Let's be clear, sustainability is chic - and any chance we can get to support eco-friendly fitness brands that are shaking up the often less-than-green activewear industry is one we are quick to pounce on.
And thankfully with the development of new materials made from innovative fibres like bamboo or repurposed plastic in abundance, it has truly never been easier.
Whether it's squat-proof leggings you're in the market for, tread-ready trainers or the cutest tennis kit to take to the court, there are sustainable brands out there to fit every need.
Now, the first rule of sustainability is to buy what is necessary. Instead of overhauling your entire wardrobe, we suggest swapping out your worn-out and weary favourites with these durable, planet-friendly labels.
Not sure where to start? Below are our editor-approved favourite brands and top picks to add to cart from all of them. It's time to get sweaty, sustainably.
The best sustainable activewear to buy in 2024
T/ALA
The activewear brand on everyone's lips, TALA, has firmly cemented its place as a favourite among the sartorial set. With its array of buttery soft leggings, crops, shorts, and sweats, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to building out your wardrobe.
In the sustainability department, eco-friendly design is at the heart of the brand. They use everything from data on their audience to create desire-driven collections that reduce waste, to recycled and naturally sourced materials throughout their pieces.
Our pick:
Ultra-flattering and endlessly versatile, this piece is perfect for those transitional days when the UK weather is less than consistent. Made from breathable DayFlex fabric (using pre-consumer waste), pair it with your favourite leggings or shorts to stay warm without feeling bulky.
Boody
If it's silky soft fabrics and major comfort you want from your workout clothes, then look no further than Boody.
The B-Corp label uses unique and innovative bamboo blends throughout its collections that are not only soft and silky on the skin but far less damaging on the planet. Bamboo uses less water consumption, is naturally organic, fast-growing and actually produces over 30% more oxygen to absorb up all those greenhouse gases.
The collections consist of classic basics from underwear and loungewear all the way to durable activewear that you can keep up with your workouts.
Our pick:
A classic pair of black leggings made from a silky-soft bamboo viscose? Sign us up. Not only do these hold their own while you hit the gym, you'll find yourself reaching for them as you lounge about the house too.
PANGAIA
PANGAIA has effortlessly nailed the brief when it comes to timeless, quality, eco-friendly pieces across the board. Since its launch in 2018, its extensive array of activewear and sweatsuits in a rainbow of hues has quickly garnered fans around the globe. Their recent foray into tailoring combines their expertise in eco-friendly production, supreme style, and movement-inspired design.
A certified B-Corp brand, PANGAIA's commitment to sustainability is undeniable. Backed by science, PANGAIA creates cutting-edge fabrics from naturally and ethically sourced materials like pineapple leaf, aloe vera, and flower-based alternatives to duck and goose down.
Our pick:
A quality hoodie is an essential in any activewear collection. Whether you're wearing pre-workout or rugging up on particularly chilly days, the breathable cotton material ensures you're at peak comfort. A flattering and unisex silhouette, it's the perfect top layer.
HOKA
If it's sustainable trainers you're in the market for, HOKA has taken the fitness world by storm with its selection of styles to suit all occasions, fitness levels and activities. From their bestselling Bondi 8 to the trail-ready Kaha 2 hiking boots, you're guaranteed to find a new favourite pair.
The brand also recognises its responsibility when it comes to both people and planet. You'll find 97% of shoes use recycled, renewed or naturally-derived materials, as well as brand commitments to cut water usage by 20% by 2030 and an increase in the recycling post-consumer waste.
Our pick:
They've received cult status for a reason, the Bondi 8 trainers are ideal for road runners and walkers thanks to their immense cushioning and support. Like walking on clouds, they're lightweight, durable and of course made with recycled content and Ortholite® Hybrid sockliner.
adidas x Stella McCartney
A champion of sustainable fashion, Stella McCartney's ongoing collaboration with street and activewear giant Adidas has produced some of the most fashion-forward gym pieces on the market. Whether it's electric pink trainers, metallic crops or functional basics, she's brought her passion for eco-friendly design to the collab with the use of luxurious organic fabrics and repurposed post-consumer waste.
The brand is not a stranger to innovative materials, they often work with Parley for the Ocean to reimagine ocean waste into a yarn used throughout their shoes.
Our pick:
Balletcore eat your heart out. This shimmering metallic pink leotard will bring some 80s aerobics energy to your next workout class. With its various cutouts and detachable sleeves, it ensures you don't overheat. It's a sure way to add some personality to the sometimes monotonous activewear landscape.
Silou
If you're looking to splash out, luxury London-born label Silou combines simple, elegant premium activewear with sustainable materials throughout their collections. You won't find bright prints or out-there silhouettes across their lines, instead, they offer sleek and effortless pieces that will last for years to come.
They work on a small batch production model to reduce waste from unsold items, as well as working with skilled European craftsmen using innovative fabrics to ensure optimal quality so you don't have to buy new pieces as often.
Our pick:
Buttery soft, these shorts are a warm weather essential. The flattering silhouette (hello no middle seams!) and chic hazy lavender tone are perfectly seasonal. And they've even been designed to promote muscle recovery and keep sweat away during tough workouts.
Gngr Bees
Sustainability and eco-friendly production is at the very heart of this label. Gngr Bees uses recycled and reclaimed materials to create quality gym wear. The London-based brand takes every part of the production process into account from the raw materials used throughout collections to delivery, transport and logistics to ensure everything is made to a high quality and without sacrificing sustainability.
Our pick:
Ideal for low to medium-impact workouts such as dance classes, Pilates, and yoga, this chic sports bra is crafted from recycled nylon and spandex for comfort and support. It's made from upcycled fishing nets, and if you ask us they've snagged themselves a winner.
Instant Swim
If you're taking to the pool this summer for your daily workouts, one: we don't blame you, and two: Instant Swim should be on your must-shop list. The brand transforms regenerated nylon from ocean waste into functional swimsuits that look great. They may be chic, but rest assured, they can hold their own in the pool or the waves as you swim your laps.
Its selection of one-pieces and bikinis is perfect for both training and leisure, offering genuine support and comfort. One of our favourite details is that they've even considered taller women, so you can find specifically designed suits that won't leave you tugging and pulling at your suit - hallelujah!
Our pick:
In a perfectly summery bold Azure hue, we love this one-piece that both looks and feels great as you swim. It's chlorine-resistant, super soft, UV protective, and offers medium-level coverage – what more could you ask for from your swimwear?
The Underdays
Have you ever been in the gym and found that your undergarments just aren't holding up their end of the deal in terms of comfort and support? You're not alone! Not all underwear is created equal, which is wear The Underdays comes in to save the day.
Made using premium OEKO-TEX certified, responsibly sourced fabrics, The Underdays has created luxurious underwear that stand the test of time. Their Workout line is specifically designed with exercise in mind and the results speak for themselves.
Our pick:
Have no fear as you hit the gym with this squat-proof, sweat-wicking, durable and most importantly comfortable thong that is ideal for your next workout.
More sustainable content...
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- 6 things in your bathroom that aren't sustainable + the best swaps
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Isabelle Knevett is the Fashion Features Editor at Women’s Health. With her keen insight into the worlds of both fashion and fitness, she explores their intersection to help women feel their best when they work out and do it in style. Transitioning from a career as a full-time dancer into the realms of fashion and media, she understands the importance of reliable activewear. Her work has been published across Marie Claire Australia, ELLE Australia, Australian Women’s Weekly, and more. When she's not writing, you'll find her in a dance class, or with her nose in a fashion mag.
