The burgeoning market for activewear, driven by a global emphasis on health and wellness, is increasingly intersecting with an urgent imperative for sustainability. As consumers become more attuned to the environmental and social impacts of their purchases, the demand for activewear that aligns with ethical values – benefiting people, the planet, and animals – has surged. While the ethical fashion movement has historically been predominantly geared towards women and femme-presenting individuals, a significant shift is underway, with a growing number of brands dedicating efforts to providing more responsible menswear options, particularly within the challenging realm of performance apparel. Our editors curate highly rated brands that are first assessed by our rigorous ratings system. Buying through our links may earn us a commission—supporting the work we do. Learn more.
The Intricate Challenges of Sustainable Activewear Production
Producing activewear sustainably presents unique complexities compared to everyday clothing. The very properties that make conventional sports gear effective – durability, elasticity, moisture-wicking, and resistance to water and wind – often rely heavily on synthetic fibres and chemical treatments. Materials like virgin polyester, nylon, and spandex, derived from fossil fuels, are prevalent due to their inherent performance characteristics. However, their widespread use contributes significantly to environmental degradation. The production of these materials is energy-intensive, releasing substantial greenhouse gas emissions. For instance, polyester production emits approximately 1.5 to 3.5 kg of CO2 equivalent per kg of fiber, making it a significant contributor to the textile industry’s overall carbon footprint. Furthermore, synthetic textiles are a major source of microplastic pollution, shedding tiny plastic fibres during washing, which then enter waterways and ecosystems, posing a severe threat to aquatic life and potentially human health. A 2017 study published in Environmental Science & Technology estimated that a single wash of synthetic clothes could release hundreds of thousands of microfibers.
Beyond material sourcing, the manufacturing processes often involve harmful chemicals for dyeing, finishing, and achieving specific performance attributes, leading to water pollution and health risks for factory workers and surrounding communities. The fast fashion cycle, where trends dictate rapid production and disposal, exacerbates these issues, contributing to an estimated 92 million tons of textile waste globally each year, much of which ends up in landfills. The athletic apparel segment, valued at over $200 billion globally, contributes a substantial portion to this environmental burden, underscoring the critical need for innovation and more responsible practices within the sector.
Evolving Landscape: The Emergence of Ethical Menswear
For many years, the sustainable fashion industry’s focus on menswear, particularly activewear, remained relatively limited. This disparity reflected broader societal trends in fashion marketing and consumption, where women’s apparel often received more attention in terms of style, variety, and ethical innovation. However, the narrative is progressively changing. A growing segment of male consumers is actively seeking products that align with their values, driven by increased environmental awareness and a desire for conscious consumption. Market research indicates a rising interest in sustainable goods across all demographics, with a 2021 report by Statista showing that 60% of consumers globally are willing to change their purchasing habits to reduce environmental impact. This shift has prompted brands to diversify their ethical offerings, extending their sustainable innovations to men’s activewear for various pursuits, including gym workouts, yoga, hiking, training, and swimming.
The Good On You platform, a leading authority in brand ratings, highlights this evolving landscape by curating highly-rated brands that undergo rigorous assessment for their impact on people, the planet, and animals. Their editorial mission underscores the commitment to transparency and empowering consumers to make informed choices. The platform acknowledges the historical gender imbalance in ethical fashion but actively promotes brands making strides in menswear, offering a valuable resource for discerning shoppers. This shift is not merely a response to market trends but a reflection of a deeper societal movement towards greater responsibility and accountability from corporations.
Pioneering Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing
The transition to more sustainable activewear hinges on the adoption of lower-impact materials and responsible manufacturing processes. Innovative brands are moving away from virgin synthetics and conventional cotton, embracing alternatives that significantly reduce environmental footprints:
- Recycled Polyester (RPET): A primary substitute for virgin polyester, RPET is made from post-consumer plastic waste, primarily plastic bottles. This diverts waste from landfills and oceans, reducing the demand for new fossil fuel resources. The process of making RPET typically uses 59% less energy compared to virgin polyester production. While RPET still shares some characteristics with virgin polyester, such as microplastic shedding, its circularity aspect offers a substantial environmental benefit. The global recycled polyester market size was valued at USD 10.9 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow significantly, indicating a strong industry shift.
- Natural Fibres:
- Organic Cotton: Cultivated without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or genetically modified organisms, organic cotton significantly reduces water pollution and conserves biodiversity compared to conventional cotton, which is one of the most pesticide-intensive crops globally. Organic cotton cultivation uses up to 91% less water than conventional cotton and generates around 46% fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
- Bamboo: Known for its rapid growth without extensive water or pesticides, bamboo can be processed into soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics. The key lies in the processing method; mechanically processed bamboo (bamboo linen) is more eco-friendly than chemically processed rayon/viscose from bamboo, though advancements in closed-loop chemical processes are making them more sustainable.
- TENCEL™ Lyocell: A branded lyocell fibre derived from sustainably sourced wood pulp (eucalyptus, spruce, birch), TENCEL™ is produced in a closed-loop system where 99% of the solvents and water used are recovered and reused. This makes it exceptionally eco-friendly, offering superior softness, breathability, and moisture absorption ideal for activewear. Its production requires significantly less water and land than cotton.
- Ethically Sourced Merino Wool: For performance wear, merino wool offers natural temperature regulation, odour resistance, and moisture-wicking properties. When sourced ethically, it ensures animal welfare (non-mulesed practices) and responsible land management. Merino wool is also biodegradable, breaking down naturally at its end-of-life, returning nutrients to the soil.
Beyond materials, brands are implementing closed-loop production systems, which minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency, and investing in renewable energy sources for their operations. Many are also focusing on fair labour practices, ensuring safe working conditions and fair wages throughout their supply chains, often partnering with organizations like the Fair Labour Association (FLA) or obtaining Fair Trade USA certification. These certifications provide independent verification that brands are adhering to stringent social and environmental standards, giving consumers greater confidence in their purchases.
De-Gendering Fashion: A Progressive Stance
A notable aspect of the evolving fashion landscape, particularly within the ethical sphere, is the progressive stance on gender and clothing. The traditional binary marketing of "menswear" and "womenswear" is increasingly being challenged, with a growing recognition that clothing itself holds no inherent gender. This philosophy advocates for individuals of all genders to express themselves freely through their attire, unconstrained by conventional labels. Good On You, for instance, reflects this belief by automatically delivering search results without gender consideration, allowing users to apply filters only if they specifically seek gender-labeled products. This approach not only promotes inclusivity but also broadens the range of sustainable options available to everyone, encouraging a more fluid and personal approach to style and function. The implications extend to design, where garments are increasingly created with universal fit and aesthetic appeal, transcending outdated gender norms and fostering a more accepting and diverse fashion environment.
Leading the Charge: Brands Defining Ethical Men’s Activewear
Several brands are at the forefront of this movement, demonstrating that high-performance activewear can indeed be produced with a profound respect for people, the planet, and animals. These companies exemplify dedication to sustainability through their material choices, production methods, and corporate philosophies.
Outerknown
Founded by legendary surf champion Kelly Slater, Outerknown embodies a commitment to blending unparalleled style and functionality with rigorous protection of natural resources. The brand holds Bluesign certification, a stringent standard guaranteeing that products are manufactured with minimal environmental impact and responsible use of resources. Furthermore, Outerknown’s partnership with the Fair Labour Association underscores its dedication to upholding fair labour practices across its supply chain, ensuring safe conditions and fair wages. They often incorporate organic cotton, recycled nylon, and hemp into their versatile collections, catering to a range of activities from surfing to everyday wear. Their range typically spans sizes XS-2XL, ensuring a broad fit. Outerknown’s initiatives go beyond product, actively investing in sustainable supply chain development and advocating for cleaner production, reflecting a holistic approach to corporate responsibility.
Colorful Standard
Hailing from Denmark, Colorful Standard champions organic fashion essentials for both men and women. Their core philosophy rejects the fleeting nature of seasonal trends, instead focusing on crafting timeless, durable products designed to counteract the detrimental cycle of over-consumption. They predominantly use 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton, dyed with OEKO-TEX certified dyes, ensuring that the process is free from harmful chemicals and safe for human use. The brand also operates its own factory in Portugal, allowing for direct oversight of labour conditions and environmental standards. Their activewear, while minimalist, offers exceptional quality and comfort, available in sizes XS-2XL. This commitment to longevity and responsible production distinguishes Colorful Standard in a market often driven by disposability.
tentree
The Canadian brand tentree distinguishes itself with an extraordinary environmental commitment: planting ten trees for every single item purchased. This initiative has already led to the planting of over 65 million trees worldwide, contributing significantly to ecosystem regeneration, carbon sequestration, and providing vital planting jobs in various communities, impacting local economies positively. tentree’s Earth-first approach permeates every aspect of its operations, from ensuring fair and safe working conditions to utilizing lower-impact and recycled materials such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, TENCEL™, and hemp. Their activewear collection, available in sizes XS-XL, reflects a balance of performance and planetary stewardship, with pieces like their Pender Tank Top showcasing their dedication to sustainable design. The tangible impact of their tree-planting program provides a powerful narrative for conscious consumers looking to directly contribute to environmental restoration.
Patagonia
A venerable pioneer in outdoor apparel, Patagonia lives and breathes the spirit of the great outdoors. Renowned for its gear designed for trail running, climbing, mountain biking, surfing, skiing, and snowboarding, Patagonia has long been a benchmark for ethical practices. The company maintains "Good" labour practices, actively monitors its supply chain, and is a strong proponent of recycled materials, notably using recycled rather than virgin polyester in many of its products. Patagonia’s commitment extends to reducing its energy consumption and emissions across its operations, aiming for carbon neutrality. The brand also champions circularity through its Worn Wear program, encouraging repair and resale, and offering second-hand options via platforms like Retykle, thereby extending product lifecycles and reducing waste. Their extensive size range, from 2XS-3XL, accommodates a diverse customer base, solidifying its reputation as a leader in responsible outdoor gear.
Tripulse
A Swedish activewear brand, Tripulse is driven by a mission to create high-performing activewear that simultaneously protects the planet and its inhabitants. Their philosophy intertwines physical and mental fitness with a healthy life, empowering individuals to pursue their aspirations. Tripulse primarily uses TENCEL™ and organic cotton, avoiding synthetic materials entirely to mitigate microplastic pollution. Their products are designed for durability and performance, offering excellent breathability and moisture management for intense workouts. The brand is transparent about its supply chain and committed to ethical manufacturing in Europe, ensuring high labour standards. Tripulse stands out for its inclusive sizing, offering most items in sizes XS-6XL, making sustainable activewear accessible to a broader audience and reinforcing their commitment to inclusivity.
BAM (Bamboo Clothing)
UK-based BAM specializes in creating womenswear and menswear basics from sustainably sourced bamboo. The brand achieves a "Good" rating across people, planet, and animals, reflecting its comprehensive ethical approach. BAM is meticulous in tracing most of its supply chain, ensuring transparency and accountability regarding sourcing and production. A notable initiative is their clothing recycling program, which empowers consumers to return end-of-life textiles, thus actively addressing textile waste and promoting a circular economy. Their activewear, known for its incredible softness, breathability, and natural performance properties, is available in sizes XS-L, providing comfortable and eco-conscious options. BAM’s commitment to continuous improvement in its sustainability journey is a core part of its brand identity.
Threads 4 Thought
Threads 4 Thought is dedicated to utilizing a range of lower-impact materials. A key component of their fabric repertoire is TENCEL™ Modal, harvested from the limbs of beech trees. This innovative process ensures that the trees are never cut down, and an impressive 95% of the production materials used to create the yarn are recovered and reused, drastically minimizing environmental impact. The brand also employs organic cotton and recycled polyester, ensuring a diverse sustainable material base. Threads 4 Thought’s manufacturing partners are a combination of Fair Trade USA certified and Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP) certified, guaranteeing ethical labour practices and safe working environments. Available in sizes XS-XL, with an an extended range up to 3XL, they offer stylish and sustainable options for a wide array of activities, from active pursuits to casual wear.
Loop Swim
Co-founded by two women from the US and India and headquartered in Shanghai, Loop Swim is a brand committed to circular design and waste reduction. They ingeniously transform post-consumer plastic bottles into high-quality REPREVE UP50+ sun-protective swimwear for men, women, and children. REPREVE is a leading brand of recycled performance fibres, made from 100
