As the global yoga community continues to grow, so does the desire to align our practice with conscious choices that extend beyond the mat. In 2024, supporting ethical yoga brands isn’t just a trend—it’s a commitment to sustainability, fair labor practices, and the deeper values that yoga teaches us.
At Vikasa Yoga Retreat in Koh Samui, Thailand, we believe in embracing the yoga lifestyle holistically. That’s why we’ve made conscious changes to support sustainable choices, including switching to eco friendly yoga mats by Manduka. If you’re looking to upgrade your gear this year, here’s a curated list of brands that blend style, functionality, and ethics—all while honoring the heart of yoga.
Why Choose Ethical Yoga Brands?
Your yoga mat, clothing, and props are more than accessories—they’re extensions of your practice. Choosing sustainable yoga brands helps reduce environmental impact, supports workers’ rights, and reflects the yogic principles of non-harming (ahimsa), mindfulness, and integrity.
As highlighted in our guide to the yamas and niyamas, practicing yoga ethically includes how we consume and engage with the world.
1. Manduka – The Gold Standard for Sustainable Yoga Mats
One of the best yoga brands leading the eco movement is Manduka. Known for their eco-friendly yoga mats, Manduka’s products are designed for longevity, comfort, and planet-conscious performance.
At Vikasa, we recently upgraded to Manduka yoga mats across all yoga spaces to reduce waste and enhance our guests’ practice.
Why we love them:
- Non-toxic, biodegradable natural rubber mats
- Closed-cell surfaces for easy cleaning
- Ethically produced with a lifetime guarantee
- Strong community and environmental initiatives
Their commitment to mindful production aligns perfectly with the yoga lifestyle, making Manduka a top pick in 2024.
2. prAna – Ethical Yoga Clothing for Conscious Movement
Founded on a love for climbing and yoga, prAna has become a go-to for ethical yoga clothing made with sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, and recycled polyester. They are certified Fair Trade and prioritize reducing their carbon footprint across their supply chain.
Top Picks:
- Stretchy, breathable yoga leggings
- Comfortable, supportive sports bras
- Lightweight hoodies and cover-ups for travel yogis
Their apparel is ideal for yogis who live in their gear and want fashion that supports both movement and mindful living.
3. Girlfriend Collective – Inclusive and Sustainable Activewear
Girlfriend Collective is redefining what ethical yoga brands look like. With a focus on transparency and body positivity, their products are made from recycled materials like post-consumer water bottles and fishing nets.
What sets them apart:
- Extended sizing from XXS to 6XL
- Transparent supply chains
- Minimalist, modern designs
- Non-toxic dyes and recyclable packaging
Their activewear is functional, flattering, and responsibly made—perfect for your morning flow or post-yoga beach stroll in Koh Samui.
4. Yogi Bare – Playful and Eco-Friendly Yoga Props
For those seeking an eco friendly yoga mat with a bit of fun, Yogi Bare combines sustainability with creative design. Their mats are made from natural rubber and water-based inks, with gripping textures ideal for sweaty practices.
They also offer eco-conscious accessories like cork yoga blocks, biodegradable straps, and acupressure mats for recovery and relaxation.
5. Vikasa Yoga Sets – Exclusive, Comfortable & Designed for Movement
If you’re visiting us in Koh Samui, you’ll definitely want to check out our Vikasa yoga sets—because they’re not just stylish, they’re THE most comfortable yoga wear around 🤩
Designed with our community in mind, these sets offer the perfect combination of softness, stretch, and breathability, ideal for everything from morning flows to beachside meditations.
But here’s the catch: These sets are only available onsite, making them a unique memento of your time at Vikasa. So if you needed another reason to visit us in paradise—this is it!
Whether you’re flowing through a sun salutation or grabbing a juice at Life Café, Vikasa sets are your go-to for comfort and effortless style on and off the mat.
Living the Yoga Lifestyle Through Conscious Choices
At Vikasa, yoga is not just a class—it’s a way of living, a path that inspires us to choose better, live lighter, and support brands that share our values. As we continue to advocate for sustainable living through yoga philosophy, we invite you to reflect on how your yoga gear impacts both your practice and the planet.
Practice with Purpose in 2024
Supporting ethical yoga brands is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to embody the yoga lifestyle. Whether you’re choosing an ethically made yoga mat, eco-friendly apparel, or recycled props, your purchase becomes part of a larger movement toward mindful living.
At Vikasa, we’re proud to support and collaborate with conscious companies like Manduka. We believe in building a future where wellness, sustainability, and spirituality go hand in hand.
Join us in living yoga on and off the mat. Explore the Vikasa lifestyle and experience conscious practice in paradise.