Fast fashion has become a serious problem for our planet. With the rise of consumerism and the demand for cheap clothing, the fashion industry has become one of the largest polluters in the world. Sports apparel is no exception, with many garments made of synthetic materials like polyester and nylon that don't decompose and are often produced under exploitative labor conditions in some countries.
There are solutions we can adopt to make our shopping decisions more sustainable.
One solution is to invest in high-quality, durable clothing that can last a lifetime, even if it comes with a higher price tag. While it may seem counterintuitive to spend more money upfront, over time the cost per use becomes substantially lower than something that will wear out and need to be replaced. This can be especially relevant when it comes to sports apparel, where high-performance materials and construction are essential for longevity.
Another useful tool in making sustainable purchasing decisions is to consider the "cost per use" metric. This involves calculating the cost of a garment and dividing it by the number of times it will be worn. By factoring in the lifespan of the item, we can make more informed decisions about what we buy and ensure we are getting the most out of our purchases.
That $20 shirt that you wear once a week and throw away after a year has the same cost per use as a $100 shirt worn once a week for 5 years. Higher quality materials last much longer and aren't subject to the rapid wear and tear of cheaply made products which basically makes them disposable.
How long do you actually plan on keeping clothes that you've purchased?
If you're anything like me, I wouldn't mind them lasting a lifetime, especially after frequenting the gym daily for a decade it becomes a burden constantly replacing clothes. The joke's on the consumer when you sign up for the "subscription" called fast fashion that keeps you on the hook for replacing your clothes on a regular basis.
In addition to these individual actions, we can also encourage sports apparel companies to make more sustainable choices. Consumers can demand better labor practices, transparency in supply chains, and the use of sustainable materials. By supporting companies that prioritize sustainability, we can drive change in the industry and reduce the impact of fast fashion on the environment and on people's lives.
Investing in high-quality purchases that are made to last can not only benefit the environment but also our wallets. By choosing to buy products that are ethically made and of superior quality, we can reduce our impact on the planet and promote a more sustainable future. So, next time you're in the market for new sports apparel, consider the long-term benefits of making a high-quality purchase, and don't forget to calculate the cost per use to make a more informed decision.
And now you have a much better excuse to invest in some luxury sportswear and to head over to Shop JRZY for our newest stlyes!
