New sustainable technologies are increasingly gaining traction in the industry, with each iteration improving in quality and popularity. Here’s an overview of some innovative sustainable materials making waves in the sportswear sector.

Mylo is a leather alternative containing mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms, used by brands like Adidas and Lululemon in select clothing and footwear. In the lab, mycelium is processed into sheets of soft, biomaterial ready for texturing and finishing. Although Mylo is not yet entirely plastic-free, it aims to become fully synthetic-free soon. Adidas introduced Mylo in a version of their iconic Stan Smith sneakers, and Lululemon used it in yoga mats and bags. Mylo is durable and abrasion-resistant, closely mimicking leather without animal products, but may wear more quickly than leather in high-impact uses.

Circulose is another sustainable material, made from discarded textiles through a process that uses renewable energy. Cotton is extracted from old fabrics and transformed into a type of viscose similar to silk. Launched in 2020 by H&M, Circulose is now used by brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Zara, and Levi’s. While not yet adopted in sportswear, Circulose’s water efficiency and recyclability make it an attractive choice, although it remains pricier than conventional cotton due to the recycling process.

Recycled Polyester is perhaps the most widely used sustainable material in sportswear, created from post-consumer plastic bottles or discarded polyester items. The plastic is melted and woven into fabric with excellent breathability, durability, and moisture-wicking properties. Though highly energy-efficient to produce, recycled polyester still sheds microplastics, posing an ongoing environmental challenge.

PHB-based leather (Polyhydroxybutyrate) is a newer, biodegradable leather alternative derived from microorganisms that convert oxygen and carbon into PHB. This process creates a leather-like material, with Nike currently exploring its use in upcoming collections. PHB leather is cruelty-free, biodegradable, and lowers carbon emissions. However, its limited availability and higher production costs mean it’s not yet widely accessible or affordable.

A Plastic Planet is an organization working toward a plastic-free world, aiming to reduce plastic waste by promoting sustainable alternatives. They partnered with SailGP to produce “the world’s first plastic-free technical sportswear” line, made entirely from natural fibers. Survey results showed that 72% of participants would choose plastic-free sportswear if it were available.

Several brands are leading sustainability efforts, including Patagonia, which offers a repair service to encourage customers to extend the life of their items, supporting a circular economy. Patagonia also promotes buying second-hand and ensures its supply chain adheres to environmental and fair-trade standards.

Adidas launched the ‘Green Company’ program in 2008, which has reduced carbon emissions by 55%, water use by 48%, waste by 50%, and paper consumption by 80% as of 2020.

Packaging is also a key focus, as brands like ASOS, Lush, Zara, and Calvin Klein transition to eco-friendly options. ASOS has reduced its packaging by 40% since 2019, using appropriately sized packaging to cut carbon emissions by 27%, and moved return labels online. Zara’s goal is to achieve landfill-free packaging by 2025.

Biodegradable packing peanuts are also on the rise, providing sustainable protection for shipped items. Many major brands are adopting these alternatives to help reduce their carbon footprints.