Best Eco-Friendly Fabrics for Men’s Clothing

A breakdown of materials like organic cotton, hemp, and recycled fibers

Sustainable fashion is no longer a niche—it's the future. As more people reject fast fashion and embrace ethical clothing, the choice of fabric plays a huge role in making fashion more planet-friendly. For men’s clothing, especially in categories like casualwear and everyday basics, using eco-friendly materials means less waste, fewer chemicals, and better quality garments that last.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the best eco-friendly fabrics you should look for when shopping for sustainable men’s clothing:

 

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1. Organic Cotton

Organic cotton is one of the most widely used sustainable fabrics in the fashion industry. Unlike conventional cotton, it’s grown without harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilizers, making it safer for the environment, farmers, and your skin.

Why it’s great:

• Uses up to 91% less water than conventional cotton

• Biodegradable and breathable

• Gentle on sensitive skin

• Ideal for t-shirts, hoodies, and basics

Brands like Outsider use organic cotton in their collections, offering both comfort and sustainability in every piece.

 

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2. Hemp

Hemp is one of the oldest and most sustainable fibers used in clothing. It requires very little water, grows quickly without pesticides, and even improves soil health.

Why it’s great:

• Incredibly durable (gets softer with time)

• Naturally resistant to mold and UV light

• One of the lowest-impact crops

• Great for jackets, pants, and utility-style pieces

Hemp adds a natural, rugged texture that fits well with modern men’s style, especially for layering pieces and minimalist wardrobes.

 

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3. Recycled Fibers (Recycled Cotton, Recycled Polyester)

Recycled materials are a powerful tool for reducing waste. Recycled cotton saves water and energy, while recycled polyester (often made from plastic bottles) keeps plastic out of landfills and oceans.

Why it’s great:

• Reduces the need for virgin materials

• Saves energy and water

• Helps tackle plastic waste

• Perfect for outerwear, tees, and sweatshirts

Recycled blends are increasingly used by eco-conscious brands, providing performance and style without the footprint.

 

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4. TENCEL™ (Lyocell)

TENCEL™ is a semi-synthetic fiber made from sustainably harvested wood pulp, usually from eucalyptus trees. The production process is closed-loop, meaning 99% of water and solvents are reused.

Why it’s great:

• Silky soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking

• Made in an eco-friendly closed-loop system

• Biodegradable

• Great for tees, button-downs, and loungewear

For guys who want fashion-forward, sustainable options, TENCEL™ offers a modern, elevated look with all-day comfort.

 

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5. Linen

Made from the flax plant, linen is one of the oldest and most eco-friendly fabrics. It’s lightweight, breathable, and requires minimal water and pesticides to grow.

Why it’s great:

• Biodegradable and naturally antibacterial

• Extremely breathable—perfect for warm climates

• Becomes softer and stronger with every wash

• Ideal for shirts, trousers, and relaxed summer fits

Linen’s raw, natural look aligns perfectly with modern slow fashion and minimalist aesthetics.

 

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Final Thoughts: Choose Clothes That Matter

When you choose clothing made from these eco-friendly materials, you’re doing more than just investing in better quality—you’re making a conscious decision to support sustainability, ethical labor, and a healthier planet.

At Outsider, we prioritize fabrics like organic cotton and recycled fibers to craft bold, modern clothes that don’t compromise the environment. Our mission is simple: deliver timeless, high-quality pieces designed for now and built for the future.

Discover sustainable men’s fashion made with purpose. Shop at Outsider.