The 14 Athletic Wear Companies That Are Actually Good for the World

Manufacturing: This athletic footwear company adheres to the Fair Labor Standards Act and vows (kinda vaguely) to “uphold the highest standards of labor practices, including human and workers’ rights.”

Environment: Their shoeboxes and packaging are made from 100 percent recycled materials. Merrell is also one of the largest purchasers of renewable energy in Michigan. There’s no cause too small, either: Even the head office composts all its leftover food, including plates and cutlery — don’t worry, they’re biodegradable, too!

Philanthropy: They’re big contributors to organizations that get people active: Project Athena provides race training and entry fees for women recovering from illnesses, and Outdoor Nation travels the country “reconnecting millennials with the outdoors.” (So I guess we’re not beyond help!). Merrell also donates old apparel to charity, sent 4,000 shoes to Haiti, and has contributed more than half a million dollars to United Way, a global volunteer organization.