The best sustainable running clothes need to meet the standards of consumers and help take care of the environment as well. Runners require sportswear that is elastic, breathable, antibacterial, and quick-drying among other characteristics. But, Where do we find the best running clothes? And, How do we know it´s the best in terms of style, functionality, and sustainability? At the Running Republic, we are committed to providing the best-quality garments for runners that are thoughtful about the environment. Also, our sustainable running clothes are certified which means they comply with standards set by organizations such as GRS, GOTS, and OEKO-TEX.
What are sustainable running clothes?
Simply put, sustainable running clothes are made from natural fabrics and recycled materials using less harmful production processes that take fewer resources such as water and energy.
Other considerations are also taken into account, for example, production is usually local, reducing transportation and CO2 emissions. Plastics may be used as raw material in an effort to divert them from landfills and oceans. Overall, sustainable running clothes are produced in an eco-friendly and socially responsible manner.
Natural fabrics
Natural organic fabrics are one of the main raw materials used to produce sustainable running clothes and garments. In general, organic fabrics are grown ethically using fewer resources and chemicals.
Organic cotton, for example, is a popular choice in sustainable running clothes; it uses less water and energy than conventional cotton. Traditional cotton production is much faster but requires more chemicals and pesticides that are harmful to the farmers and the environment.
Bamboo, in turn, is a fast-growing plant that does not require large amounts of water, pesticides, and insecticides. It has moisture-wicking, antibacterial and elastic properties that make it very suitable for sportswear.
Hemp is widely used in the textile industry and can be grown ethically without the use of pesticides and insecticides. It is also UV-protectant and very durable. On the downside, it is not as elastic as other fibers but a choice to consider.
Other options are available such as sustainably farmed eucalyptus and clean silk. Dyeing processes may be organic as well using mango leaves and redwood bark for example.
How to make sure our sportswear was made with natural fabrics?
You will want to make sure your clothes are certified organic by the likes of GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and similar organizations. Clothes labeled organic were produced under strict guidelines that regulate production and the use of chemicals and pesticides.
Recycled materials
Recycled materials use post-industrial and post-consumer waste as their main raw materials to produce garments. Recycled polyester, for example, is among the top choices for sustainable running clothes and is produced from recycled bottles and other industrial polyester waste. It has great properties that make it suitable for sportswear such as strength and elasticity.
Recycled nylon is another example of a high-performing fabric used for sustainable running clothes and activewear in general. It is sometimes called econyl and is manufactured from post-industrial and post-consumer waste such as fishing nets, fabric scraps among others. Its properties are very similar to recycled polyester in terms of elasticity and durability.
Sustainable clothes made with recycled materials. What to look for?
You may want to take a look at our collection of high-quality items made especially for runners and athletes using at least 74% recycled plastics and fewer resources. Our clothing complies with the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) and OEKO-TEX standard 100.
In a nutshell, deciding to wear sustainable running clothes is not only a trend but a necessity nowadays. At The Running Republic, we bring forth options for people who want to enjoy workouts in an eco-friendly and responsible manner. By wearing clothing made from organic and recycled materials, we greatly contribute to reducing the waste and the resources used to make the fabrics.