Sustainable Sportswear: The future of athletic apparel

In recent years, sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration for consumers in all aspects of their lives. This trend is particularly pronounced in the fashion industry, where fast fashion and other unsustainable practices have come under scrutiny. Now, consumers are looking for clothing that not only looks good and performs well, but also has a minimal impact on the environment. This trend has now expanded to athletic apparel as well. In this blog post, we'll explore the growing trend of sustainable sportswear, and why it's important for both athletes and the planet. 

What is Sustainable Sportswear?

Sustainable sportswear is athletic apparel that is designed and produced with the goal of minimising it’s impact on the environment. This can take many forms, such as using recycled or biodegradable materials, minimising waste in the production process, and ensuring ethical labour practices throughout the supply chain. Brands that prioritise sustainability in their sportswear lines often use organic cotton, recycled polyester, and other materials that are grown or produced without harmful chemicals. They also use eco-friendly production methods, such as waterless dyeing and using renewable energy sources.

Why is Sustainable Sportswear Important?

There are several reasons why sustainable sportswear is important, both for athletes and the planet. Here are just a few:

• Environmental Impact

The production of traditional athletic apparel can have a significant environmental impact. From the pesticides used in cotton farming to the carbon emissions from transportation, there are many ways in which the production and distribution of sportswear can harm the environment. Sustainable sportswear, on the other hand, is designed to minimise this impact. By using recycled or biodegradable materials, and minimising waste in the production process, these brands are working to reduce their carbon footprint and protect the planet for future generations.

• Health Benefits

Sustainable sportswear is often made from natural, non-toxic materials that are better for your skin and overall health. For example, organic cotton is grown without the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals, which can irritate sensitive skin. Additionally, sustainable sportswear is often designed to be more breathable and moisture-wicking, which can help prevent rashes and other skin irritations that can be caused by synthetic materials.

• Social Responsibility

Many sustainable sportswear brands prioritise ethical labour practices throughout their supply chain. This means that they ensure fair wages and safe working conditions for everyone involved in the production process, from the farmers who grow the cotton to the workers who sew the garments. This commitment to social responsibility is an important consideration for many consumers who want to support brands that align with their values.

How to Shop for Sustainable Sportswear

If you're interested in purchasing sustainable sportswear, there are several things to look for. First, check the label to see what materials the garment is made from. Look for organic cotton, recycled polyester, or other eco-friendly materials. Additionally, look for brands that prioritise sustainable production methods, such as using renewable energy sources and minimising waste. Thankfully, Squareco only stock sustainable sports brands, making it easier for you to shop greener. Finally, do your research to ensure that the brand has a commitment to social responsibility throughout their supply chain. 

Some of our favourite sustainable sportswear brands include Patagonia, Veja, and Girlfriend Collective. These brands have made a commitment to sustainability and have implemented a variety of initiatives to reduce their environmental impact. Patagonia is also committed to reducing its carbon footprint. The company has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions in its operations, such as using renewable energy sources, recycled materials and optimising shipping and transportation to reduce emissions. Patagonia has also set ambitious goals to reduce its carbon footprint and has committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2025. In addition to promoting sustainability in its operations, Patagonia is also an outspoken advocate for environmental causes. The company has donated millions of dollars to environmental organisations and has launched campaigns to protect public lands and reduce the use of harmful chemicals in the textile industry. Patagonia has also launched a number of initiatives to educate consumers about environmental issues and encourage them to take action. Patagonia's brand sustainability is a model for other companies to follow. 

At Squareco, we understand the importance of sustainability in athletic apparel. That's why we're committed to offering a wide selection of sustainable sportswear from some of the top brands in the industry. Our collection includes eco-friendly running shorts, moisture-wicking t-shirts made from Repreve, and cagoules made from discarded festival tents. We're always looking for new and innovative ways to reduce our environmental impact and provide our customers with the best possible products. 

In addition to our commitment to sustainability, we also offer competitive pricing, fast shipping, and excellent customer service. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting out, our selection of sustainable sportswear has something for everyone. Shop our collection today and join the growing movement towards a more sustainable future.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sustainable sportswear is a growing trend that is important for both athletes and the planet. By choosing eco-friendly materials and production methods, brands can minimise their environmental impact and provide customers with healthier, more sustainable products. As consumers, we can support these efforts by choosing to shop for sustainable sportswear and supporting brands that prioritise sustainability and social responsibility. At our online sportswear shop, we're proud to be a part of this movement towards a more sustainable future, and we hope that you'll join us.