Recycled Polyester in Activewear: 2026 Market Analysis

Recycled polyester market projected to reach $38 billion by 2027. rPET made from recycled plastic bottles through mechanical or chemical recycling. Performance: 95-98% equivalent to virgin polyester in moisture-wicking, durability, and color vibrancy. Environmental benefits: 59% less energy, 32% less CO2 vs virgin production. Certifications: GRS (Global Recycled Standard), RCS (Recycled Claim Standard) required for market access. Major brands: Patagonia, Nike, Adidas using 50%+ rPET in collections. Cost premium: $0.30-0.80/meter higher than virgin. Consumer willingness to pay 10-15% premium for sustainable products. Huada exploring rPET partnerships for 2026-2027 product launches.