Workout Shorts – 7 Sustainable Pairs

With Plus Sizes Too!

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I decided to embark on a new fitness regime this past summer! Five days a week I was planking and squatting to my heart’s content. I’ve been working out for years, so I thought I had my perfect workout outfit organised—any type of leggings and a sports bra. However, I was wrong! I’ve come to the conclusion that workout shorts are the way to go. Especially when exercising at home or at the gym. I find leggings can’t cope with the heat produced after five minutes of running on the spot.

I’d been on the lookout for a pair of shorts that are squat proof ie totally opaque and also don’t ride up too high on the leg. I don’t want to be lying on the ground with my legs in the air showing everything off. Either in the gym or at home. They also need to be sustainable. Made from either recycled fabric or something more natural, bamboo or organic cotton for example. And ethical, with fair conditions for the people who are in the supply chain.

I finally found my perfect pair, see the first image below. They are basically a short version of the leggings I used to wear. I’ve also picked six other pairs that would also fit the bill, many of which include a bigger size range which is brilliant and much called for.

 Workout Shorts – 7 Brands

Bamboo Clothing

These are my go-to workout shorts! They sit high on the waist and come about halfway down the thigh. It’s a thick fabric so I feel supported while working out and they stay opaque even when bending over. The fabric consists of bamboo viscose, organic cotton and elastane. BAM often have them in a variety of colours and patterns to choose from however I went for the classic black. The sizes are between 8 and 16 and they are a bargain at £32.

Girlfriend Collective

I love how bright these shorts are. Who doesn’t want to work out in a pair of marigold shorts?! They are a shorter style, produced with recycled polyester and elastane. Recycled polyester is made from post-consumer bottles, fishing nets and other sea waste. I’ve got a pair of leggings from Girlfriend Collective, they last for years, and I think they might actually be indestructible! The shorts come in sizes up to waist 80cm with other colours available on their US website. For more recycled polyester, try recycled fleece favourites.

Organic Basics

I love organic basics for tees, leggings, workout bras and now shorts too. The shorts are similar to the leggings but obviously a lot shorter! This burgundy colour is really pretty for autumn and winter. I’d recommend the sports bra in the image too, I have the same one in dusty blue and have been meaning to get another colour for ages. The shorts are available up to a waist 90cm.

Allbirds

I’ve only recently noticed that Allbirds have branched into clothing alongside their footwear. These shorts are made using merino wool like many of the shoes are. Combined with recycled nylon, nylon and elastane these shorts look breathable and great for workouts as well as a hike in the summer. The sizing is also impressive going up to XXXL which is around a 100cm waist. They also feature a drawstring and pockets and come in some really pretty colours.

Everlane

Everlane’s shorts are made from 58%recycled nylon and the rest in elastane for the ultimate stretchy bike short. They’d be great for lunges and squats at the gym too though! Everlane is another brand including more inclusive sizing with the shorts going up to an XXL which is around 100cm waist size. Everlane know the factories that make their clothes, with all progressive in terms of ethical production. They are available in various other colours too.

Pangaia

These shorts are cute enough to wear before and after your workout too. And perfect for anyone who doesn’t like their shorts too tight. And they are treated with peppermint oil which gives an antibacterial effect. Pangaia produces the shorts using organic cotton and a recycled cotton blend and they come with a digital passport so you can see where they are made. They come in sizes UK8 to 20.

Tala

Have you considered a skort? It’s a pair of shorts with a skirt over the top. There’s still the freedom to move but doesn’t show as much of the body. Also it gives the glamour of a tennis outfit without actually having to be good at raquet sports. This one from Tala is made from 76% recycled nylon and lycra. I’m tempted to buy them in all colours!

Fancy more reading? What about eco workout leggings?

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All images of the workout shorts belong to the brands mentioned.