When we talk about sustainability in apparel, one word keeps coming up: microplastics. It’s a term that sounds both urgent and vague. It’s often used in sweeping claims about “eco-friendly” versus “synthetic” fabrics. But what does it really mean, especially for activewear brands like ours? At Athlos, we are cognizant of the footprint of the apparel industry. We are breaking down some myths, and bringing our perspective on what microplastics mean in the context of performance apparel.
What are Microplastics? Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, smaller than 5mm, that are released into the environment through the breakdown of larger plastic items. These can come from packaging, cosmetics, tires, and yes, even clothing. In apparel, microplastics are most often released when synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon are washed. With each wash cycle, small fibres can shed and enter our water systems.
Myth 1: All synthetic fabrics are equally harmful Reality:
Not all synthetics are created equal — and not all of them shed the same way. Lower-quality synthetic blends tend to shed more. At Athlos, we work with recycled performance synthetics that are engineered for tighter yarn structures and durability. We believe that choosing the right material — and designing with intention — can significantly reduce environmental impact. Again, this still posses the risk of micro plastics, however the shedding in higher quality synthetic blends is on lower scale and on lower impact.
Myth 2: Natural fabrics are always better Reality:
Natural doesn’t always mean low-impact. Cotton, for instance, is incredibly water- and pesticide-intensive. And “biodegradable” doesn’t always mean it breaks down safely or quickly in landfill conditions. That’s why we use sustainable natural fibres like bamboo and merino, alongside advanced recycled synthetics — to strike a better balance between function, durability, and footprint. We don’t shy away from natural performance fabrics because wherever feasible, say for low to mid-sweat activities, natural fabrics actually do a good enough job of bringing in the necessary performance. For high-sweat activities, where synthetic fabric performance is a must we use recycled synthetics.
What We’re Doing: Responsible Synthetics
Some of our products ,like our Running collection for example, are made using regenerated nylon made from ocean waste, discarded fishing nets, and industrial plastic. It’s part of a closed-loop regeneration system that can be recycled again and again without degrading in quality. Even more importantly, the yarns we work with like ECONYL® are taking real steps to address Microplastics. The creators of ECONYL®, Aquafil, are working with STIIMA CNR (an Italian research institute) to create a standardized method for measuring microfiber shedding. Because as they put it, you can’t reduce what you can’t measure. Their focus is on tightly engineered yarns that shed less.
Myth 3: There’s nothing we can do about microplastics from clothing. In reality, there are things we can do, both, as brands and as users.
At Athlos:
- we use recycled synthetics over virgin ones
- design products to last longer and wash better
- Explore new-generation yarns and treatments that resist shedding
- Avoid fast-fashion fabrics that break down too easily
As a user, you can:
- Use washing filters or bags to trap fibres
- Wash less often: our garments are treated for odour control and quick drying
- Air dry instead of machine drying, to protect fibres and extend garment life
So, What’s the Way Forward?
There’s no silver bullet, but there is a more informed path. We don’t believe in greenwashing or guilt-based narratives. Performance apparel has technical demands and sometimes, synthetic materials are part of the solution. Our role is to make those decisions more consciously, back them with science, and keep you informed every step of the way.
Final Word
Microplastics are a real concern, but so is the innovation driving change. Through choices like ECONYL®, through partnerships grounded in transparency and research, and through products built to last and perform, we’re working to reduce harm without compromising what you need from your gear. We're not perfect. But we're progressing — one stitch, one step, one mile at a time.
