Breathable, durable, windproof and waterproof: functional clothing for outdoor activities, sports and fitness must adapt to different uses and environmental conditions. What chemicals make possible is often difficult to reconcile with sustainability. Transformative manufacturers are therefore developing eco-fair alternatives to synthetics and synthetic fibers such as polyester that meet similar technical characteristics but have a positive impact for users AND the environment.

Not only when it comes to clothing, but also when it comes to sporting goods and equipment of all kinds, longevity and recyclability of the products are important in addition to bio-based and biodegradable materials. The aim is to maximally extend usage and material cycles. Repair and reuse programs (including, for example, backpacks, devices, balls or other equipment), but also rental concepts for short-term events such as sporting events contribute to this.

The industry’s pioneers drive sustainability forward by promoting fair wages and ecologically sound working conditions along the value chain, implementing the rules of sustainable design, pursuing technology development and reducing the climate impact of production processes on the way to climate-neutral production. In this segment, brand trust plays a major role. Authentic lifestyle campaigns in the spirit of “Less is More” sensitize consumers to resource-saving consumption and a focus on long-lasting, durable products.

The industry includes, for example, the production of sports equipment, sporting goods and functional clothing.