Activewear has seamlessly woven itself into the fabric of everyday fashion, providing a blend of comfort, functionality, and style suited to a variety of activities.
With an array of brands available, consumers are often met with the challenge of identifying which label best aligns with their lifestyle and fitness aspirations.
The market is bustling with brands like Vuori, a notable player in the athletic clothing sphere. But there are also many alternatives to this brand!
In today’s selection, we’ll explore 9 companies that offer great choices for those in search of quality activewear.
From PrAna’s commitment to environmental consciousness to Lululemon’s market stronghold, and Under Armour’s reputation for resilient, cost-effective gear, there’s a myriad of options to suit every preference, be it for calm yoga sessions or vigorous outdoor pursuits.
Contents:
- 1. Lululemon
- 2. prAna
- 3. Tentree
- 4. Under Armour
- 5. Rhone
- 6. Nike
- 7. Finisterre
- 8. Passenger Clothing
- 9. ASICS
1. Lululemon
Image: Lululemon official website
Lululemon Athletica, established by Chip Wilson in 1998, is a top-tier athletic and lifestyle apparel company, with its roots in Vancouver, Canada.
The brand gained traction with its high-quality yoga wear but has since broadened its range to include a diverse collection of lifestyle garments, functional accessories, and personal care products. Highly regarded for its premium leggings, Lululemon has cultivated a strong following within the yoga community and beyond.
Product Range:
- Yoga wear
- Lifestyle apparel
- Accessories
- Personal care items
Innovation is at the core of Lululemon’s philosophy, underscored by its dedicated research facility, Whitespace. The brand operates a substantial retail network exceeding 600 stores globally, complemented by its e-commerce platform.
The company has garnered attention for its specialized fabrics, including those offering compression and moisture management features. Its offerings are typically positioned at the premium end of the market in terms of pricing.
Don’t miss: 11 Sustainable Outdoor Clothing Brands for Your Adventures
2. prAna
Image: prAna official website
Based in the United States and operating under the umbrella of Columbia Sportswear, prAna stands out as an environmentally-conscious label catering to those who enjoy outdoor adventures and activities like yoga and trekking.
Their product line reflects a commitment to both functional design and sustainable fashion, utilizing materials such as organically grown cotton and recycled textiles.
The brand’s clothing range is both versatile and aesthetically pleasing, exemplified by prAna’s hallmark pieces such as the stretchable and robust Zion and Brion pants. Moreover, prAna’s collection extends to include an assortment of jackets, tops, and shirts, optimized for ease of movement and layering, suitable for a variety of outdoor pursuits.
With a definitive focus on minimizing its ecological footprint, prAna has instituted the Responsible Packaging Movement, a campaign to overhaul packaging materials to more eco-friendly options. Their collaboration with like-minded enterprises further underscores prAna’s dedication to promoting environmental stewardship.
For those in pursuit of apparel that meets the demands of an active lifestyle while also aligning with green values, prAna presents a compelling choice.
Read also: 9 Brands like prAna (Top Alternatives)
3. Tentree
Image: Tentree official website
Founded in Canada in 2012, Tentree stands at the forefront of sustainable fashion. The company dedicates itself to ethical labor practices, ensuring workers receive fair wages and opportunities across the board.
- Materials and Production: Tentree’s commitment to the planet is evident in its choice of materials, prioritizing organic and recycled fabrics to reduce wastewater and emissions.
- Ethical Standards: Regular audits of their manufacturing sites reinforce the company’s dedication to ethical labor, backed by its recognition as a Sustainable B Corporation and its climate-neutral certification.
- Environmental Impact: Through their eco-friendly initiatives, the company has achieved the monumental milestone of planting over 100 million trees.
- Product Line: Sustainable clothing items such as jackets and activewear comprise their catalog, featuring eco-conscious materials like organic cotton, REPREVE® recycled polyester, and TENCEL™ lyocell.
Tentree consistently seeks innovative techniques and materials, including recycled nylon and natural dye processes, to bolster its environmentally responsible catalog.
4. Under Armour
Image: Under Armour official website
Established in 1996, in Washington, D.C., and headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, Under Armour started with a focus on simple T-shirt designs and has grown to offer a diversified portfolio featuring advanced materials engineered for durability and performance across various climates.
Affordability is a hallmark of their products even as they embrace eco-friendly practices.
- Product Range: Includes outdoor apparel, footwear, and sports gear for activities like football, basketball, and golf. Many products are designed with environmental considerations.
- Environmental Efforts: Reduced reliance on elastane, and incorporated recycled materials into clothing to lessen waste impact.
Their distinction lies in providing a comprehensive assortment of sports equipment and clothing that balances cost-effectiveness with sustainability.
Read next: 9 American Sneaker Brands for Running and Casual Wear
5. Rhone
Image: Rhone’s official website
Originating from New Canaan, Connecticut, Rhone Apparel was established in 2014 with a commitment to providing athletic and sportswear for men who lead vigorous lives. The brand places a premium on sustainability by integrating materials like recycled polyester and organic cotton with functional designs for enhanced durability.
Rhone’s offerings fall into a higher price bracket, reflecting their use of quality materials and construction designed to outlive average sportswear. Their products sometimes include embroidered motivational messages, aligning with the brand’s focus on active living.
Achievements for Rhone have been notable, with a swift acceleration in their market presence since inception. Their ethos not only highlights fitness but also environmental consciousness through their choice of eco-friendly textiles.
6. Nike
Image: woman lacing up a Nike running shoe
Nike, a global powerhouse based in the U.S., is recognized for its extensive array of athletic footwear, apparel, and sports accessories. The enterprise was initially founded as Blue Ribbon Sports in 1964 and underwent a branding transformation to Nike, Inc. by 1971, drawing inspiration for its name from the Greek deity signifying triumph.
- Global Presence: Nike’s influence spans worldwide, often highlighted through marketing initiatives with renowned athletes and sports teams.
- Product Portfolio:
- Athletic shoes
- Performance wear
- Sport-specific garments
- Diverse accessories
- Price Range: Products are generally positioned at a premium price point.
- Subsidiaries: Includes notable brands like Converse and Air Jordan.
Don’t miss: Nike vs Adidas Running Shoes: Which Brand to Choose?
7. Finisterre
Image: Finisterre official website
Finisterre is a British brand established in 2003, specializing in high-quality adventure clothing. Their commitment to sustainability is reflected through their use of organic and recycled materials while ensuring their manufacturing processes meet ethical standards.
- Eco-Conscious Fabric Choices: Using organic cotton and recycled polyester for their apparel.
- Innovative Jacket Technology: Jackets with fluorocarbon-free durable water-repellent (DWR) finish.
- Community and Education Initiatives:
- Conducting workshops on sustainable living.
- Collaborating with environmental groups such as Surfers Against Sewage.
They offer a diverse selection of products suited for outdoor activities, ranging from thermal base layers and cozy fleece to water-resistant outerwear and accessories.
Finisterre stands out as a reliable source of sustainable outdoor wear, poised as an excellent alternative to brands like Vuori for those prioritizing longevity and environmentally friendly practices.
Read also: 8 Outdoor Brands like Finisterre that You’ll Love
8. Passenger Clothing
Image: Passenger Clothing’s official website
Founded in the UK‘s New Forest in 2013, Passenger Clothing has become a prominent name among those passionate about nature. This fashion brand is recognized for its commitment to environmental conservation, demonstrated by its initiative to plant a tree with each purchase.
Their product line is primarily designed for those who enjoy hiking, backpacking, or simply embracing an active urban life. The garments are not only stylish and contemporary but also crafted to provide comfort and enhance outdoor experiences.
Don’t miss: 9 Brands like Passenger Clothing: Our Top Alternatives
9. ASICS
Image: runner wearing Asics Cumulus running shoes
ASICS, a distinguished Japanese label celebrated for its athletic footwear and apparel, has seen its popularity soar across North America and Europe since its foundation mid-20th century. Initially a creator of basketball footwear, ASICS broadened its horizons to outdoor athletic gear starting in the late 1970s.
The brand’s name is derived from the Latin adage “Anima Sana In Corpore Sano,” signifying the ethos of fostering durability in both physical and mental wellness through their products.
The company boasts extensive research facilities, verifying the durability and performance of its offerings. ASICS footwear is lauded for its superior shock absorption, grip technology for wet conditions, and designs that emphasize equilibrium and ease of wear.
Regarding the pricing spectrum for ASICS running footwear, they are available from affordable choices at approximately $100 to premium models ranging between $150 and $230. Additionally, ASICS presents a diverse collection of garments for a breadth of outdoor sports and disciplines.
To learn how we use your data when you comment, read our Privacy Policy.