Why So Many Leggings? Part 4: Patagonia

As someone who works in environmental education, I try to practice what I preach and live a more environmentally friendly lifestyle.

My downfall?

Leggings.

During lockdown/furlough, I have been practicing a lot of yoga and enjoying lots of runs on my local trails. I admit I have spent a lot of time on ebay looking at second hand leggings, and doing a fair bit of buying/selling. So I figured it was time to own up to my legging obsession, and share a little of what I've found out. It's tricky when you need leggings for running, leggings for yoga, leggings for hiking, leggings that can dress up/dress down, leggings for lounging... could there really be one pair to rule them all? And what are the eco credentials of the big brands?

These leggings were a second hand bargain and are great for hiking and yoga

Leaders of the Pack? Patagonia

Patagonia - where to begin? The pioneers of creating more environmentally friendly, made-to-last, ethical clothing and equipment. They are a founding member of 1% for the planet, and support many Grassroots charities. Nicknamed by many as "Patagucci", their products come at a price, but there is also a huge second hand market, which is even encouraged by the brand through their "Worn Wear" campaign.

But what about their leggings?

As I buy almost all my leggings second hand, looking for a pair of Patagonia leggings on the likes of ebay and depop is like panning for gold. You might pop on at just the right time and hit the jackpot, as I did with a pair of full length Centred Tights. 

Like many brands, Patagonia have created different leggings for different activities, with this pair designed more specifically for yoga. However, the reviews show them as an all-rounder: yoga, running, even hardy enough for climbing. Made with recycled polyester, Fair Trade sewn, and with links to the mill and factory, Patagonia really are the best in documenting the journey of their clothes. 

Wearing my Centred Crops for an afternoon yoga practice

Perhaps these are the one legging to rule them all? Colourful designs for running and yoga,  and their plain black ones can be dressed up. Comfortable, hardy, ethical, environmentally friendly... what more needs to be said?