Australian sustainable activewear brands

New year, same old you but with better activewear. That’s the kind of new year’s resolution I can get behind. Australia has so many independent activewear brands using all kinds of materials to make their products, from merino and cotton to recycled PET bottles. These brands are all mindful of sustainability and ethical production, and they all look great too—which helps incentivise that work out you might be dreading.

Amble Outdoors

Made in Taiwan, China and India

Female-owned Melbourne brand Amble Outdoors (formerly Team Timbuktu) use recycled plastics to make their activewear. They also have you covered for all kinds of weather with their range of raincoats, plus they’ll plant a tree for every order.

Captain Robbo

Made in Melbourne

These leggings are screen printed in the brand’s Collingwood workshop and they’re perfect for working out or wearing under dresses. There’s a huge range of colours and you can choose from merino wool or cotton. I’ve got a cotton pair and they’re my go-to yoga pants.

Life Apparel Co.

Made in Australia, China and Hong Kong

Each piece by Life Apparel Co. features art by an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander artist, so you’ll not only look great, but also be supporting First Nations people. Their range is for women, men and kids so there’s something for the whole family.

DK Active

Made in Brisbane

They’re one of the few brands making 100% of their products in Brisbane, but there’s so much more to love about DK Active. Their products are inclusive, with ranges for men and women, plus a maternity range and a ‘curve’ collection. They’re a go-to for activewear that is both stylish and eco-friendly.

Active Truth

Made in Brisbane

Also based in Brisbane, these guys are maxing out on the inclusive scale with a size range from XS to 3XL. Their bathers are also super flattering and would be perfect for doing laps or lounging on the beach.

Nimble Activewear

Made in Taiwan

Made from post-consumer recycled plastics, Nimble Activewear is a women’s activewear brand founded by two high school friends. The brand has a running club, they host beach clean ups, and they hold events in their stores.

BAY Active

Made in Melbourne and Sydney

Using organic cotton and surplus fabrics, the team at BAY Active are making some of the most comfortable and functional activewear around. Their fabrics are dyed in Melbourne before being stitched in Sydney and worn by ladies across the country. Check out their guide for brands they love too, there are some awesome recommendations in there.

Yogi Peace Club

Made in China

Dreamy patterns and purposeful designs are behind every item from Yogi Peace Club. Based at Bells Beach in Victoria, the brand is committed to sustainable production and they plant trees for every yoga mat sold. I recently bought one of their mats for my mum and she loves it.

Etiko

Made in India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka

If it’s certifications you’re after, then look no further. Etiko is a certified fair trade B Corporation and award-winning family-owned brand. They’re known for their commitment to ethical production and their range of affordable basics. They’re not strictly speaking an activewear brand, but their range of tees and hoodies are great for pairing with your favourite pair of shorts or leggings.

Cover image by @nimbleactivewear