Top Activewear Trends to Watch in 2023: Sustainability

The activewear industry has seen significant growth in recent years due to an increase in health and fitness awareness among consumers. As the activewear industry continues to grow and evolve, sustainability is becoming increasingly important for consumers and businesses alike. In this post, we will explore the top activewear trends to watch for in 2023 with a focus on sustainability. We'll also discuss the importance of incorporating these trends into your activewear collection as consumers are more now more likely to be searching for brands that are environmentally responsible.
Importance of Sustainability in the Activewear Industry
Sustainability has become a top priority for many consumers, and the activewear industry is no exception. With the fashion industry being the second-largest polluter globally, consumers are increasingly looking for eco-friendly alternatives. According to a recent study, over 50% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products. Incorporating sustainability into your activewear line can help you attract and retain customers while reducing your environmental footprint. That’s huge!
Benefits of Using Eco-Friendly Materials in Activewear
So, what exactly are eco-friendly materials? Good question. They are materials that have been produced with minimal environmental impact. These materials are usually organic or recycled, and they offer several benefits. For instance, they reduce the amount of waste produced by the fashion industry, conserve natural resources, and reduce pollution. Some popular eco-friendly materials used in activewear include organic cotton, recycled polyester, and bamboo. By incorporating these materials into your activewear collection, you can create a positive impact on the environment while providing your customers with sustainable and durable activewear.
Impact of Sustainability on Consumer Buying Behavior
Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it's become a significant factor in consumer buying behavior. In fact, according to a new study, 79% of consumers consider sustainability an essential factor when making a purchase. Consumers are willing to pay more for products that align with their values, and sustainable activewear is no exception.
Sustainable Fabrics
Sustainable fabrics are becoming more and more popular in the fashion industry because of their minimal environmental impact and appeal to conscious consumers who prioritize eco-friendliness. Sustainable fabrics are made with minimal environmental impact, using renewable resources, and minimizing waste. Some examples of sustainable fabrics include recycled polyester, organic cotton, and Tencel, hemp, bamboo, and linen.
Recycled Polyester: made from recycled plastic bottles and other waste materials.
Organic Cotton: produced without the use of harmful pesticides and promotes soil health.
Tencel: also known as lyocell, is made from wood pulp and is a renewable resource. Its closed-loop production process minimizes waste and reduces the environmental impact.
Hemp: is a durable and biodegradable fabric that requires less water and pesticides than conventional cotton.
Bamboo: a fast-growing and renewable resource that requires less water and chemicals to produce than other fabrics.
Linen: made from flax plant fibers and is biodegradable, durable, and requires less water and pesticides than cotton.
Innovative Sustainable Fabrics
Innovative Sustainable Fabrics like mushroom leather, pineapple fiber, and algae-based textiles are also emerging in the fashion industry.
Mushroom leather: made from mushroom mycelium and is a sustainable and cruelty-free alternative to animal leather.
Pineapple fiber: also known as Piñatex, is made from pineapple leaves and is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to leather.
Algae-based textiles: made from algae and are a renewable resource that has the potential to reduce water pollution.
By using sustainable fabrics in your activewear collection, you can reduce your environmental impact and appeal to conscious consumers who prioritize eco-friendliness. Plus, sustainable fabrics are often high-quality and durable, making them a great investment for your business.
Communicating Sustainability to Consumers
Communicating the sustainability aspect of your activewear collection is critical to success. Be transparent about the materials you use and how they are sourced. Showcase your eco-friendly designs and manufacturing processes on your website and social media platforms. Educate your customers about the importance of sustainability in activewear and highlight the benefits of choosing environmentally responsible products.
Cost-Effective Sustainable Activewear
Incorporating sustainable materials into your activewear collection can be cost-effective. You can reduce costs by using recycled materials, choosing sustainable fabrications, and working with suppliers who specialize in eco-friendly materials. It's also essential to consider the long-term benefits of sustainability, such as increased customer loyalty and brand reputation.
The Future of Sustainable Activewear
As consumers become more environmentally conscious, sustainable activewear will continue to be a top trend in the industry. Businesses that prioritize sustainability and incorporate eco-friendly materials into their collections will be at a competitive advantage. The future of sustainable activewear is bright, and there are many opportunities for businesses to innovate and make a positive impact on the environment.
ApparelKit + Sustainability
At ApparelKit, we specialize in helping businesses launch their activewear apparel collections. We understand the importance of sustainability in the industry and offer a range of eco-friendly materials and fabrications for your collection. Our team can help you navigate the process of incorporating sustainable materials into your designs and manufacture your products with environmental responsibility in mind. Our team of experts can help you develop a sustainable sourcing strategy, choosing the best eco-friendly materials and manufacturing methods that fit your budget and production needs. We can also provide you with access to our network of ethical suppliers, helping to ensure that your materials are both sustainable and responsibly sourced.
As you launch your activewear collection, it's essential to stay on top of the latest trends in the industry. Contact us today to discuss how you can incorporate eco-friendly materials into your designs to meet the demands of your customers.