16 Recycled Plastic Athletic Apparel Brands You Need to Know (2026) ♻️

Did you know that the average plastic bottle takes up to 450 years to decompose, yet it can be reborn as your next favorite pair of leggings? At Athletic Brands™, we’ve laced up, stretched out, and sweat-tested the best recycled plastic athletic apparel on the market—and trust us, the future of sustainable sportswear is here, and it’s nothing short of game-changing. From ocean-bound plastics transformed into high-performance fabrics to brands pioneering circular fashion models, this guide uncovers everything you need to know about rocking eco-friendly gear without compromising style or function.

Curious how your workout clothes can help save the planet while keeping you comfortable and motivated? Stick around as we reveal the top 16 brands leading the charge, break down the science behind recycled fibers, and share insider tips on caring for your gear to maximize both longevity and environmental impact. Ready to turn plastic waste into your personal power play? Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

  • Recycled plastic athletic apparel reduces plastic waste and carbon emissions by transforming post-consumer plastics into durable, high-performance fabrics.
  • Performance and durability match or exceed traditional synthetic gear, making eco-friendly choices practical for all athletes.
  • Top brands like Patagonia, Adidas, and Girlfriend Collective are innovating with recycled fibers and circular economy initiatives.
  • Proper care of recycled gear minimizes microplastic shedding and extends garment life, amplifying your positive impact.
  • The future of sustainable sportswear includes bio-based fibers and closed-loop recycling, promising even greener options ahead.

For the best selection of recycled plastic activewear, check out these brands on Amazon or their official sites:

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

Welcome to the ultimate guide on recycled plastic athletic apparel—your go-to resource for eco-friendly workout gear! At Athletic Brands™, we’ve tested, worn, and loved a ton of sustainable sportswear, and we’re here to share the best tips and facts to get you started on your green fitness journey. 🌿💪

  • Recycled plastic apparel typically uses RPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate) fibers made from post-consumer plastic bottles.
  • These fabrics reduce carbon footprint and plastic waste by diverting bottles from landfills and oceans.
  • Performance-wise, recycled fabrics can match or even outperform virgin polyester in moisture-wicking, breathability, and durability.
  • Beware of microplastic shedding during washing—use a Guppyfriend bag or specialized filters to minimize pollution.
  • Look for certifications like Global Recycled Standard (GRS) or OEKO-TEX to avoid greenwashing.
  • Top brands embracing recycled plastic include Patagonia, Adidas, Girlfriend Collective, and Nike.
  • Caring for your gear properly extends its life and environmental benefits—wash cold, air dry, and repair when possible.

Curious how your favorite leggings might have started life as a plastic bottle? Keep reading—we’ll unravel the journey and help you pick the best gear for your workouts and the planet! 🌏✨

For more on sustainable athletic gear, check out our Athletic Brand Guides and Brand Spotlights.

🌿 The Eco-Athlete’s Edge: Why Recycled Plastic Athletic Apparel is Revolutionizing Your Workout

Video: Is Recycled Plastic Clothing Sustainable… or just greenwashing?

From Landfill to Leggings: The Incredible Journey of RPET Fabric

Imagine this: a plastic bottle tossed into a recycling bin embarks on a high-tech adventure, transforming into your next favorite pair of running shorts. That’s the magic of RPET fabric—made by shredding, melting, and spinning recycled plastic bottles into soft, durable fibers.

Our team at Athletic Brands™ has seen firsthand how this process reduces reliance on virgin petroleum-based materials and cuts down on plastic pollution. The first step involves collecting post-consumer plastics, which are cleaned and chopped into flakes. These flakes are then melted and extruded into yarn, which is woven or knitted into performance fabrics. This journey is brilliantly showcased in the REPREVE recycling process video, where plastic bottles become high-quality yarn used by brands worldwide.

Beyond the Buzzword: Why Sustainable Sportswear Matters Now More Than Ever

Sustainability in sportswear isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessity. The fashion industry is responsible for nearly 10% of global carbon emissions, and synthetic fibers like polyester contribute heavily to microplastic pollution. By choosing recycled plastic athletic apparel, you’re making a direct impact on reducing waste and conserving resources.

Plus, many brands are now innovating with circular economy models, meaning your gear can be recycled again at the end of its life. It’s a win-win: you get high-performance, stylish apparel, and the planet gets a breather. Curious how this all stacks up against traditional gear? Let’s dive into the benefits next.

Unpacking the “Why”: The Game-Changing Benefits of Choosing Recycled Plastic Apparel

Video: Where To Find 100% Cotton Clothing, Why is Polyester Bad, How To Shop for Sustainable Gym Clothes.

1. Environmental Victory: Reducing Waste & Carbon Footprint 🌍

  • Plastic waste reduction: Every pound of recycled polyester saves approximately 12 pounds of CO2 emissions compared to virgin polyester (source: Textile Exchange).
  • Diverts millions of plastic bottles from oceans and landfills annually.
  • Conserves water and energy during production compared to virgin fibers.

2. Performance Powerhouse: Does Recycled Mean Compromised? 💪

Our athletes tested recycled plastic apparel across running, yoga, and high-intensity training. The verdict? Performance is on par or better than traditional synthetic gear:

Feature Recycled Plastic Apparel Virgin Polyester Apparel
Moisture Wicking ✅ Excellent ✅ Excellent
Breathability ✅ Very Good ✅ Very Good
Stretch & Recovery ✅ Comparable ✅ Comparable
Odor Resistance ✅ Often enhanced ✅ Standard
Durability ✅ Equal or superior ✅ Standard

Brands like Adidas and Girlfriend Collective use recycled fibers blended with elastane for stretch and comfort without sacrificing durability.

3. Durability & Longevity: Built to Last (and Last Again!) ⏳

Recycled plastic fabrics tend to be highly durable, resisting pilling and wear. Our testers found that leggings and tops made with RPET lasted through dozens of washes with minimal fading or loss of shape.

4. Supporting Innovation & Circularity in Fashion 🔄

By buying recycled plastic athletic apparel, you support brands investing in innovative recycling technologies and closed-loop systems. Patagonia’s Worn Wear program and Adidas’s partnership with Parley for the Oceans are prime examples of circularity in action.

The Nitty-Gritty: How Your Recycled Gear is Actually Made

Video: Are Recycled Plastic Clothes Really Sustainable? Pros and Cons of Turning Bottles into Sports Bras.

PET Plastic: The Unsung Hero of Sustainable Textiles 🌟

PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is the plastic used in most beverage bottles. It’s lightweight, durable, and highly recyclable. When recycled, PET becomes RPET fiber, the backbone of many sustainable athletic lines.

The Transformation Process: From Bottle Flake to Performance Fabric

Step-by-step:

  1. Collection: Bottles are gathered from recycling centers, beaches, and ocean cleanup projects.
  2. Sorting & Cleaning: Non-PET materials are removed; bottles are washed to eliminate contaminants.
  3. Shredding: Bottles are chopped into small flakes.
  4. Melting & Extruding: Flakes are melted at high temperatures and extruded through spinnerets to form yarn.
  5. Spinning & Weaving: Yarn is spun into threads and woven or knitted into fabric.
  6. Finishing: Fabric is dyed (often with low-impact dyes) and treated for performance features.

Beyond Bottles: Other Recycled Materials in Athletic Wear

Some brands incorporate recycled fishing nets, nylon waste, and even discarded textiles to create innovative blends. For example, Patagonia’s NetPlus® line uses recycled fishing nets, while Nike’s Grind program recycles manufacturing scraps into new products.

Addressing the Elephant in the Room: Concerns and Smart Considerations

Video: How 1.5 Million Plastic Bottles Are Turned Into Clothing Every Day | World Wide Waste.

Microplastic Shedding: A Tiny Problem with Big Implications for Your Gear 🔬

Synthetic fabrics, including recycled polyester, shed microfibers during washing, contributing to ocean pollution. Our team recommends:

  • Using a Guppyfriend washing bag or Cora Ball to catch fibers.
  • Washing in cold water with gentle cycles.
  • Avoiding fabric softeners that break down fibers.

This issue is why some eco-conscious athletes also explore plastic-free activewear options (see EcoCult’s guide).

The Greenwashing Gauntlet: Spotting Authentic Sustainability ✅❌

Not all “recycled” claims are created equal. Look for:

  • Third-party certifications like GRS or Bluesign.
  • Transparent supply chains and brand reporting.
  • Avoid vague marketing buzzwords without proof.

Cost vs. Value: Is the Investment in Eco-Friendly Apparel Worth It? 💰

Eco-friendly gear can be pricier upfront, but durability and performance often justify the cost. Plus, you’re investing in a healthier planet. Our athletes found that recycled plastic apparel holds up well, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Your Ultimate Playbook: Choosing the Best Recycled Plastic Athletic Apparel

Video: This Australian Outdoor Apparel Is Made From Recycled Plastics.

What to Look For: Key Features, Certifications, and Transparency

  • Material content: Aim for 50%+ recycled content for meaningful impact.
  • Certifications: GRS, OEKO-TEX, Bluesign.
  • Performance features: Moisture-wicking, four-way stretch, odor control.
  • Brand transparency: Supply chain details, sustainability reports.
  • Recyclability: Can the garment be recycled again?

Top Brands Leading the Charge in Sustainable Sportswear (Our Personal Picks!)

We’ve rated these brands on a 1-10 scale across design, functionality, sustainability, and transparency:

Brand Design Functionality Sustainability Transparency Overall
Patagonia 9 9 10 10 9.5
Adidas 8 9 9 8 8.5
Nike 8 9 8 7 8
Girlfriend Collective 9 8 9 9 8.75
Outdoor Voices 8 8 8 8 8
Tentree 7 7 9 9 8
Vuori 8 9 8 7 8
Everlane 8 7 9 9 8.25
Athleta 8 9 8 8 8.25
Lululemon 9 10 7 7 8.25
P.E Nation 8 8 7 7 7.5
Sweaty Betty 8 8 8 8 8
Wolven Threads 9 8 9 9 8.75
Prana 7 7 9 8 7.75
Manduka 7 8 9 8 8
Under Armour 8 9 7 7 7.75

1. Patagonia: The OG of Outdoor Sustainability

Patagonia is a pioneer in using recycled materials, including recycled plastic bottles and fishing nets. Their Capilene® line offers moisture-wicking, durable fabrics made with 100% recycled polyester. Their commitment to transparency and circularity is unmatched.

2. Adidas: From Ocean Plastic to Performance Gear

Adidas partners with Parley for the Oceans to create shoes and apparel from intercepted ocean plastic. Their Futurecraft Loop sneaker is 100% recyclable, and their recycled polyester gear performs at elite athlete levels.

3. Nike: Move to Zero and Beyond

Nike’s Move to Zero initiative focuses on zero carbon and zero waste, incorporating recycled polyester in many collections. Their Dri-FIT fabrics blend recycled fibers for breathability and stretch.

4. Girlfriend Collective: Style, Comfort, and Radical Transparency

Girlfriend Collective’s leggings and sports bras are made from 100% recycled water bottles. The brand is known for inclusive sizing, ethical manufacturing, and vibrant colors.

5. Outdoor Voices: Recreation, Community, and Recycled Materials

Outdoor Voices uses recycled polyester blends in their activewear, focusing on comfort and versatility for all-day wear.

6. Tentree: Planting Trees with Every Purchase, Sustainably Sourced

Tentree combines recycled fibers with a mission to plant ten trees for every item sold, blending sustainability with social impact.

7. Vuori: Performance Ethos Meets Sustainable Practices

Vuori incorporates recycled polyester in their soft, stretchy fabrics designed for yoga and outdoor activities.

8. Everlane: Modern Basics with a Sustainable Edge

Everlane’s ReNew collection uses recycled plastic bottles for everyday activewear basics with a minimalist aesthetic.

9. Athleta: Empowering Women with Eco-Conscious Activewear

Athleta blends recycled fibers with performance features and is committed to fair trade and sustainable sourcing.

10. Lululemon: Innovating Performance with Recycled Fibers

Lululemon’s Everlux fabric incorporates recycled polyester for high-sweat workouts with quick drying and durability.

11. P.E Nation: Fashion-Forward Sportswear with a Green Heart {#11-p.e-nation-fashion-forward-sportswear-with-a-green-heart}

P.E Nation blends recycled materials with bold designs, appealing to fashion-conscious athletes.

12. Sweaty Betty: Empowering Women, Sustainably Styled

Sweaty Betty uses recycled fibers in their collections, focusing on empowering women through style and sustainability.

13. Wolven Threads: Yoga Wear Inspired by Nature, Made from Recycled Bottles

Wolven Threads creates vibrant yoga apparel from recycled plastic, emphasizing nature-inspired prints and eco-conscious production.

14. Prana: Conscious Clothing for Active Lifestyles

Prana uses recycled polyester blends and organic cotton, focusing on ethical sourcing and fair labor.

15. Manduka: Sustainable Yoga Gear for Mindful Movement

Manduka’s yoga mats and apparel incorporate recycled materials with a focus on durability and sustainability.

16. Under Armour: Performance Innovation with a Sustainable Twist

Under Armour integrates recycled polyester in their high-performance gear, balancing innovation with sustainability.

Beyond These Giants: Discovering Emerging Eco-Friendly Brands

Keep an eye on startups and niche brands pushing the envelope with recycled and bio-based fibers, transparent supply chains, and circular business models. These innovators often offer unique styles and cutting-edge sustainability.

Caring for Your Eco-Friendly Gear: Maximize Longevity & Minimize Environmental Impact

Video: Target Starts Featuring Clothes Made From Plastic Bottles.

Washing Wisdom: Reducing Microplastic Release and Preserving Fabric Integrity 💧

  • Wash cold and on gentle cycles to reduce fiber shedding.
  • Use a Guppyfriend bag or Cora Ball to trap microfibers.
  • Avoid bleach and fabric softeners that degrade fibers.
  • Turn garments inside out to protect colors and prints.

Drying Do’s and Don’ts: Extend the Life of Your Sustainable Sportswear ☀️

  • Air dry whenever possible—heat from dryers breaks down fibers faster.
  • If using a dryer, choose low heat and remove garments promptly.
  • Avoid ironing synthetic fabrics; instead, use steam or hang to smooth wrinkles.

Repair, Reuse, Recycle: Embracing the Circularity Mindset

  • Patch small holes or tears instead of tossing your gear.
  • Donate or resell gently used items.
  • Participate in brand take-back programs (e.g., Patagonia Worn Wear).
  • Recycle worn-out apparel through textile recycling initiatives.

The Future of Sustainable Sportswear: What’s Next on the Horizon?

Video: Koup T-shirt made from Cinnamon and Recycled Plastic Bottles CES 2021.

Beyond Recycled Plastic: Bio-based & Biodegradable Innovations

The next frontier includes fabrics made from plant-based fibers like Tencel, hemp, and even algae-derived materials. Brands like Pangaia are pioneering bio-based nylon alternatives that are biodegradable and odor-resistant, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

True Circular Economy Models: Closing the Loop for Good

Innovations in garment recycling technology aim to create closed-loop systems where old apparel is fully recycled into new fabric without quality loss. This would drastically reduce waste and resource use.

Conclusion: Your Impact, Our Planet – A Winning Combination 💚

Someone is collecting trash with gloves.

So, what’s the final verdict on recycled plastic athletic apparel? After putting these eco-friendly fabrics and brands through their paces, the Athletic Brands™ team confidently says: this gear is a game-changer for both your performance and the planet.

Positives:

  • Sustainability: Using recycled plastic fibers significantly reduces plastic waste and carbon emissions, helping combat pollution and climate change.
  • Performance: Recycled fabrics deliver excellent moisture-wicking, breathability, stretch, and durability—matching or even surpassing traditional synthetics.
  • Style & Comfort: Brands like Girlfriend Collective and Wolven Threads prove that sustainable can be stylish and comfortable.
  • Innovation: The industry is rapidly evolving with circular economy initiatives and bio-based fiber alternatives, promising even greener options soon.

Negatives:

  • Microplastic Shedding: Synthetic fibers, recycled or not, shed microplastics during washing, which requires mindful care and mitigation strategies.
  • Price Point: Eco-friendly apparel often comes at a premium, though durability and ethical production justify the investment.
  • Greenwashing Risks: Not all recycled claims are equal; consumers must look for certifications and transparency.

Our Recommendation:

If you’re ready to make a positive environmental impact without sacrificing performance or style, invest in recycled plastic athletic apparel from trusted brands like Patagonia, Adidas, Girlfriend Collective, and Nike. Pair your purchase with responsible care to maximize longevity and minimize microplastic pollution.

Remember that every bottle turned into leggings is a small victory against plastic pollution—your choice truly matters. So gear up green, sweat smart, and join us in pushing the boundaries of sustainable athletic wear! 🌍💪

Recommended Links: Dive Deeper into Sustainable Living & Sport!

Shop Top Recycled Plastic Athletic Apparel Brands:

Recommended Books on Sustainable Fashion & Activewear:

  • Fashionopolis: The Price of Fast Fashion and the Future of Clothes by Dana Thomas — Amazon Link
  • Wardrobe Crisis: How We Went From Sunday Best to Fast Fashion by Clare Press — Amazon Link
  • Sustainable Fashion and Textiles: Design Journeys by Kate Fletcher — Amazon Link

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Recycled Athletic Apparel Answered

A pile of soda cans and cans of soda

How does recycled plastic athletic gear impact environmental sustainability?

Recycled plastic athletic apparel reduces reliance on virgin petroleum-based fibers, which lowers greenhouse gas emissions and conserves water and energy during production. It also diverts plastic waste—like bottles and fishing nets—from landfills and oceans, helping reduce pollution. According to Textile Exchange, recycled polyester production emits up to 75% less CO2 than virgin polyester. Choosing recycled gear supports circular economy efforts and encourages brands to innovate sustainable practices.

Where can I buy affordable recycled plastic athletic apparel?

Affordable options exist across brands like Girlfriend Collective, Outdoor Voices, and Tentree, which balance price with sustainability. Online marketplaces like Amazon also offer a wide range of recycled plastic activewear. Look for sales, outlet sections, or secondhand platforms like Poshmark and ThredUp for budget-friendly finds. Remember, investing in durable, eco-friendly gear often saves money long-term by reducing replacements.

Can recycled plastic athletic wear improve performance?

Yes! Recycled polyester fibers perform similarly to virgin polyester in moisture-wicking, breathability, and stretch. Many brands blend recycled fibers with elastane or nylon for enhanced comfort and durability. Our Athletic Brands™ testers found no compromise in performance; in some cases, recycled fabrics offer better odor resistance and durability due to advanced finishing techniques.

Is recycled plastic athletic apparel as durable as traditional materials?

Absolutely. Recycled polyester is highly durable and resistant to pilling and fading. Our team’s experience shows that recycled plastic gear withstands frequent washing and intense workouts without losing shape or performance. Brands like Patagonia and Adidas rigorously test their recycled fabrics to meet or exceed traditional standards.

How is recycled plastic transformed into athletic apparel fabric?

The process begins with collecting post-consumer plastics (mainly PET bottles), which are cleaned, shredded into flakes, melted, and extruded into yarn. This yarn is then spun and woven or knitted into fabric, which is dyed and finished for performance. This transformation is detailed in REPREVE’s recycling process, a leading supplier of recycled fibers.

Which brands use recycled plastic in their athletic clothing?

Leading brands include:

What are the benefits of recycled plastic athletic apparel?

  • Environmental impact reduction: Less plastic waste and lower carbon emissions.
  • High performance: Moisture management, breathability, and durability.
  • Style and comfort: Modern designs with inclusive sizing.
  • Support for circular economy: Encourages recycling and reuse.
  • Ethical production: Many brands emphasize fair labor and transparency.

Does recycled plastic athletic apparel help reduce environmental impact?

Yes. By diverting plastic waste from landfills and oceans and reducing the need for virgin polyester production, recycled plastic apparel significantly lowers environmental harm. It also encourages brands to adopt sustainable supply chains and circular business models.

What innovations are happening in recycled plastic sportswear technology?

Innovations include:

  • Closed-loop recycling: Garments recycled back into new fibers without quality loss.
  • Bio-based alternatives: Plant-derived fibers like Pangaia’s bio-nylon.
  • Ocean plastic recovery programs: Adidas-Parley collaboration.
  • Advanced dyeing and finishing: Low-impact, water-saving processes.
  • Microfiber shedding reduction: New fabric constructions and washing solutions.

Reference Links: Our Sources & Further Reading

Ready to make your next workout wardrobe a force for good? Dive into our Athletic Brand Guides and explore the best sustainable gear today!

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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