Performance and Sustainability: Can Sportswear Do Both?
Consumers have become quite discerning in their activewear choices. They seek pieces that are moisture-wicking, breathable, quick-drying and of course comfortable all at the same time. With awareness about sustainable options growing each day, there is an equally growing demand for sustainable activewear too. And this demand is expected to reach USD 134.67 billion by 2031!
The burning question then is whether high-performance activewear can be eco-friendly too. Is there a way to work on your body without harming the planet? Also, how do you check that a brand's eco-friendly claims are genuine?
With a growing number of brands that have switched to sustainable practices, it is easier than ever to find answers to these questions and make informed decisions. So, you can sweat it out at the gym happy in the knowledge that you are also doing your bit to save the planet.
What to look for in high-performance activewear?
When out in the market to shop for sportswear, everyone has their own specific requirements. There are certain styles and colours they may be on the lookout for. But some basic underlying requirements remain the same for everyone.
- Fitness enthusiasts want activewear that is moisture-wicking, something that can drive the sweat away from their bodies as they workout.
- They want something that is breathable and airy and does not choke out all the air from reaching their bodies.
- They also look for durability as nobody would want a tear at the seam when doing those stretches!
- They want a fabric that is stretchy and will allow them to move whichever way they want but also retain its shape after being pulled.
- Most importantly, they want something that feels comfortable and soft on their bodies.
- A relatively new addition to these preferences for sportswear is its sustainability.
What to look for in sustainable sportswear?
Shopping for sustainable sportswear may sound like a daunting task. But with a few pointers, it may turn out to be quite simple.
- First, look for activewear that is made from eco-friendly fabrics.
This includes innovative fabrics such as CELYSTM, recycled polyester, organic cotton, bamboo and lyocell.
CELYSTM compostable fibre, developed by INTIMITI AUSTRALIA PTY Ltd., is proving to be a game-changer in the sports and apparel industry. It can undergo 95.4% decomposition within 179 days under industrial composting conditions. This world’s very first fully compostable fibre is ideal for use in the apparel industry as it can help solve the environmental crisis engulfing the planet.
Recycled polyester is derived from post-consumer plastic bottles. It is highly suitable for high-performance activewear due to its moisture-wicking properties. It is also quite durable and light, making it ideal for use in sportswear.
Organic cotton is produced without the use of harmful fertilisers or chemicals. This way it does not harm the environment. At the same time, it absorbs moisture from the skin keeping the body dry. Most importantly, it is suitable for allergy-prone individuals.
Bamboo is a natural material that is renewable and can grow really fast. It does not require the use of fertilisers or pesticides making it an eco-friendly crop. It is soft and breathable and is well-suited for use in sportswear due to its moisture-wicking properties. The fibres are durable and help in providing longevity to clothes.
Lyocell is another eco-friendly material that is well-suited for use in sustainable sportswear. It is prepared from cellulose fibres that come from wood pulp using a closed-loop process. It is known for its softness and breathability and this has made it quite popular in the fashion industry. It is also a strong material making it suitable for use in durable activewear.
These materials are kinder to the environment and often just as comfortable and durable as their synthetic counterparts.
- Next, the production processes at the manufacturing facilities should be environmentally conscious. Waste generation should be minimal, and water and energy should be conserved by ensuring a closed-loop system. This way the business should be making a deliberate effort to reduce, reuse and recycle.
- Fair labour practices should be employed throughout the supply chain. It is important that the brand you opt for safeguards the rights of all workers. They should pay fair wages, and the work environment should be safe and healthy.
- Finally, transparency is key. The brand should be open about all its practices, from sourcing its materials to manufacturing processes. This openness will help you in making informed decisions.
Can sportswear be sustainable and high-performing?
Yes, it most assuredly can. Sportswear can indeed be sustainable and high-performing both at the same time.
Advancements in fabric technology and innovative manufacturing processes are proving to be the most important contributing factors towards this accomplishment. The development of eco-friendly innovative fabrics such as CELYSTM and recycled materials have provided brands with sustainable fabric choices.
At the same time, high-performance activewear brands are making sure their manufacturing practices are not just eco-friendly but also ethical so that their carbon and environmental footprint is lowered.
The best part is, that performance is in no way compromised in sustainable sportswear. Advanced techniques and innovative fabric blends make sure that the wearer’s performance is not affected.
Final Word
The demand for sustainable activewear is constantly growing. There is clearly a boost in the popularity of the brands that have been able to cater to these consumer demands. The days of having to choose between being eco-friendly and getting the best performance from your gear are behind us.
But there is room for so much more. We are nowhere near achieving sustainability in activewear yet. Many changes in operations and business structures need to be implemented. Profits may initially need to be sacrificed. Old habits need to be let go of and modern approaches need to be implemented. And customers need to play their part.
So next time you are shopping for activewear, look for those eco-friendly labels. This way you can feel good knowing that your workout clothes are as kind to the planet as they are to your body. Now, you can stay comfortable and look stylish too. You just need to be smart about your choices!
