What Should I Wear to Work Out? How to Make Eco-Friendly Clothing Choices
We all want to stay fit and healthy—but have you ever stopped to think about the impact your workout clothes have on the planet? That go-to pair of leggings or breathable t-shirt is likely made from synthetic plastic fibres like polyester, nylon or spandex— derived from fossil fuels. And although they help you perform at your best, they come at a high environmental cost.
Even natural fibres aren’t without their environmental problems. Cotton production requires huge volumes of water and pesticides. Wool comes from sheep that produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas. And bamboo, while seemingly eco-friendly, can involve polluting chemical processes during manufacture. Add it all up, and the apparel and footwear industries generate mountains of plastic waste and are responsible for over 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
What Can I Do?
At Take 3 for the Sea, we believe every small action matters. It is possible to make better choices without giving up the comfort and performance we rely on:
- Choose Sustainably Sourced Natural Fibers or Opt For Recycled Fibres
Look for natural fibers that are sustainably sourced and produced with minimal environmental impact. Organic cotton, responsibly farmed wool, and hemp are great choices, as they require fewer chemicals and water than conventional options. Alternatively, some brands are now producing activewear from recycled materials—like old plastic bottles and fishing nets—reducing waste in our oceans and landfills. These options don’t just keep plastic out of nature; they often require fewer resources to produce. Look for tags that mention “recycled polyester” or similar terms. While these options are better for the environment, it’s important to remember that they still come from plastic. As you sweat, chemicals in these fibers, such as BPA and phthalates, can be absorbed through your skin, potentially impacting your health.
- Check for Certifications
There’s no perfect fabric, but certain standards can help you navigate your options. Certifications like GRS (Global Recycled Standard), OEKO-TEX, and Bluesign® indicate that garments meet specific environmental and social responsibility benchmarks.
- Wash less often
Wash your clothes less often and in cold water to reduce microplastic shedding. If you can, get a microplastics filter fitted to your washing machine.
- Think Long-Term
Durability matters. A well-made synthetic garment that lasts years is better than a natural-fibre item that falls apart in a few months. When you buy quality over quantity, you reduce your need to replace—and discard—clothing. And when you’re finished with a garment, donate or recycle it responsibly.
