Activewear made from natural fibres is gaining traction as consumers move away from synthetic materials. The shift represents a change in what people expect from workout clothing, prioritizing comfort and environmental impact over high-performance synthetics.
The shift from synthetics to natural fabrics
For years, the standard for gym wear was skin-tight, high-shine Lycra. Now, many people are choosing softer, looser silhouettes made from cotton, bamboo, hemp, and merino wool. Activewear has become an extension of the everyday wardrobe, with pieces designed to work for a coffee run or an office meeting just as well as a Pilates class.
There is also growing interest in the composition of workout gear. Conventional sportswear often relies on synthetic fibres like polyester and nylon, which shed microplastics during washing. As conversations about sustainability expand, more individuals are seeking out natural alternatives.
Merino wool is a popular choice. It is naturally breathable, temperature-regulating, and odour-resistant. Bamboo fabrics serve a similar purpose, offering lightweight absorbency that wicks moisture away from the skin during intense activities.
Leading brands adopting natural fibres
Several Australian and New Zealand labels are leading this movement. Pinky and Kamal offers hero pieces made from butter-soft bamboo and organic cotton. The label provides timeless styles, such as the Yin Flare yoga pants and ribbed tanks that draw on 90s aesthetics.
Boody focuses on sustainability in its production processes. The label uses rainwater to grow its organic bamboo and minimizes fabric waste. Since 2016, it has produced affordable and comfortable pieces aimed at longevity.
Sydney-based Estroni utilizes 95 per cent Australian superfine merino. This material is known for its odour-resisting and moisture-wicking properties. The label offers racerback sports bras, yoga pants, and bike shorts intended for wear beyond the gym.
Hailing from New Zealand, Icebreaker specializes in lightweight merino wool layers. Its activewear range includes breezy running shorts, featherlight T-shirts, and seamless sports bras. The fabrics are often blended with TENCEL™ Lyocell and organic cotton to withstand high-intensity movement.
Byron Bay-based Nagnata has been creating activewear since 2017 with a focus on comfort and style. The brand opposes the fast-fashion trend cycle with its “movements not seasons” mantra. Nagnata predominantly uses wool certified by Textile Exchange and organic cotton.
Hara the Label combines activewear with underwear. The brand uses organic, breathable bamboo for one-shoulder tops and sports bras in earthy tones. It employs non-toxic dyes and reuses offcuts to minimize textile waste.
It is increasingly common to see athletes in breathable fabrics that don’t rely on synthetic treatments for performance. For many, the priority has shifted from chasing the latest trend to finding gear that feels good and aligns with a more sustainable lifestyle. Fashion firms reveal hiring secrets for new talent.
