Leger, a lifestyle brand and eco-conscious label based in Hong Kong, partners with artists around the world to create limited-edition yoga towels made from sustainable materials.
Each towel is made from 12 to 18 plastic bottles which might otherwise have ended up in landfills – and can be recycled and reused instead of discarded. The towels have different surfaces: a soft ultra-absorbent vegan suede on the top, and a dense felt-like fabric at the back for support and moisture wick properties.
Leger is French for light and the label tends to prioritise warm colours to express “the passion and infinite energy of the soul”. The label’s first collection – Utsana – was created in partnership with French artist Laura Deleuze who specialises in curves and vibrant colours.
Leger’s founder – who prefers to maintain a low profile – was inspired to launch the product after an unsuccessful search for an eco-friendly mat.
“As a yoga teacher, I was looking for a mat topper that was practical yet performant, but also non-toxic and made from 100-per-cent sustainable provenance – I know it was a lot to ask!” she explains on the company’s website.
“Surprisingly I couldn’t find a product in the market that was completely eco-friendly and provided those moisture-activated, non-slip and protection qualities I needed. I tried many alternatives and they were either eco-friendly, but not performant enough, or non-slip but not from a sustainable source.”
She goes on to explain that finding versatility and practicality in a towel was another surprising struggle. “The towels and toppers available were either too thin – which provided almost no protection during a practice – or they were thick and heavy, and non-washable. A natural anti-microbial spray is nice, but I want to be able to get all the toxins in my sweat completely out. (Yes, I’m a bit of a germaphobe and OCD).”
After researching sustainable materials, such as recycled, renewable, or biodegradable options, she settled on rPet – a polyester made from recycled plastic bottles that can be re-recycled again. Subsequent testing of samples at yoga classes and in locations such as beaches and studios, and surfaces including dry sand and wet, cement floors, wood panels, and grass. The end result was a towel that features what she describes as “the perfect woven mix” with an option of additional silicone dots for extra grip and support.
After creating the perfect towel, she switched her focus from sustainability to design style, seeking to find something unique and suited to small batches rather than mainstream commercial production.
“For me, a yoga practice is a sacred time. It’s a space where one allows oneself to just be, and be present. I wanted the designs and the colours to reflect this inner peace and strength.”
“I wanted the towel to express creativity; for every owner using the towel to feel and appreciate their beauty, strength, and emotional power. Like art. So I reached out to artists whose work I had a strong connection with.
Leger sells yoga towels online and contributes 1 per cent of its profits to Plastic Oceans.
These colourful yoga towels are not the only stylish kit for eco-conscious women made from discarded rubbish. Check out this swimwear from Beginning Boutique of Australia, made from recycled fishing nets and plastic bottles.
