One of the #1 questions we get in searching for sustainable clothing is what kind of workout and gymwear is responsibly made. It’s a tough one because the spandex STRETCH feel that workout gear requires is often made with different types of rayon and polyester—petroleum-based products. 🙁
While charity shops can still be great options for general outerwear (jackets, hats, etc), it IS difficult to find a workout top with juuust the right fit. No one likes doing yoga with a loose sports bra or leggings falling off their bum. Thankfully, there is an abundance of organisations that have taken it upon themselves to find a solution. Click here to read on.
We’ve highlighted some pretty stellar brands below but first, a few general rules for checking the ‘About’ section of athletic wear:
- Content – Elastane (Spandex), Rayon and Polyester should be kept to a minimum and made from recycled materials
- Materials – Organic cotton, hemp and linen mean that those items are devoid of pesticides
- Process – Responsible production practices include safe and fair working conditions for workers. It also means minimal water used throughout the process and controlled carbon emissions.
Chances are, if a company isn’t mentioning any of the above as something important to their mission, they probably aren’t doing it.