Bring on the seaweed and pineapple leaves! Interest in new eco-conscious textiles is on the rise with survey participants willing to make more room for natural fibers in their workout wardrobes. For example, 59 percent of respondents said they would “very likely” consider purchasing alternative plant-based materials that help mitigate ocean plastics pollution. “I am automatically attracted to sustainably made products,” was a typical comment. Survey takers are also supportive of brands and retailers taking a stance on political issues, by a two to one margin in fact, with 69 percent giving a thumbs up compared to 31 percent responding “no.” The impact of cultural trends and current events on purchasing decisions was eye opening. For example, for all the talk about tariffs throughout the year, approximately two thirds of respondents said that the issue was not influential when shopping. And while it often seems like social media is a mainstay of consumers’ daily life, our survey takers are not big into Instagram; just 7 percent of respondents reported Instagram to be “very influential.” Said one participant, “I may look for ideas, but it is not a regular format for me.” Another person commented, “I recently deleted my Instagram.”
The survey, conducted by MESH01, included 199 respondents, men and women active in sports and outdoors, ages 18 to 59.