Two new collections being launched in the USA from Champion Athleticwear – Natural State Reverse Weave and Rally Pro Earth footwear – reflect the company’s current commitment to sustainability.

The Natural State range is based on recycled polyester fibres, celebrating the brand’s Reverse Weave fabrics in their natural, raw state. The collection uses minimally processed and unbleached fabrics, along with all-natural dyes derived from flowers, roots and plants. It is characterised by natural, muted tones, raw edges and logos that also include recycled fibres, in t-shirts, hoodies, crew-neck sweatshirts, joggers and shorts.

With the launch of the Rally Pro Earth, Champion’s Rally Pro sneaker gets a refresh using more earth-friendly materials. This is Champion’s first sneaker assembled with 25-45% upcycled and 50-65% recycled materials, with percentages varying by shoe colour. The Rally Pro Earth sneaker, which is being launched with the brand’s licensee, BBC International, also contains an upcycled EVA rubber outsole and rubber logo sole for traction.

“The launch of Natural State and Rally Pro Earth are only the beginning of what we have in the works,” says Champion marketing director David Robertson. “The brand has a strong foundation on which to build its sustainability programme – all products can be washed in cold water, which reduces energy and water usage, and our Powerblend sweats are already made with a portion of recycled polyester fibres. I’m very proud of the fact that by 2025, as part of the HanesBrands family, Champion will use 100% recycled polyester and 100% sustainable cotton in all of its apparel, achieve zero waste across operations and reduce the absolute weight of packaging materials used for products by 25%.”

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