Top Sustainable Apparel for Custom Printing

You're looking for sustainable custom apparel that actually delivers on their environmental promises—not just greenwashed marketing. Whether you're outfitting a team, planning an eco-conscious event, or building a brand that aligns with your values, the choices can feel overwhelming.

This guide cuts through the noise with specific product recommendations across eleven categories, from budget-friendly basics to premium performance gear. You'll get the technical details that matter—fabric compositions, certifications, price points—plus practical advice on when to choose each option. No fluff, no vague sustainability claims, just the products that work and the information you need to make confident decisions.

Why Sustainable Apparel Makes Business Sense Right Now

Sustainable apparel is no longer just a trend—it's a rapidly expanding market force and a strategic move for organizations of all sizes. The global sustainable apparel sector has witnessed strong, consistent growth, driven by a fundamental shift in consumer expectations. Nearly three-quarters of U.S. buyers are now willing to pay more for responsibly produced garments, often spending close to 10% extra for items made with environmental considerations in mind—even in an era where cost pressures are top of mind for many.

Globally, more than 70% of shoppers value verifiable sustainability credentials when choosing apparel, and products with such claims are outpacing conventional clothing in growth by a factor of two or three. This robust demand has resulted in sustainable apparel capturing an ever-increasing share of the overall clothing market and driving a significant portion of industry growth in recent years.

The business advantages are clear: apparel lines that lead with authentic eco-conscious messaging earn greater customer loyalty, access new audience segments, and build brand trust in ways that generic "green" claims simply can't match. Over 85% of consumers say they feel better about apparel purchases from brands with credible sustainability programs, and more than half report that a company’s environmental practices directly influence their buying decisions.

By investing in sustainable custom apparel, organizations can not only reduce long-term reputational and supply chain risks but also establish themselves as forward-thinking leaders in the evolving marketplace. Making the pivot to eco-friendly apparel isn’t just good stewardship—it’s smart business.

Our Top Picks: Sustainable Custom Apparel

We've organized this by product category, with two options at different price points for each. These picks reflect what actually works—products our customers reorder, brands with verifiable sustainability programs, and items our team trusts based on years of handling custom orders. You'll get the technical specs, sustainability credentials, and practical guidance on when each makes sense for your project.

Sustainable Tees

Hanes EcoSmart T-Shirt (Style 5170)

This 5.2 oz. workhorse blends 50/50 cotton and polyester with up to 5% recycled polyester sourced from plastic bottles—a modest but genuine step that diverts waste from landfills while keeping costs accessible at $3–$4 per shirt in bulk. The construction is standard Hanes reliability: double-needle stitching at the neckline, sleeves, and hem, shoulder-to-shoulder taping, and a lay-flat collar that holds its shape through repeated washing. The tearaway tag gives you clean branding flexibility, and the expanded sizing runs up to 26 colors, from basic whites and blacks to vibrant event shades. Hanes backs this with ongoing sustainable manufacturing initiatives, making the 5170 a practical entry point for organizations wanting to reduce environmental impact without breaking budgets.

Best for: High-volume needs—branded giveaways, staff uniforms, grassroots campaigns, and community events. The broad color range lets you match brand guidelines or create contrast for bold logo visibility. If you're outfitting a large group on a tight budget and want to make an eco-friendly statement, this is your reliable baseline.

Nike Swoosh Sleeve rLegend Tee (Style NKDX8730)

The rLegend Tee delivers premium performance with 4 oz. of 100% recycled polyester jersey, engineered with Nike's Dri-FIT moisture-wicking technology for active comfort. This isn't a token sustainability gesture—the entire fabric comes from recycled sources, reflecting Nike's broader commitment to circular design and reduced environmental impact. Construction details include neck tape for durability, a heat-transfer tag-free label, and the signature Swoosh on the left sleeve. Twelve colors span classic team tones to contemporary brights, with pricing typically starting above $22 per tee. Nike's sustainability initiatives are industry-leading, backed by transparent reporting and ambitious recycled content targets across their product lines.

Best for: When brand association matters—athletic uniforms, training gear, exclusive event merchandise, or corporate wellness programs where quality signals commitment. The lightweight feel handles detailed prints well, and the performance features justify the premium for teams that actually move. If you want authentic environmental credentials paired with recognizable branding, the rLegend backs up the story.

Explore our complete selection of Sustainable T-shirts.

Sustainable Hoodies

Jerzees NuBlend Pullover Hoodie (Style 996)

The NuBlend 996 delivers solid value at $12 and up in bulk, built from 8 oz. pill-resistant fleece that blends 50/50 sustainably sourced USA-grown cotton with polyester. The high stitch density creates a smooth printing surface that holds up through repeated washing—important for designs you want to last. Construction includes a two-ply hood with dyed-to-match drawcords, front pouch pocket, ribbed cuffs and waistband with spandex for shape retention, and a tearaway label for easy rebranding. Jerzees offers this in up to 50 colors, covering everything from corporate neutrals to bold event shades. The company reports annually on sustainable manufacturing and socially conscious production practices, focusing on reducing environmental impact while maintaining accessible pricing for mass-market apparel.

Best for: Team uniforms, staff giveaways, school spirit collections, or any scenario where frequent washing and active use demand durability without premium pricing. The pill-resistant surface handles screen printing, digital methods, and embroidery reliably. Match high-energy logos with complementary colors for visual impact, and lean into the sustainability story for campus or community programs where budget and values both matter.

Champion Reverse Weave Pullover Hoodie (Style S1051)

Champion's S1051 represents the premium tier—12 oz. of 82% cotton/18% polyester built with proprietary Reverse Weave construction that's cut sideways to minimize vertical shrinkage and extend garment life across countless washes. The brushed interior, double-needle stitching, two-ply hood, and ribbed cuffs and waistband deliver exceptional warmth and structure that holds up to serious use. Eighteen colors range from neutral basics to athletic brights, with pricing above $50 per hoodie reflecting both the iconic Champion brand and legitimate sustainability credentials. Champion facilities emphasize renewable energy usage and maintain Fair Labor Association partnerships for third-party oversight on social responsibility, backing up the premium positioning with verifiable practices.

Best for: Alumni merchandise, high-profile corporate swag, or retail lines where quality and brand recognition justify the investment. The substantial weight and polished fit make ideal canvases for refined embroidery, large-format prints, or limited-edition collections. Consider subtle branding or tonal prints with classic colors to create a genuinely premium sustainable statement piece that people actually want to wear and keep.

View our full range of Eco-Friendly Hoodies.

Sustainable Polos

Gildan DryBlend Jersey Sport Polo (Style G880)

The DryBlend G880 sits in the $7–$13 range depending on quantity and color, making it accessible for larger uniform orders without sacrificing sustainability credentials. The 6 oz. fabric runs 50/50 preshrunk cotton and polyester, with 50% of the cotton sourced from USA-grown, sustainably and fairly managed crops. Gildan manufactures using renewable energy and maintains transparent sustainability reporting, backing up the eco-friendly positioning with measurable practices. The DryBlend construction wicks moisture effectively for all-day comfort, while the contoured welt collar and cuffs, three-button placket, and tearaway label deliver classic polo functionality. Around 20 color options span uniform standards to standout brights, giving you flexibility for brand matching or team identity.

Best for: Staff uniforms, event volunteers, golf outings, or any scenario where breathability and professional appearance matter at scale. The smooth surface takes embroidery, screen printing, and vinyl designs well—consider high-contrast logos against the broad color palette for maximum visibility. The value price point makes outfitting large teams feasible while maintaining legitimate eco-credentials, particularly useful for organizations wanting to demonstrate environmental commitment across entire workforces.

Adidas Performance Polo (Style A230)

The A230 operates in premium territory at $35 and up, built entirely from 100% recycled polyester with a hydrophilic finish that enhances moisture management and comfort. The 3.8 oz. fabric includes UPF 50 (or UPF 30 on some models) sun protection, a rib-knit collar for structure, and a contrast Adidas logo on the sleeve that reinforces brand authenticity. Twelve colors range from corporate neutrals to team-forward brights, supporting diverse branding applications. Adidas leads globally in sustainable sportswear development, with aggressive benchmarks for recycled content and responsible sourcing that go beyond industry minimums—this isn't marketing spin, it's backed by third-party verification and transparent reporting.

Best for: Premium staff attire, tournament officials, upscale company polos, or situations where performance meets professional style. The lightweight, quick-dry fabric handles heat-press or embroidery decoration effectively. Match the color to brand guidelines and use subtle customization to complement rather than compete with the high-end appeal. The recycled polyester story adds tangible value for organizations wanting to demonstrate environmental leadership in client-facing or executive contexts.

See all Sustainable Polos in our catalog.

Sustainable Sweatshirts

Jerzees NuBlend Fleece Sweatshirt (Style 562)

The NuBlend 562 crewneck hits the $6–$12 bulk price range with 8 oz. pill-resistant fleece that blends sustainably sourced USA-grown cotton and polyester at 50/50. The high stitch density creates a smooth surface that takes prints cleanly and holds detail through repeated washing—crucial for designs that need to stay sharp. Construction includes a tear-away label, two-needle stitching on collar, armholes, and waistband, plus ribbed collar, cuffs, and waistband with spandex for shape retention. Up to 40 colors span classic shades to bold event hues, giving you versatility for brand matching or campaign themes. Jerzees maintains sustainable style certifications and socially conscious manufacturing practices, with annual reporting that reinforces their commitment to reducing environmental impact in mass-market production.

Best for: Custom giveaways, organization merchandise drives, general event wear, or scenarios where budget constraints meet sustainability goals. Pair your logo with high-contrast colors or coordinate with campaign themes for immediate visual impact. The smooth, pill-resistant surface handles digital printing, screen printing, and embroidery effectively, so designs stay crisp even after heavy rotation in active environments.

American Apparel ReFlex Fleece Crewneck Sweatshirt (Style RF496)

The RF496 operates in the $25–$35 range with a more sophisticated sustainability approach: 7.6 oz. of 70% combed ring-spun cotton blended with 30% recycled polyester in a 3-end fleece construction. The face is 100% cotton for a soft hand and clean print surface, while the relaxed fit and stretch ribbing deliver comfort. Details matter here—the 1" rolled back dropped shoulder seam and back neck patch simplify decoration placement, and the recycled tear-away label streamlines rebranding. American Apparel dyes this with OEKO-TEX certified low-impact dyes and sources cotton through U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol membership, meeting rigorous third-party sustainability standards. Ten colors range from classic neutrals to vibrant options for diverse brand applications.

Best for: Retail collections, creative campaigns, or premium team wear where elevated quality justifies higher investment. The dropped shoulder seam and back neck patch offer unique decoration opportunities—consider feature placements that leverage these design elements for differentiation. This sweatshirt handles embroidery, direct-to-garment, and screen printing exceptionally well, making it suitable for detailed artwork or limited-edition runs where sustainability credentials enhance brand positioning.

Discover more Sustainable Sweatshirts across our inventory.

Sustainable Quarter-Zips

Jerzees NuBlend Quarter Zip Pullover (Style 4528)

The NuBlend 4528 delivers substantial 9.5 oz. fleece at $17–$23 in bulk, blending responsibly sourced USA-grown cotton with polyester at 50/50 for durability and easy care. High stitch density creates a virtually pill-free surface that's particularly suited to screen printing or vinyl decoration. The self-material cadet collar, brass-tone zipper, ribbed cuffs and waistband with spandex, and seamless set-in sleeves provide classic quarter-zip functionality with enhanced movement. Five color options cover basic branding needs while keeping production straightforward. Jerzees maintains sustainable style certifications and reports annually on social responsibility commitments, focusing on measurable community impact alongside environmental practices.

Best for: Uniforms, job sites, event volunteers, or any scenario requiring easy layering without heavy bulk. The quarter-zip design handles cool conditions effectively while maintaining mobility for active roles. For sharpest results, use contrasting ink colors or embroider logos above the zipper for professional presentation. The substantial weight and smooth surface make this particularly useful for outdoor groups needing warmth and durability at accessible price points.

Adidas Recycled Quarter-Zip Pullover (Style A401)

The A401 pushes into premium territory at $40 and above with 100% recycled polyester construction and performance-driven features. This 6.1 oz. pullover uses moisture-wicking hydrophilic technology for dry comfort and includes UPF 50+ sun protection—genuinely useful for outdoor events, active applications, or travel scenarios. The self-mock collar, cuffs, and bottom hem deliver tailored, modern styling, while the contrast Adidas logo on the left sleeve maintains brand authenticity. Twelve colors span bold brights to understated neutrals, supporting diverse branding applications. Adidas leads industry sustainability benchmarks with transparent reporting and aggressive recycled content targets backed by third-party verification—this represents legitimate environmental leadership, not greenwashing.

Best for: Branded teamwear, VIP outdoor events, upscale corporate gifts, or situations where lightweight technical performance reinforces brand values. Embroidery works well for multi-use durability, and matching colors to organizational identity creates cohesive, high-impact presentation. The combination of recycled construction and genuine performance features justifies the premium for organizations wanting sustainability credentials that actually deliver functional benefits.

Browse our full collection of Sustainable Quarter-Zips.

Sustainable Jackets

Independent Trading Co. Lightweight Windbreaker Pullover Jacket (Style EXP54LWZ)

The EXP54LWZ windbreaker delivers functional outdoor protection at $29–$34, built from 100% polyester that increasingly sources from recycled materials in newer production runs. The water-resistant interior coating provides 600mm waterproof pressure—enough for light rain and wind protection without heavy-duty bulk. Design features include a three-panel mesh-lined hood, matte finish zippers, toggled waistband for fit adjustment, and single-layer construction that enhances printability. Five core colors cover basic branding needs, and the tearaway label simplifies customization. Independent Trading Co. invests in responsible sourcing and lean manufacturing practices, distinguishing this from typical bulk windbreakers that lack sustainability oversight.

Best for: Team gear, outdoor events, work sites, or situations where weather protection and comfort matter more than insulation. Choose visibility colors with bold logos for maximum impact, or use neutral hues for sleeker professional presentation. The lightweight, packable design makes this particularly useful for varied climates and active teams wanting protection without weight. The easy layering works well for groups needing functional, eco-conscious outerwear at accessible price points.

The North Face Sweater Fleece Jacket (Style NF0A3LH7)

The NF0A3LH7 operates at premium level—typically above $80 in singles—with soft sweater-knit fleece containing 53% recycled polyester. The brushed interior delivers genuine warmth, while construction details like the reverse-coil zipper, hand pockets, secure-zip left chest pocket, and contrast embroidered logo provide consistent performance and recognizable brand value. Four core colors suit corporate, team, or retail applications with a modern profile. The North Face maintains rigorous sustainability protocols with transparent reporting on post-consumer recycled content and environmental impact reduction, backing up the premium positioning with verifiable third-party certifications.

Best for: Premium employee gifts, outdoor teams, upscale branded outerwear, or high-visibility marketing programs where quality signals organizational values. The substantial fabric and clean design make this ideal for embroidery and high-end decoration. Suggest subtle chest logos to elevate professionalism while reinforcing sustainability credentials. Use in contexts where eco-awareness is central to brand messaging—the recognizable North Face brand combined with genuine recycled content creates tangible credibility for sustainability-focused initiatives.

See our full selection of Sustainable Jackets.

Sustainable Hats

econscious Organic Cotton Twill Baseball Hat (Style EC7000)

The EC7000 delivers classic casual styling with 100% certified organic cotton twill, reducing chemical and water usage compared to conventional cotton production. This unstructured 6-panel design offers a soft, relaxed fit with matching sewn eyelets for breathability and an adjustable brass-slider self-fabric closure. Nine color options range from basic black to emerald forest, covering neutral and statement branding needs. Pricing typically runs $9–$18, depending on order quantity, making organic cotton accessible for moderate budgets. Econscious participates in 1% For The Planet, donating a portion of sales to environmental nonprofits, and uses OEKO-TEX certified dyes with OCS (Organic Content Standard) certification to verify organic content claims.

Best for: Outdoor events, green team giveaways, retail programs, or any scenario where sustainability credentials matter to your audience. The clean 6-panel surface effectively handles embroidery, patches, or printed logos. The soft organic twill provides comfortable all-day wear, and the environmental story—reduced chemical use, certified organic sourcing, charitable contribution—strengthens brand positioning for organizations championing responsible promotional gear.

New Era Recycled Snapback Cap (Style NE208)

The NE208 brings modern trucker styling to sustainable headwear at $12–$19 per cap, featuring 100% Repreve® recycled polyester twill front panels with breathable polyester mesh backing. The structured, mid-profile 6-panel crown, pre-curved visor, and seven-position snapback closure deliver the reliable fit and lasting shape New Era is known for. Five color options—including graphite and bright scarlet—suit diverse branding applications. The 9FORTY fit and snapback adjustment provide versatility across age groups and style preferences. Repreve® specifically sources recycled materials from plastic bottles, giving this cap a tangible upcycling story that resonates with environmentally conscious audiences.

Best for: Branded events, uniforms, team swag, or promotional giveaways where modern styling meets sustainability messaging. The front panels offer a highly printable surface area for embroidered logos or patches. Match cap color to logo artwork for sharper visual impact, and highlight the Repreve® recycled plastic story in campaign messaging—it's concrete, verifiable, and demonstrates measurable environmental impact that audiences can understand immediately.

Check out the wide assortment of Sustainable Hats.

Understanding Sustainable Apparel Materials

Material composition determines both environmental impact and garment performance. Organic cotton eliminates synthetic pesticides and reduces water consumption by up to 91% compared to conventional growing, making it ideal for everyday tees, hoodies, and casual wear where softness matters. Recycled polyester diverts plastic bottles from landfills and uses 59% less energy than virgin polyester production—it excels in performance apparel, activewear, and moisture-wicking garments where durability and technical features justify the material choice. Blended fabrics like 50/50 cotton-poly balance sustainability with wash-and-wear practicality at accessible price points, though they complicate end-of-life recycling.

Third-party certifications separate genuine sustainability from marketing spin. Look for OEKO-TEX Standard 100 for chemical safety testing, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) for organic fiber verification and ethical production, and Repreve® certification for traceable recycled polyester from plastic bottles. These credentials provide independent verification rather than relying on manufacturer claims alone.

For comprehensive guidance on fabric weights, certification standards, and how different materials perform across decoration methods, see our Complete Guide to Sustainable Materials in Custom Apparel and Promotional Products.

Building Authentic Sustainable Apparel Messaging

Credible sustainability messaging for custom apparel requires specific, verifiable details rather than vague environmental language. State exactly what makes garments sustainable: "100% recycled polyester sourced from plastic bottles" or "organic cotton certified by GOTS" rather than undefined terms like "eco-friendly" or "green." When customers understand the concrete environmental impact—16 plastic bottles diverted per hoodie, water savings from organic cotton, reduced pesticide use—they connect with the tangible benefits beyond generic claims.

Transparency builds lasting trust with apparel customers who increasingly research sustainability claims. Explain your material choices honestly, acknowledge limitations when they exist (blended fabrics sacrifice recyclability for durability), and provide certification details or manufacturing information when available. Integrate environmental commitment naturally into your broader brand story about quality, responsibility, or values rather than treating sustainability as separate marketing. The most effective sustainable apparel brands connect eco-conscious choices to their overall identity and customer experience.

For detailed strategies on crafting credible sustainability messaging, positioning environmental initiatives authentically, and avoiding greenwashing pitfalls in your custom apparel program, see our guide on How to Create Sustainable Brand Messaging Through Custom Apparel.

Creating Your Own Sustainable Custom Apparel

The products in this guide represent a focused selection from our extensive sustainable catalog—we carry hundreds of additional eco-conscious options across every category, from performance athletic wear to corporate attire to rugged outerwear. What matters most isn't just offering sustainable apparel, but understanding which ones work for your specific needs, budget, and branding goals. That's where our experience counts. We've processed millions of custom orders, tracked what holds up through real-world use, and built relationships with manufacturers who back up sustainability claims with verifiable practices.

When you work with RushOrderTees, you get direct access to that institutional knowledge—expert guidance on material selection, decoration methods that complement sustainable fabrics, and transparent pricing without greenwashing markup. Whether you're outfitting a team, launching an eco-conscious brand, or simply want your next order to reflect your values, we'll help you navigate the options and make decisions that actually deliver on environmental and business objectives. Browse our full sustainable product catalog or reach out to discuss your specific project—we're here to make this straightforward.