As the activewear market continues to grow, sportswear designers focus their efforts on developing performance materials made from sustainable sources. But what kinds of fabrics are used in the most popular activewear designs, and what impact on the environment do these materials have? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the most popular activewear fabrics, so that you can make informed decisions when supporting the sustainable activewear movement.
1. Performance with Sustainability: Why Activewear Fabrics Matter
As the activewear market continues to expand, so too does the search for fabrics that offer strong performance capabilities while still being sustainable. It’s no longer enough for brands to deliver high-performance fabrics; increasingly, consumers want products with materials that strive for a balance between maximum performance and long-term sustainability.
Take sportswear fabrics, for example. The most durable fabrics in this category not only need to give maximum performance – whether that’s compression, moisture wicking, or durability – but also need to be sustainable. Here, some of the key ingredients have to be chemical recycling, natural-derived non-toxic dyes, and fabrics that are OEKO-TEX or Bluesign standard-certified.
When choosing fabrics for activewear, brands need to look at these key factors:
- Performance: Is the fabric’s performance suited to specific activities or sports?
- Durability: Does the fabric provide long-term wear?
- Sustainability: Does the fabric meet any environmental standards for production?
For responsible brands, performance products and sustainable fabric choices are no longer at odds; in fact, finding the perfect balance between the two is now the ultimate goal. When performance and sustainability meet in activewear fabrics, consumers can be confident that their purchases are helping to protect the planet’s future.
2. Taking a Closer Look at Performance Fabrics
Performance fabrics are revolutionizing the way that we approach our workout clothing. From gym apparel, to running attire and swimming gear, these versatile materials provide increased comfort, better breathability, and optimal temperature control.
- Moisture Wicking – By quickly and effectively moving perspiration from your skin to the outside of your garment, moisture wicking performance fabrics promote dryness, comfort and ultimately a higher level of performance.
- Softness & Breathability – Performance fabrics have an incredibly soft handfeel which makes them incredibly comfortable as well as breathable, so they won’t make you feel weighed down.
- Thermoregulating– Fabrics design to regulate your body temperature can keep you feeling comfortable even if you are exercising in the heat of summer or the cold of winter.
- Fast Drying – Performance fabrics provide an airy atmosphere for vapor to dissipate more quickly, meaning your gear will dry faster.
Plus, many performance fabrics are designed in a way that makes them perfect for the environmentally conscious athlete. Many materials are either made of recycled polyester yarns or are authentically organic. They are also made with features that allow you to look good and feel good in your workout wear.
Whether you are an experienced athlete or stepping into the world of fitness, performance fabrics can be the ideal choice for activewear that truly performs.
3. Assessing the Role of Sustainability in Fabrics
What is Sustainability in Fabrics?
Sustainability in fabrics refers to the production processes and materials used to create textiles. It covers a wide range of elements, from ethical labor standards, water use, and toxic chemical processes, to end-of-life environmental considerations. Essentially, it is the intersection of manufacturing and ecological conservation.
Assessment Criteria
- Raw materials: What materials are going into the fabric? Does the processing of those materials use hazardous chemicals? Do the materials come from sustainable sources?
- Production process: How is the fabric being made? Is the production process environmentally friendly? Does it use renewable energy and low-impact practices?
- End of life considerations: What happens to the fabric when it is no longer needed? Can it be recycled or composted? Does it degrade quickly with minimal environmental impact?
A thorough assessment of the sustainability of a fabric can be complex. It requires careful research into the production process, raw materials, and end of life considerations. It is also important to recognize that each element of sustainability has its own set of criteria and standards.
One helpful tool when assessing the sustainability of a fabric is the Higg index, which is an online platform that offers a comprehensive system for analyzing sustainability in textiles. The Higg index can provide a detailed report on the environmental and social impacts of a fabric, along with a score to compare fabrics against one another. Using the Higg index can be a great way to bring clarity and consistency to the assessment process.
4. Examining the Benefits of Activewear Fabrics
Athletic apparel is designed to keep up with your active lifestyle. From running to the gym and practicing yoga in the backyard, activewear fabrics are made to support your body and moves. Some of these fabrics feature moisture-wicking, breathable and anti-microbial qualities to make workouts even more enjoyable.
Here are a few other benefits of activewear fabrics:
- Durability: Activewear fabrics stay intact no matter how hard you work out. Plus, they’re resistant to fading, snagging and shrinking.
- Thermal Regulation: Most activewear fabrics contain technologies like imbedded cooling fibers to keep you comfortable while you exercise in the heat.
- Stink-Proof: Sweat-wicking fabrics pull moisture away from your body, disperse it into the fabric and evaporate quickly so you don’t end up smelling like a locker room.
- Visual Appeal: Activewear now comes in a range of colors and styles, so you can look your best while you sweat.
Wherever your workout takes you, the right activewear fabrics will your help reach your fitness goals. Enjoy the freedom of working out with fabrics that don’t restrict your movement or health.
5. Investigating the Potential Drawbacks of Performance Materials
When selecting performance materials, it’s critical to consider both the advantages and potential drawbacks that come with them. Here are five things to keep in mind:
- Durability – Performance materials may be known for their strength and resilience, but they can also be susceptible to damage if they are not handled properly. Check the manufacturer’s warranty to confirm the expected durability or longevity of the materials.
- Cost – While you may have to pay slightly more upfront for more durable materials, it can be beneficial long-term considering the materials will tend to last longer. Be sure to review the associated expenses and calculate them over several years of use to determine the true cost.
- Comfort – Comfort is an important factor when working with performance materials, especially with extended or frequent use. Make sure the material is not too hard and that it goes easy on your skin, joints, and muscles.
- Environmentally friendly – Many of the performance materials used today are not exactly eco-friendly. Consider the environmental impact of the materials and opt for green alternatives like recycled materials and natural products.
- Design – Although performance materials are widely available in different shapes, sizes, colors, and structures, they may not always fit with some of your design preferences. Be sure to carefully consider the overall look of the materials with the rest of the design.
6. Moving Towards a Greener Future in Activewear Fabrics
The outdoor apparel industry, driven by awareness of conservation and sustainability, is launching into the world of green fabrics. With its newfound attention on eco-friendly fabrics, activewear has seen a transformation in motivations, from performance optimization to environmental consciousness.
- Recycled Fibres
- Organic Cotton and Plant-Derived Fabric
- Biopolymers Fabric
Today, most garment manufacturers are using recycled fibres for their activewear. Recycled polymers are now commonly used as the main blend to create “green” activewear fabric. Unlike traditional polymers, recycled fibres require much less energy to manufacture, producing 80% less CO2 emissions in comparison. Additionally, by utilizing recycled fibres, less waste is created and put into landfills.
In recent years, activewear has been using organic cotton and fabric derived from plants, such as bamboo and soy. Other plant fibers used in activewear are from corn and flax. These fabrics are renewable, sustainable, and reduce pollution in many ways. As a bonus of being organically grown, organic cotton does not require pesticides. Plant-derived fabrics also require fewer resources to manufacture, resulting in a lower carbon footprint.
Biopolymer fabric, which is made from petrochemicals, has also been gaining popularity due to its durability and eco-friendly properties. Biopolymer fabric is derived from renewable sources and manufacturing the fabric uses significantly fewer resources, making it a great option for the world of activewear.
With the advancements in green fabrics, the activewear industry is meeting the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly activewear. As the industry continues moving towards a greener and more sustainable future, consumers can now be certain that their activewear is made from eco-friendly fabrics.
Activewear fabrics offer fitness and fashion enthusiasts a broad spectrum of options to choose for their wardrobe. Whether seeking eco-friendly solutions or a performance boost, activewear fabric options have evolved to meet various needs and demands with more sustainability-oriented advances on the horizon. As activewear continues to take the lead as the most stylish and comfortable way to look and feel your best, understanding these fabrics can help you make the most of your workout wardrobe. Stay stylish and stay active.
