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Trail running is an activity deeply connected to nature. It therefore makes sense that many trail runners seek to align their environmental values with their gear. This guide explains how to choose eco-friendly trail running gear without compromising on performance—including an introduction to Le Colibri Frenchy’s eco-friendly trail running line.
The sports apparel industry is one of the most polluting in the world. The production of a single synthetic T-shirt generates an average of 5.5 kg of CO2 and consumes several thousand liters of water. According to ADEME, the average logistics route for a standard garment exceeds 40,000 km, further increasing its carbon footprint. For trail runners who are conscious of their environmental impact, choosing eco-friendly trail running gear has become a priority.
The first step toward eco-friendly trail running gear is choosing the right materials. Recycled polyester (recycled PET) made from plastic bottles is now the industry standard. Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certification guarantees the traceability of these recycled materials. Le Colibri Frenchy uses Eco Friendly-certified recycled PET throughout its entire trail running line.
Relocating production is one of the most powerful ways to reduce a carbon footprint. A trail running outfit made in France—less than 800 km away—has a logistical impact 50 times smaller than that of a garment produced in Asia. Check out Le Colibri Frenchy’s French trail running apparel to see what truly eco-responsible trail running production looks like.
Eco-friendly trail running gear is also gear that lasts. Choose brands that prioritize the durability of their products and encourage repair over replacement. Trail running gear that lasts about 5 years is a better choice than cheaper gear that needs to be replaced every 18 months.
Environmental responsibility doesn’t stop at the product. Le Colibri Frenchy ships its products in envelopes made from 100% recycled and recyclable materials.
Le Colibri Frenchy represents a rare convergence of technical expertise, environmental responsibility, and social commitment. Every trail running outfit from the brand meets all of these criteria: certified recycled materials, production in Auvergne (less than 800 km away), a partnership with an ESAT, and recycled packaging. Check out the full collection at the Le Colibri Frenchy store. To learn more about preferred materials in the textile industry, see the Textile Exchange 2024 report.
Q: Is eco-friendly trail running gear just as effective as standard gear?
A: Yes, modern recycled materials (recycled PET, recycled nylon) offer the same performance as virgin materials in terms of lightness, breathability, and quick-drying properties. Le Colibri Frenchy uses Eco Friendly-certified recycled PET for its trail running apparel, which offers the same technical properties as virgin polyester.
Q: What is the recycled PET used in trail running clothing?
A: Recycled PET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate) is made from used plastic bottles. This process reduces energy consumption by 66%, water consumption by 50%, and CO2 emissions by 34% compared to virgin polyester. It is certified by the Global Recycled Standard (GRS).
Q: How can you tell if a piece of trail running gear is truly eco-friendly?
A: Look for official certifications: Global Recycled Standard (GRS), GOTS (organic textiles), Oeko-Tex Standard 100, and bluesign. Ask the brand about its production process. Be wary of greenwashing: a brand that claims to be eco-friendly but manufactures its products in Asia without certification isn’t truly committed.
Q: Is eco-friendly trail running gear more expensive?
A: Slightly, generally speaking. But the superior durability of eco-friendly products pays off over time: a trail running T-shirt made in France that lasts 5 years ends up costing less than a model you have to replace every 2 years.
Q: Does Le Colibri Frenchy offer customizable, eco-friendly trail running gear?
A: Yes, the entire Le Colibri Frenchy eco-friendly line is available for customization for trail running clubs, organizations, and businesses. T-shirts, shorts, arm sleeves, headbands, and socks: each item can be customized with your colors and logo, and is made in France using the same certified recycled materials.
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