Sustainable polo equipment means kit made from certified, lower-impact materials, packaged responsibly and designed to last more than one season, reducing waste across the life of every glove, pair of pants and set of elbow pads. At Ona Polo, sustainability is built into how we source, package and extend the life of the gear we make for the field.
At Ona Polo, we recognize the significant environmental impact of the fashion industry and are committed to playing our part in reducing our carbon footprint. As a brand deeply connected to the sport of polo, we understand the importance of sustainability and have implemented several initiatives to ensure our products and practices are eco-friendly.
Sustainable Materials and Products
One of the key ways we contribute to sustainability is by using Bluesign® and Oeko-Tex® certified fabrics in our polo pants. These certifications ensure that the materials we use are safe for both the environment and the people involved in the manufacturing process.
Recently, we launched the Eco Grip Polo Glove, made with recycled fibers sourced from a certified supplier. This innovative product not only meets high-performance standards but also supports the reduction of waste by reusing existing materials.
“We don’t treat certification as a marketing badge. Bluesign and Oeko-Tex tell us the chemistry and the finished cloth have both been checked, so a player can focus on the chukka, not on what’s against their skin.” — Alejandra Falkinhoff, CEO, Ona Polo
Eco-Friendly Packaging
Our commitment to sustainability extends to our packaging. All of our packaging materials are recyclable, minimizing the environmental impact from disposal. For instance, our elbow pads are packaged in handy dust bags that can be repurposed to store wallets, keys, or other valuables in your kit bag. This practical approach encourages the reuse of packaging materials, further reducing waste.
Extending Product Life
At Ona Polo, we believe that extending the life of our products is a crucial step in reducing waste and our overall carbon footprint. Many of our products are designed with longevity in mind, and we encourage our customers to find new uses for items that may no longer be suitable for their original purpose.
For example, a pair of gloves that has reached the end of its life for polo playing can still be useful for activities such as gardening, driving a tractor, carrying boxes, or even handling rubbish bins. By repurposing these items, we help reduce the need for new products and the associated environmental impact of manufacturing and disposal.
The polo kit lifecycle: buy well, use longer, repurpose
Extending product life is the single most effective sustainability lever in any sport. In polo specifically, the most environmentally responsible piece of equipment is usually the one you already own, kept in play for another season. We design around three principles:
- Durability first: choosing materials and construction that survive repeated chukkas and washing, so replacement cycles are longer.
- Care, not replace: straightforward maintenance (correct drying, wiping off excess dirt and sweat, gentle washing) keeps gloves and pants in match condition for longer.
- Second use: when gear can no longer perform on the field, it is repurposed for yard work, schooling or general use before it is ever discarded.
Quick care guide: How to make polo equipment last
| Item | To extend its life | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Polo gloves | Remove excess dirt after play, reshape and air-dry away from direct heat | Storing damp in kit bag |
| Polo pants / whites | Wash 30 degrees, line dry; treat stains promptly | High-heat drying that breaks down fibres and using aggressive whiteners |
| Elbow pads | Wipe down and air dry before storing in kit bag | Sealing away wet, which degrades all components |
| Eyewear | Use the supplied case; clean lenses with a microfibre cloth, this prevents scratching which is the main cause of replacement | Wiping dry lenses with abrasive fabric |
Ona Polo is dedicated to leading by example in the polo community by prioritizing sustainability in all aspects of our business. From using certified sustainable materials to promoting the reuse and repurposing of our products, we are committed to reducing our environmental impact and inspiring others to do the same. By choosing Ona Polo, you are not only supporting a brand that values high-quality performance but also one that is dedicated to making a positive difference for the planet.
Frequently asked questions
Is polo equipment recyclable?
Parts of it are. At Ona Polo all packaging is recyclable, and we design products to be reused and repurposed rather than discarded. Composite items like padded protection are harder to recycle, which is why extending their usable life through care and second use matters most.
What makes polo gear sustainable?
Three things: lower-impact certified materials (such as Bluesign and Oeko-Tex fabrics and recycled fibres), responsible recyclable and reusable packaging, and a longer product lifespan achieved through durability, repair and repurposing.
Are Ona Polo gloves made from recycled material?
Our Eco Grip Polo Glove is made with recycled fibres sourced from a certified supplier, combining high on-field performance with reduced material waste.
How should I care for polo equipment to make it last longer?
Players do not realise how much they can extend the life of their equipment with a little TLC (Tender Loving Care). See the quick care guide above.
