On the CommonShare content space, we dove deep into the sustainability issues of the clothing industry. But there is something to be said, specifically, about activewear. Because activewear brands are uniquely focused upon the flexibility and comfort of their design, they employ specific fabric that fits the bill. One material that brands often turn to is Lycra. Lycra is a polyurethane-based synthetic fiber (otherwise known as spandex). It’s known for its strength, durability, and above all, stretchiness. This magical cocktail of properties makes Lycra perfect for those downward dogs and strenuous spin classes. But even though Lycra seems like the perfect answer to the question of long-lasting activewear, the fabric lasts a long time in landfills as well. A really, really long time. Lycra can take anywhere from 20 to 200 years to decompose naturally, presenting a unique problem to activewear brands and activewear consumers. Is there something else to be worn during workouts that doesn’t wear down the planet?
These five brands say YES TALA TALA’s mission is to create “athleisure wear” for people that care. For them, that means that their clothing is both cute and inclusive, offering styles and sizes that are comfortable for any body. TALA wants to eventually create products that are 100% up-cycled, with recycled and recyclable tags and packaging. So far, they’re up to 92%. TALA’s signature leggings are the Zinnia leggings, made from 92% up-cycled Polyamide. Polyamide is breathable and stretchy, and when it’s upcycled, it’s admirably sustainable. Buyers love the Zinnia leggings because they are high-rise in the waist, but go all the way down to the ankles. This fit makes TALA’s leggings perfect for a variety of activities.
Patagonia No conversation about sustainable activewear is complete without mentioning Patagonia. The outdoorsy clothing giant focuses on sustainable and eco-friendly practices, and their leggings stay loyal to their mission. Patagonia puts a lot of thought into the fabric they use, and with their Centered Tights, this intentionality means the use of recycled polyester that is Fair Trade Certified sewn. As always, Patagonia stands by their products and encourages buyers to send them in for repairs whenever necessary. One thing for consumers to keep in mind: Patagonia’s products are heavy-duty, and meant for outdoor use! This means they can be pretty warm… perfect for the colder months, but maybe not the best for a hot yoga session! Pure by Luce Pure by Luce offers sustainability with style. Their Noor Sky Leggings offer comfort with a bright blue color that really sticks out among the rest! Pure by Luce boast that their leggings maintain their shape, and have a super-soft feel. They also advertise excellent coverage, and no see-through risk! The company uses Econyl, a 100% regenerated polyamide fiber from post-consumer materials, making their leggings ultra-sustainable. Buyers report that the color and design of Pure by Luce leggings make them particularly desirable. Most Pure by Luce fans use these leggings for lower-impact sports like yoga or simply leisure activities.
Four Athletics Four Athletics is looking for a better way to provide stylish, quality clothing. In fact, they claim that their athletic wear is “over-engineered.” This activewear brand set out to obsessively design pieces that could withstand the hardest-hitting workouts, all while keeping athletes looking good. On top of that, they wanted all their products to be made where they were designed and sold: in the USA. Four Athletics’ PaleOMG Omni Cloud Contour leggings are a partnership between the brand and PALEOMG. Made from their Cloud fabric (which, they say, is their softest yet), these leggings are crowdfunded, and offered at 50% lower than average retail prices. The manufacturing process is designed to eliminate waste, while lower the energy costs of production overseas. And since they’re sewing locally, the company can keep tabs on the working conditions in their factories, making sure workers are treated well. Though their materials are not recycled, they are ethically sourced, and intent on overseeing every step of the production process. Greater Than Sports Greater Than Sports is known for their edgy styles, as well as their sustainable practices. The brand started as a one-man show. Mike Borisenok was the original GTS founder and tailor, and he remains the central sewer to this day. The design lab and manufacturing headquarters in Upstate New York has adopted a unique production method that seriously cuts down on waste. The company designs and produces everything under one roof, and offer clothing made to order… making sure that every item produced is bought instead of sitting in a warehouse. They are famous for sharing with buyers a video of their purchased products, while they are being made! These five companies are committed to sustainability in a world of wasteful activewear. Read more about sustainable sporting goods in these articles on our content space. 4 Sustainable Activewear Brands The Latest in Luxury Sportswear Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Sportswear
Cover Image: Photo by Andrew Tanglao