainability is undeniable. Backed by science, PANGAIA creates cutting-edge fabrics from naturally and ethically sourced materials like pineapple leaf, aloe vera, and flower-based alternatives to duck and goose down.
Our pick:
HOKA
If it's sustainable trainers you're in the market for, HOKA has taken the fitness world by storm with its selection of styles to suit all occasions, fitness levels and activities. From their bestselling Bondi 8 to the trail-ready Kaha 2 hiking boots, you're guaranteed to find a new favourite pair.
The brand also recognises its responsibility when it comes to both people and planet. You'll find 97% of shoes use recycled, renewed or naturally-derived materials, as well as brand commitments to cut water usage by 20% by 2030 and an increase in the recycling post-consumer waste.
Our pick:
adidas x Stella McCartney
A champion of sustainable fashion, Stella McCartney's ongoing collaboration with street and activewear giant Adidas has produced some of the most fashion-forward gym pieces on the market. Whether it's electric pink trainers, metallic crops or functional basics, she's brought her passion for eco-friendly design to the collab with the use of luxurious organic fabrics and repurposed post-consumer waste.
The brand is not a stranger to innovative materials, they often work with Parley for the Ocean to reimagine ocean waste into a yarn used throughout their shoes.
Our pick:
Silou
If you're looking to splash out, luxury London-born label Silou combines simple, elegant premium activewear with sustainable materials throughout their collections. You won't find bright prints or out-there silhouettes across their lines, instead, they offer sleek and effortless pieces that will last for years to come.
They work on a small batch production model to reduce waste from unsold items, as well as working with skilled European craftsmen using innovative fabrics to ensure optimal quality so you don't have to buy new pieces as often.
Our pick:
Gngr Bees
Sustainability and eco-friendly production is at the very heart of this label. Gngr Bees uses recycled and reclaimed materials to create quality gym wear. The London-based brand takes every part of the production process into account from the raw materials used throughout collections to delivery, transport and logistics to ensure everything is made to a high quality and without sacrificing sustainability.
Our pick:
Instant Swim
If you're taking to the pool this summer for your daily workouts, one: we don't blame you, and two: Instant Swim should be on your must-shop list. The brand transforms regenerated nylon from ocean waste into functional swimsuits that look great. They may be chic, but rest assured, they can hold their own in the pool or the waves as you swim your laps.
Its selection of one-pieces and bikinis is perfect for both training and leisure, offering genuine support and comfort. One of our favourite details is that they've even considered taller women, so you can find specifically designed suits that won't leave you tugging and pulling at your suit - hallelujah!
Our pick:
The Underdays
Have you ever been in the gym and found that your undergarments just aren't holding up their end of the deal in terms of comfort and support? You're not alone! Not all underwear is created equal, which is wear The Underdays comes in to save the day.
Made using premium OEKO-TEX certified, responsibly sourced fabrics, The Underdays has created luxurious underwear that stand the test of time. Their Workout line is specifically designed with exercise in mind and the results speak for themselves.
Our pick:
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Let's be clear, sustainability is chic - and any chance we can get to support eco-friendly fitness brands that are shaking up the often less-than-green activewear industry is one we are quick to pounce on.
And thankfully with the development of new materials made from innovative fibres like bamboo or repurposed plastic in abundance, it has truly never been easier.
Whether it's squat-proof leggings you're in the market for, tread-ready trainers or the cutest tennis kit to take to the court, there are sustainable brands out there to fit every need.
Now to be clear the first rule of sustainability is to buy what is necessary. Instead of overhauling your entire wardrobe, we suggest swapping out your worn-out and weary favourites with these durable, guilt-free labels.
Not sure where to start? Below are our editor-approved favourite brands and top picks to add to cart from all of them. It's time to get sweaty, sustainably.
The best sustainable activewear to add to your eco-friendly workout wardrobe in 2024
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