How To Find Eco-friendly Workout Clothes

By Rachel Melegrito – June 1, 2023

The fashion industry is notorious for its environmental impact; athletic wear is no exception. As athleisure becomes more popular, the number of people seeking eco-friendly workout clothes also increases.

Sustainable athleisure ensures organizations create safe and environment-friendly clothing based on ethical practices. However, you might find it challenging when looking for eco-friendly workout clothes. You must know how to identify eco-friendly materials or sustainable brands.

Let’s discuss the steps you can take when hunting for eco-friendly workout clothes.

6 Ways To Look for Eco-friendly Workout Clothes

The fashion industry has a significantly negative impact on the environment. Manufacturers use hazardous chemicals and unsustainable production practices to produce designer or common clothes. The sector’s excessive waste generation and uncontrolled water usage also highlight environmental concerns.

Data shows that fabric dyeing and finishing account for 3% of global carbon dioxide emissions and 20% of global water pollution. These two processes alone greatly contribute to resource depletion due to energy-intensive, fossil fuel-based methods.

To help reduce such environmental footprints and support the restoration of a healthier planet, implement the ways detailed below.

Seek Clothing With Eco-friendly Materials

The first and most important step in sustainable athleisure is finding workout clothing with made from eco-friendly materials such as the ones listed below:

  • Recycled polyester
  • Organic cotton
  • Bamboo
  • Tencel

Look for and purchase workout clothes with labels indicating that they are made of these materials.

Research Sustainable Brands

Many athletic apparel brands have pledged to prioritize sustainability in their production process. Seek brands that use eco-friendly materials and execute transparent sustainability practices.

You can visit CDP’s A List webpage to know which companies have vowed to help achieve public climate targets.

Check for Certifications

Hunt for clothing labels certified by leading environmental advocates such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Bluesign, and the Fair Trade Certified mark. Such certifications serve as proof that workout clothing manufacturers produce their items with sustainable and ethical practices.

Buy Secondhand Clothes

Don’t hesitate to buy secondhand workout clothes from thrift stores, online marketplaces, or consignment shops. In addition to helping reduce waste, you can also save money for your daily necessities.

Just pick the right store to purchase pre-owned workout clothes. Make sure it sells clean and neatly stored items. This way, you can avoid other health issues such as skin rash.

Rent Workout Clothes

Another practical sustainable athleisure tip is to rent workout clothes. Some businesses offer rental services that let you borrow workout clothes for an affordable cost.

You can take this option if you just need the clothing for a short period such as a one-time zumba class or week-long fitness journey. But you don’t have sufficient budget to buy a new one.

These rental services also allow you to test a brand first before committing to purchasing. Hence, you can save yourself from regrets if you don’t feel comfortable wearing their products.

Take Good Care of Your Clothes

Of course, a simple act means a lot to environmental wellness and restoration. So take good care of your workout clothes properly, whether they are eco-friendly types or regular ones. Doing so helps minimize the need for frequent replacements.

Some brands have brief and concise instructions on how to handle the items with care. Follow them, especially when washing the workout clothes to avoid making them look worn out. Also, consider repairing clothes rather than throwing them away immediately.

Final Notes

Reducing negative environmental impacts and supporting sustainable production practices have pushed many non and gym enthusiasts to find eco-friendly workout clothes.

From selecting eco-friendly materials to taking care of your workout clothes, sustainable athleisure ensures such practices benefit both the environment and yourself. Note that knowing the different ways to look for eco-friendly workout clothes helps secure a greener future.

 
 

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