Ethical Activewear Brands That Give Back

In today’s fitness world, people are not only looking for high-performance gear but also for brands that align with their values. As sustainability continues to take center stage, choosing ethical activewear brands that give back to communities and the planet has never been more important. If you’re looking to revamp your workout wardrobe, here’s how to make a positive impact with every purchase.

1. Look for Transparency in Sourcing and Manufacturing

Ethical Activewear brands are upfront about where and how their products are made. Transparency is key to ensuring that a brand’s claims are legitimate. Brands that are committed to sustainability share information about the materials they use, where they source them, and how they ensure fair labor practices.

Example:

Patagonia, based in the US, is known for its transparency and commitment to environmental and social responsibility. They disclose where their materials come from and how their workers are treated, making them a trusted name in the sustainable fashion space.

In Europe, Veja has been a leader in transparency, particularly in their use of organic cotton and wild rubber sourced directly from the Amazon rainforest. Their openness about supply chains and production processes ensures customers know exactly how their products are made.

2. Choose Brands That Use Sustainable Materials

The fabric used to make ethical activewear brands has a significant environmental impact. Sustainable activewear brands opt for materials like organic cotton, hemp, and recycled polyester, which require less water and energy to produce than traditional fabrics.

Example:

Girlfriend Collective, a US-based brand, is famous for its leggings and bras made from recycled materials, including plastic bottles and fishing nets. Their commitment to using 100% recycled fabrics minimizes waste and reduces the environmental footprint of their products.

Across the Atlantic, Pangaia, a UK-based company, uses bio-based materials such as hemp and sustainable dyeing techniques to create athleisure that’s both fashionable and environmentally responsible.

3. Prioritize Brands with Fair Labor Practices

Sustainable materials are important, but so is the treatment of workers who make the products. Look for brands that ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and ethical treatment of their employees.

Example:

Toms, the US footwear and activewear brand, is committed to fair labor practices and works with manufacturers that support workers’ rights. Additionally, they are known for their “One for One” initiative, where they donate a pair of shoes for every pair purchased—making their impact doubly powerful.

In Europe, Stella McCartney collaborates with Adidas to produce fitness gear with a commitment to fair labor standards. Their activewear lines are made with organic cotton and recycled materials, and they adhere to strict ethical guidelines in their production processes.

4. Look for Brands That Give Back to the Community

Choosing brands that give back is a powerful way to ensure your purchases are making a positive impact. Many ethical activewear brands support environmental or social causes by donating a portion of their profits or partnering with charitable organizations.

Example:

Tentree, a Canadian brand, plants ten trees for every item sold, making it easy for customers to directly contribute to reforestation efforts around the world. The company’s initiative has already led to millions of trees being planted in areas affected by deforestation.

Similarly, in Europe, Fusun Tuncer donates a portion of their profits to initiatives supporting girls’ education in developing countries, promoting social change alongside sustainability.

5. Choose Brands with a Commitment to Durability

Another sign of an ethical activewear brand is their commitment to producing long-lasting, durable products. Fast fashion encourages overconsumption, but ethical brands aim to create quality pieces that stand the test of time, reducing waste in the process.

Example:

Lululemon, though not exclusively eco-focused, has taken significant steps toward sustainability by using high-quality, long-lasting fabrics that encourage consumers to buy less frequently. Their “Worn Wear” program also allows customers to buy second-hand items, reducing the need for new production and extending the life of their products.

In Europe, Nudie Jeans, while focused on denim, follows the same ethos of durability and repair. They encourage customers to return their items for repair, reducing the need for replacements and promoting a circular economy.

Making the Right Choice for People and the Planet

Choosing ethical activewear brands that give back is a meaningful way to align your fitness routine with your values. By selecting brands that prioritize transparency, sustainable materials, fair labor practices, community support, and durability, you’re not only investing in your health but also in the health of the planet and its people.

From the eco-friendly leggings of Girlfriend Collective to the reforestation efforts of Tentree, these brands prove that fashion and fitness don’t have to come at the cost of the environment or human rights. So the next time you’re shopping for activewear, remember that your choice matters—not just for your workout, but for the world around you.