Psst—You Can Help the Planet Just by Lounging With These Eco-Friendly Athleisure Brands

Photo: Getty/Alvarez
With the Well+Good SHOP, our editors put their years of know-how to work in order to pick products (from skin care to self care and beyond) they’re betting you’ll love. While our editors independently select these products, making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission. Happy shopping! Explore the SHOP

Reusable water bottle? Check. Metal straw? Check. Bamboo utensils for on-the-go snacking? Got em! Our bags are filled with Earth-friendly goodies, but what about the arm that’s carrying them?

Often our lounge and workout clothes are made out of nylon and polyester, which require a ton of energy to create and are not sustainable. According to the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, the fashion industry is responsible for about 10 percent of global carbon emissions and nearly 20 percent of wastewater. The clothes we choose to wear should be the next step in our eco-evolution, and activewear is just the place to start.

With so many environmentally-conscious athleisure companies popping up on the market, these eco-friendly activewear brands make it easy, affordable, and cool to shop sustainably without compromising style. Scroll to find 10 brands that care as much about the Earth as they do about style. 

10  eco-friendly activewear brands to keep on your radar

1. Wolven

Wolven, Aqua Auring Leggings — $88.00

Wolven activewear is made from recycled plastic bottles and carbon-neutral fabrics. They also partner with Climate Neutral to offset their operations carbon footprint. If you’re as pro-pattern as I am, the Aqua Auring ($88) are the answer to your prayers. Soft enough to pair with a sweater for a cozy WFH ‘fit but durable enough to withstand a HIIT Zoom workout, they are a versatile choice so you look cool no matter what you’re up to.

2. Lively

eco-friendly activewear brands
Lively, Active Biker Shorts — $55.00

This fan-favorite bra line expanded with eco-friendly activewear, lounge, and swim staples, all made from 75 percent recycled polyester. Need some ideas? The Active Racerback Bra ($35) holds everything in place and is officially a staple in my permanent workout-wear collection. Paired with the matching Biker Shorts ($55), and you’ll feel as good as you look.

3. Buck Mason

Buck Mason, Vintage Interloop Wide Leg Sweatpant — $85.00

W+G commerce writer Francesca Krempa dubbed these, “probably the plushest sweats you’ll ever put on.” All of Buck Mason’s men’s and women’s styles are “grown and sewn” in America, made from responsibly grown, organic cotton that will make you wonder why you ever wore anything else. Seriously—slip into the Interloop Sweatpants ($85) and Oversized Crew ($85) combo and see what we mean.

4. Girlfriend Collective

Girlfriend Collective, Classic Joggers — $78.00

Not only does Girlfriend Collective use recycled materials and organic cotton for their styles, they also use recycled, reusable packaging for their shipping. The Classic Joggers ($78) are officially the uniform of Cozytown, and I refuse to change out of them. Available in five pastel shades, the high-waisted pants are perfect for a quick sweat sesh or with a classic leather jacket out to brunch.

5. Yoga Democracy

eco-friendly activewear brands
Yoga Democracy, Goovy Girl Printed Bell Bottoms

With tops, shorts, and leggings all made from recycled polyester and nylon, Yoga Democracy uses a low-energy, zero-water process, non-toxic dyes, and donates 10 percent of sales to a variety of environmental causes. The sweat-wicking, totally tubular-looking, sun-protecting Groovy Girl Printed Bell Bottoms ($90) speak for themselves, don’t they?

6. Avocado

Avocado, Josie Jumpsuit — $150.00

Fun fact: Avocado was founded by former professional ping pong athlete, Christina Choi, with the mission to create the sustainable athleisure-wear she wished to exist in the world. Its soft-but-sculpting line of leggings, tanks, and bras look as good as on the couch as they do on the court (or at the ping pong table.) Mix and match separates or take the easy way out with the sleek Josie Jumpsuit ($150) that’s ideal for slow yoga flows, barre class, or Netflix browsing.

7. Summersalt

eco-friendly-activewear
Photo: SummerSalt
Summersalt, Beyond the Lounge Chair Windbreaker — $95.00

Summersalt’s products are the perfect combo of data-backed sizing, durability, and sustainability. After taking over 1.5 million measurements from all body types around the country, they created looks that fit every body and are meant to last. They also use recycled materials in production and in packaging. The Beyond the Lounge Chair Windbreaker ($95) is colorful, breathable, and great for rain or shine. I can’t say no to anything in a color block and it even has a hidden hood for emergencies.

8. Bamboo Ave

Bamboo Ave, Boundless Short — $64.00

Gentlemen—summer is around the corner, and there’s no better way to prep than with a pair of Bamboo Ave’s durable, versatile shorts. The best-selling Boundless Shorts ($64) are made from two sustainable superstars: upcycled coconut shells and recycled water bottles, making them as eco-friendly as they are functional. They’re waterproof and lined, meaning you can literally live in them all season long.

9. Nubia Natalie 

eco-friendly activewear brands
Nubia Natalie, Lupita Sports Bra — $58.00

Nubia Natalie is “passionate about producing quality activewear with a social impact.” They work with traditional ethnic minority tribes in Mexico to support artisan’s work while also using recycled and eco-friendly fabrics. The Lupita Sports Bra ($58) is super supportive, and a portion of every sale is donated to the Huichol Center.

10. Kotn 

Kotn, Midi Ribbed Cardigan — $82.00

If there was one word to describe Kotn’s minimalist men’s and women’s styles, it would be “effortless.” The Canadian brand is beloved by W+G staff for its easy breezy designs made using organic Egyptian cotton grown on ethical farms and sewn in equitable factories. Buy a set, or mix and match pieces like this drapey cardigan for a timeless, cozy look.

Oh hi! You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cult-fave wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content. Sign up for Well+, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly. 

Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission.

Loading More Posts...