Plastic-Free Activewear: Why icebreaker’s Natural Fibres Outperform Synthetics

July, 2025 | icebreaker

Discover how icebreaker’s 100% natural materials reduce microplastic pollution while keeping you comfortable. Join the #MoveToNatural movement and ditch synthetic activewear for good.

The Problem with Synthetic Activewear

Most performance wear is made from petroleum-based plastics (polyester, nylon, spandex). Here’s the impact:

● Microplastic Pollution: A single synthetic garment sheds 1,900 microfibres per wash, contaminating oceans.
● Non-Biodegradable: Takes 200+ years to decompose in landfills.

"Switching to merino wool reduced my laundry by 50%—and my gym clothes no longer smell like a locker room." – Liam, icebreaker loyalty member

Nature’s Answer: Plastic-Free Performance

icebreaker’s 100% natural fibres provide a high-performance alternative:

● Merino Wool: Naturally regulates temperature, resists odours, and biodegrades in just 1–5 years.
● TENCEL™ Lyocell: Made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, uses 65% less water than cotton.
● Plant-Based Dyes: Coloured with natural pigments (no toxic chemicals).

Did You Know?
● 97.56% of fabrics in our 2024 collection are plastic-free
● 80.75% of icebreaker fibre breakdown usage in 2024
● Goal:100% by 2025—no compromises on performance.

How icebreaker’s Growers Lead the Change

Our ZQ-certified merino farms in New Zealand follow regenerative practices:

Animal Welfare: Sheep roam freely—no mulesing, ever.

Water Conservation: Drought-resistant farming techniques.

Rotational Grazing: Improves soil health and captures carbon.

"Healthy sheep mean better wool—and a healthier planet. Happy sheep, happy wool." – Philip and Anne Todhunter, Lake Heron Station

3 Ways to Make a Difference Today

1.Wash Less, Wear More: Merino stays fresh for 7+ days (saving water & energy).
2.Replace, Don’t Repair: Use our Returns guides.
3.Earn points and rewards: Be part of the change, move to natural.