A Workout You Can Feel Good About
Even though it’s been more than a year since there was a shift from on-the-go to online and work-from-home, comfort and activewear still reign supreme. Why put on a restricting suit or suffocating button-up shirt when you can slip into something more comfortable? Not only do our flexible schedules allow for a shift in the normative everyday attire, but perhaps working from home or cutting down on commute times allows more time for self-care, which includes exercising or yoga.
Most activewear, although usually as comfortable as ever, is made from synthetic materials that *surprise, surprise* are not great for our environment. But the silver lining is that many emerging brands employ organic or plant-based materials, so you can work up a sweat without working up any extra guilt. If your new personal uniform consists of leggings and bra tops galore, then read on for PhotoBook’s compilation of the best sustainable.
Girlfriend Collective
For Girlfriend Collective, transparency is key. On its website there is mention that all of its activewear is packaged in 100% recycled and recyclable materials. The compressed leggings and bras consist of 79% recycled polyester, the LITE leggings are made from Econyl®, which reconfigures fishing net and plastic waste, and many of the other products use innovative, reworked materials. From an environmental standpoint, the products check all of the boxes. Girlfriend Collective isn’t lacking in the aesthetics department either, as its products come in a range of pleasing colorways.
Summersalt
With Summersalt comfort meets style meets sustainability. The brand offers a wide range of selections, from swimwear to outerwear, but its eco-friendly activewear collection is more than worth spotlighting since it uses almost 100% recycled polyester. All of the cute and versatile sports bra tops incorporate eight water bottles into their materials. This is eight fewer water bottles, per bra, which could possibly have infiltrated our oceans and habitats. We’re so excited about Summersalt that we’re somersaulting ourselves – and you should be too.
The Pangaia’s Activewear collection
In recent years, the iconic brand Pangaia became comfort-clothing royalty. The company amassed a cult following because of its dedication to doing good, and to the irresistibly chic iterations of loungewear. To further that momentum, the beloved brand released an activewear collection, in June, which is entirely plant-based. Wear your greens and eat them too, with Pangaia’s workout apparel made from seaweed, eucalyptus, microalgae, and more.
Now, you don’t have to think twice about following through with those New Year’s resolutions to hit the gym, because you can do so in style, and with a good conscience.
Article by Kayla Curtis-Evans,
Contributing Sustainable Editor PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Alexa Dyer, Graphic Design Intern, PhotoBook Magazine
