In the modern era, the move towards a more sustainable future has been a prominent theme across all industries. But none more so than in the world of fashion. Today, numerous brands are making significant strides to become more ethical and reduce their environmental footprint. This is particularly evident in the activewear industry, where brands are seeking to create gym and sportswear that is not just stylish and comfortable, but also good for the planet. The UK is at the forefront of this movement, with several British brands leading the way in sustainable activewear. In this article, you’ll discover the best of them, from brands that create leggings and shorts made from recycled plastic to those using certified organic cotton in their range.
TALA
TALA, a fast-rising star in the world of sustainable activewear, is committed to creating a more sustainable future. At the heart of the TALA brand is the desire to create pieces that are not just stylish but also good for the planet. The company is proud to produce a large percentage of its clothing from upcycled or recycled materials, contributing significantly to the reduction of waste in the fashion industry.
Many of their popular activewear, such as sports bras, leggings, and shorts, are made from up to 92% recycled plastic, while their labels and packaging are created using recycled or recyclable materials.
Girlfriend Collective
Primarily known for their leggings, the Girlfriend Collective is a trailblazing brand that has made sustainability a key part of its brand identity. The brand takes a strong ethical stance by using materials that are good for the planet and people. They utilize recycled polyester from plastic bottles to make their leggings and shorts, recycling up to 6 water bottles per pair of leggings.
In addition to recycling, the Girlfriend Collective also promotes inclusivity and transparency in its operations. The brand operates a certified factory in Vietnam where employees are provided with fair wages, free meals, and healthcare.
Thought Clothing
Thought Clothing is a British brand that has firmly established itself in the sustainable fashion landscape. The brand prides itself on using organic, recycled, and thoughtfully sourced materials in the production of its activewear range.
Thought Clothing’s activewear collection features a variety of clothing, including shorts, leggings, and tops made from organic cotton, bamboo, and other sustainable materials. Above all, the brand is committed to transparency, providing detailed information about the origin of their materials and the ethical production processes they use.
BAM Bamboo Clothing
BAM Bamboo Clothing, another leader in the British sustainable activewear industry, uses bamboo as the primary material in their clothing. Bamboo is a highly sustainable and renewable resource, growing quickly without the need for harmful pesticides.
The brand’s activewear range, which includes gym clothes and yoga wear, features pieces that are breathable, temperature regulating, and incredibly soft. With every purchase, customers are not only investing in high-quality activewear but also contributing to a more sustainable future.
Finisterre
Finisterre, a British brand based in Cornwall, has a deep-seated commitment to sustainability. The brand was born out of a love for the sea and a desire to create innovative products without causing unnecessary harm to the environment.
Their activewear range, made from organic cotton, recycled polyester, and ECONYL® (a regenerated nylon made from old fishnets and other nylon waste), is durable, functional, and good for the planet.
In conclusion, when it comes to sustainable activewear, the British market offers a wealth of options. Whether you’re into yoga, running, or gym workouts, there’s a brand that aligns with your ethical and environmental values. From recycled plastic to organic cotton and bamboo, these brands have shown that it’s wholly possible to look good, feel good, and do good when you shop for your next workout outfit.
Iron Roots
Founded in the Netherlands, Iron Roots is a significant player in the sustainable activewear industry. Their main objective is to design fitness apparel that not only enhances performance but also respects the environment. Unlike synthetic materials often used in sportswear, the brand uses natural materials such as organic cotton, eucalyptus, and hemp, which are much kinder to the skin and the environment.
This commitment to using natural materials is directly tied to the brand’s desire to eliminate the usage of plastic in their supply chain, making them a truly plastic-free activewear brand. Beyond the environmental benefits, Iron Roots’ clothing is also known for its antibacterial properties, reducing odours during and after workouts.
The brand’s continuous efforts towards transparency are evident in their advertising campaigns, Instagram posts, and interactions with customers. From sharing about their production processes to the benefits of their chosen materials, they are dedicated to educating consumers about the importance of sustainable fashion.
Dharma Bums
An ethical activewear brand based in Australia but popular in the UK, Dharma Bums offers a wide range of eco-friendly and fair-trade certified activewear. The brand’s mission is to ensure that every person involved in their supply chain is treated fairly and with respect.
Dharma Bums uses materials such as recycled polyester and certified organic cotton to produce their stylish and high-performance activewear. Their sports bras, leggings, and shorts are not only comfortable but also are good for both the wearer and the environment.
In a clear display of their commitment to sustainable practices, the brand has achieved Oeko-Tex certification, ensuring that their products are free from harmful substances. Additionally, their ongoing efforts to reduce waste and promote recycling are evident in their packaging, which is entirely plastic-free.
Sustainable activewear is more than a trend; it’s a movement towards a more responsible and conscious way of consuming fashion. The brands highlighted in this article, including TALA, Girlfriend Collective, Thought Clothing, BAM Bamboo Clothing, Iron Roots, and Dharma Bums, are making significant contributions towards a more sustainable future in fashion. They are challenging the norms and demonstrating that activewear can be stylish, high-performance, and environmentally friendly.
When choosing your next piece of activewear, consider the environmental and social impacts of your purchase. By opting for these sustainable brands, you’re not just investing in high-quality, functional sportswear. You’re also contributing to a fairer and more sustainable fashion industry, promoting ethical labour practices, and reducing your environmental footprint. Remember, every purchase is a choice, and every choice can make a difference.
