Your favorite pair of leggings does more than just get you through a morning vinyasa flow or a coffee run. In an era where our clothing choices carry environmental weight, recycled nylon athleisure leggings represent a quiet revolution—one where performance, style, and planetary responsibility converge seamlessly. No longer a niche compromise, these innovative pieces deliver the same sweat-wicking power, buttery softness, and sculpting compression as their virgin nylon counterparts, while diverting waste from landfills and ocean-bound plastic.
But not all recycled nylon leggings are created equal. From the molecular structure of regenerated polymers to the ergonomic engineering of waistbands, the details determine whether you’re investing in a wardrobe workhorse or a well-marketed disappointment. This guide unpacks everything you need to know to navigate the sustainable athleisure landscape with confidence, helping you distinguish genuine innovation from greenwashing and find your perfect match without sacrificing an ounce of performance.
Top 10 Recycled Nylon Athleisure Leggings
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Organic Basics Womens Active Recycled Nylon 28" Legging Pants, Black, XX-Large
Overview: These medium-impact leggings from Organic Basics deliver sustainable performance in a classic 28-inch inseam. Crafted from 60% recycled nylon and 40% elastane, they target eco-conscious athletes seeking reliable activewear without compromising environmental values. The streamlined silhouette suits various workouts, from yoga to light running, while the XX-Large sizing ensures accessibility across body types.
What Makes It Stand Out: The invisible inner waistband pocket provides discreet storage for keys or cards—a practical touch often missing in minimalist designs. The triangle gusset enhances mobility and comfort during deep stretches, while the reflective butterfly logo boosts visibility for dawn or dusk sessions. Organic Basics’ commitment to ethical production and recycled materials resonates throughout, making these leggings a statement piece for sustainable living.
Value for Money: At $63.96, these sit in the mid-range category. While pricier than fast-fashion alternatives, the cost reflects genuine sustainability efforts and durable construction. Comparable eco-friendly leggings typically run $70-90, positioning these as a reasonable investment for ethically-minded consumers. The quality materials justify the premium over conventional synthetics.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros: High recycled content, ethical manufacturing, functional pocket, mobility-enhancing gusset, reflective safety detail. Cons: Limited color options, moderate compression may not suit high-intensity training, price barrier for budget shoppers, and the 28" inseam may be short for taller users.
Bottom Line: Ideal for environmentally aware fitness enthusiasts who prioritize sustainability and thoughtful design. These leggings excel for medium-impact activities and everyday wear, though the price requires commitment to eco-values.
2. Organic Basics Womens Active Flow Recycled Nylon 28" Legging Pants, Black, Medium
Overview: The Active Flow leggings offer a more compressive alternative within Organic Basics’ sustainable line. With 83% recycled nylon content, these medium-high impact pants provide enhanced support for rigorous workouts. The 28-inch inseam and body-hugging waistband create a secure, streamlined fit suitable for running, cycling, or high-intensity training.
What Makes It Stand Out: The contrast side-stripe design adds subtle visual interest without compromising the minimalist aesthetic. Higher elastane content delivers superior compression and shape retention compared to the standard Active line. The same reflective butterfly logo maintains visibility, while the elevated recycled material percentage pushes sustainability credentials further.
Value for Money: Priced at $37.25, these represent exceptional value for sustainable activewear. They undercut most eco-friendly competitors by 30-50% while maintaining premium features. The durability and performance level rival leggings twice the price, making them an accessible entry point into ethical fitness fashion.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros: Outstanding recycled content percentage, superior compression, attractive side-stripe detail, ethical production, budget-friendly for sustainable wear. Cons: May feel too restrictive for yoga or lounging, lacks the hidden pocket of pricier models, and the tighter fit requires precise sizing.
Bottom Line: A standout choice for athletes seeking performance and planet-friendly materials on a budget. The compressive support suits high-energy workouts, though yogis might prefer a softer feel.
3. YITTY Active Women’s Ultraluxe High-Waist Legging, Athleisure, 4-Way-Stretch, Onyx, M, Regular
Overview: YITTY’s Ultraluxe leggings prioritize comfort and confidence with innovative design elements. The absence of a front seam eliminates camel toe concerns, while the high-waist tummy control smooths the midsection. Made from buttery-soft fabric with 4-way stretch, these transition seamlessly from gym sessions to casual errands, offering light to medium compression for versatile wear.
What Makes It Stand Out: The no-front-seam construction is a game-changer for body confidence, addressing a common leggings frustration. The extended long gusset provides exceptional freedom of movement, while UPF 50+ protection adds sun safety for outdoor activities. Moisture-wicking properties keep you dry, and the UltraLuxe fabric lives up to its name with a second-skin feel.
Value for Money: At just $21.24, these are remarkably affordable. They deliver features typically found in $60-80 leggings from premium athleisure brands. The combination of technical performance, comfort innovation, and versatile styling makes them one of the best value propositions available.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros: No camel toe design, superior comfort, tummy control, UPF 50+ protection, moisture-wicking, multiple inseam options, incredible price. Cons: May lack durability for heavy use, light compression insufficient for intense training, limited brand recognition, and fabric may pill over time.
Bottom Line: Perfect for everyday wear and low-to-medium impact activities. These leggings excel in comfort and confidence-boosting design, making them a smart buy for budget-conscious shoppers who refuse to compromise on innovative features.
4. YITTY Active Women’s Ultraluxe High-Waist Pocket Legging, Athleisure, 4-Way-Stretch, Iconic Black, XL, Regular | 27" Inseam
Overview: This pocketed version of YITTY’s Ultraluxe line combines functionality with flattering design. The 27-inch inseam and XL sizing demonstrate inclusive thinking, while the side pockets accommodate modern essentials like smartphones. The booty-lifting double back yoke creates a sculpted silhouette, making these leggings as stylish as they are practical for athleisure wear.
What Makes It Stand Out: Deep side pockets set these apart from many premium competitors who omit storage. The contour seam detail genuinely enhances rear shape without padding. Size inclusivity from XS to 4X ensures most body types find their perfect fit. The same UltraLuxe fabric provides moisture-wicking, 4-way stretch performance with UPF 50+ protection.
Value for Money: For $25.49, these leggings pack impressive features. Pockets, tummy control, and booty-sculpting design typically command $50-100 from established brands. The inclusive sizing and technical fabric performance make this an outstanding value for feature-focused buyers.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros: Functional deep pockets, flattering booty-lifting design, excellent size range, tummy control, UPF protection, moisture-wicking, affordable. Cons: Pockets may disrupt sleek silhouette for some users, light-medium compression may not support high-impact activities, and 27" inseam may be long for petite frames.
Bottom Line: The ultimate choice for shoppers wanting pockets and flattering fit without premium pricing. These leggings masterfully balance function, fashion, and affordability, though serious athletes may want more compression.
5. Organic Basics Womens Active Recycled Nylon 32" Flare Legging Pants, Black, Medium
Overview: These flared leggings cater to the fashion-forward athlete with a 32-inch inseam that creates a leg-lengthening silhouette. Maintaining Organic Basics’ sustainable ethos with 60% recycled nylon, they offer medium-impact support suitable for studio classes, travel, or casual wear. The flare design nods to current trends while providing functional activewear performance.
What Makes It Stand Out: The 32-inch inseam accommodates taller frames often underserved by standard leggings. The flared cut transitions effortlessly from workout to social settings, offering styling versatility. The invisible waistband pocket and triangle gusset maintain practicality, while the reflective butterfly logo preserves the brand’s safety-conscious design language.
Value for Money: At $88.27, these are the most expensive option reviewed. The premium reflects the specialized flared design and sustainable production. While costly compared to flared fast-fashion alternatives, they undercut designer sustainable activewear by 20-30%. The unique style and ethical manufacturing justify the investment for specific buyers.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros: Trendy flare silhouette, tall-friendly inseam, sustainable materials, ethical production, practical pocket, reflective detail. Cons: Highest price point, flare style limits high-intensity workout suitability, may drag on shorter users, and the niche design isn’t universally flattering.
Bottom Line: Best for tall individuals or flare enthusiasts prioritizing sustainability. These leggings serve a specific aesthetic and demographic well, but the price and style constraints make them a specialized rather than universal recommendation.
6. Amazon Essentials Leggings for Women -Active Sculpt Leggings for Women, Mid Rise, Full Length, Athleisure and Workout (Available in Plus Size), Black, Medium
Overview: The Amazon Essentials Active Sculpt Leggings deliver athletic performance at a mass-market price point. These mid-rise, full-length leggings feature medium compression and a moisture-wicking finish, positioning them as versatile staples for both gym sessions and daily errands. Designed to sit below the natural waist and just above the ankle, they promise a streamlined silhouette that flatters without restricting movement.
What Makes It Stand Out: The “Active Sculpt” technology sets these apart from basic budget leggings, offering targeted compression to smooth and shape. The concealed front pocket is a practical touch for storing cards or keys during workouts, while the fully flat-seamed construction minimizes chafing during extended wear. The inclusion of plus sizes demonstrates Amazon’s commitment to inclusive sizing, making these accessible to a broader range of body types.
Value for Money: At $14.30, these leggings significantly undercut premium competitors like Lululemon and Athleta while delivering comparable features. The moisture-wicking fabric and sculpting compression typically found in $50+ leggings make this an exceptional budget option for those building their activewear collection without sacrificing functionality.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the affordable price, versatile athleisure design, effective moisture-wicking, comfortable flat seams, and inclusive sizing. The concealed pocket adds convenience without bulk. Weaknesses are the mid-rise waist may slip during intense workouts, medium compression might be insufficient for high-impact support, and long-term durability remains questionable compared to premium brands. The limited color selection could also disappoint some shoppers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking multi-purpose leggings for low to medium-impact activities. While not built for elite performance, they excel as everyday activewear that transitions seamlessly from yoga class to grocery runs.
7. Jockey Women’s High Waist Nylon Pocket Full Length Leggings Deep Black
Overview: Jockey’s High Waist Nylon Leggings bring technical fabric innovation to the affordable activewear segment. Constructed from interlock nylon/spandex, these full-length leggings prioritize durability and coverage with a high-rise waistband that contours and supports. Engineered for yoga, fitness, and daily wear, they combine moisture-wicking performance with 4-way stretch mobility in a lightweight package that maintains opacity during movement.
What Makes It Stand Out: The bonded waistband technology provides superior support and a smooth silhouette without elastic digging. Side pockets with bonded edges offer practical storage superior to front pockets, securely holding phones during workouts. The interlock nylon/spandex blend delivers exceptional durability and shape retention rarely found at this price point, while maintaining breathability and a cool-touch feel against skin.
Value for Money: Priced at $16.80, these represent strong value from an established heritage brand. Jockey’s reputation for quality basics justifies the slight premium over generic alternatives, offering performance features like bonded construction and technical fabric typically seen in $40+ leggings. The investment translates to longer-lasting wear and consistent performance.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the supportive high waist, functional side pockets, durable nylon blend, excellent moisture management, and 4-way stretch mobility. The bonded waistband prevents rolling and discomfort. Weaknesses include the higher price point, nylon’s potential to feel less soft than polyester alternatives, limited style variations, and the waistband may feel restrictive for those preferring lower rises.
Bottom Line: Perfect for shoppers prioritizing waist support and pocket functionality. These leggings excel in durability and practical design, making them worth the modest premium for those seeking reliable performance across multiple workout types and daily activities.
Why Recycled Nylon Leggings Are Revolutionizing Sustainable Activewear
The athleisure market’s evolution toward recycled nylon marks a fundamental shift in how we approach performance apparel. Unlike early eco-friendly fabrics that prioritized sustainability over function, modern recycled nylon achieves the same tensile strength, elasticity, and durability as virgin material. The difference? It requires up to 80% less energy to produce and reduces reliance on petroleum extraction. What you’re really buying is textile circularity in action—old fishing nets, discarded carpets, and industrial plastic waste transformed through advanced depolymerization into filament fine enough for a second-skin fit.
Understanding Recycled Nylon: From Waste to Wardrobe
The Mechanical vs. Chemical Recycling Distinction
The journey from waste to wearable follows two primary paths. Mechanical recycling shreds and melts plastic waste directly, creating slightly lower-grade nylon that may lose strength over multiple cycles. Chemical recycling, the gold standard for premium leggings, breaks down waste to its molecular building blocks (caprolactam), allowing infinite regeneration without quality degradation. When evaluating leggings, understanding this distinction explains price differences and longevity expectations—chemical recycling maintains the polymer’s integrity for performance demands.
Source Material Matters: ECONYL® and Beyond
Most high-quality recycled nylon originates from specific waste streams: ghost fishing nets, carpet fluff, and pre-consumer textile waste. The source impacts the final fiber’s purity. Ocean-sourced nets, for instance, require extensive cleaning but yield exceptionally strong filament. Manufacturers increasingly transparent about their supply chain will specify waste origins, giving you insight into both quality and authentic environmental impact.
The Environmental Impact: Beyond the Buzzwords
Calculating True Carbon Footprint
While “recycled” sounds inherently eco-friendly, the full lifecycle analysis reveals nuances. Transportation of waste materials, chemical processing energy, and dyeing methods all factor into the true carbon equation. Leading manufacturers now publish Higg Index scores, revealing water usage, CO2 emissions, and chemical impact. Look for brands that offset remaining emissions through verified carbon programs and use renewable energy in production facilities.
Microplastic Shedding: The Hidden Trade-off
Here’s the uncomfortable truth: all synthetic fabrics shed microfibers during washing. Recycled nylon is no exception. The key difference lies in mitigation strategies. Premium leggings feature tighter knit constructions that reduce shedding by up to 70% compared to loosely knit alternatives. Pair your purchase with a microfiber-catching laundry bag or washing machine filter to close the loop on your environmental responsibility.
Key Performance Features to Look For
Compression Levels: Finding Your Perfect Fit
Compression isn’t binary—it’s a spectrum measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). Light compression (10-15 mmHg) suits recovery and all-day wear, while moderate levels (15-20 mmHg) support high-impact activities by stabilizing muscles and improving circulation. The magic lies in graduated compression, engineered tighter at ankles and gradually easing toward the waist. Test this by stretching the fabric; consistent resistance across the leg indicates quality engineering.
Moisture-Wicking and Breathability
Recycled nylon’s moisture management depends on fiber denier (thickness) and knit structure. Multi-filament yarns with micro-channels create capillary action that pulls sweat away from skin. For hot yoga or summer runs, seek leggings with 50-100 denier ratings and mesh panel integrations. The “breathability test” works at home: breathe through the fabric—significant air passage indicates excellent ventilation without compromising opacity.
Four-Way Stretch and Recovery
True four-way stretch requires mechanical engineering, not just fabric content. The warp (vertical) and weft (horizontal) threads must both contain elastane, knitted in a interlock pattern that allows 60-80% stretch with instant recovery. Perform the stretch test: pull the fabric diagonally and release. Immediate, wrinkle-free rebound indicates high-quality recovery that prevents baggy knees and seat.
Waistband Design: Comfort Meets Function
A waistband can make or break your leggings experience. The ideal construction features a 3-4 inch wide, double-layered band with internal elastic specifically engineered to prevent rolling. Look for “no-dig” construction where the elastic sits within a fabric channel, eliminating direct skin contact. For high-intensity activities, waistbands with light silicone gripper dots on the interior provide stay-put security without compromising comfort.
Fabric Blends: What Else Is in Your Leggings?
The Role of Elastane/Spandex
Pure recycled nylon lacks the stretch modern leggings demand. Elastane (spandex/Lycra) content typically ranges from 15-25%. The sweet spot for athleisure sits at 18-22%—enough stretch for movement without compromising compression or durability. Higher elastane percentages increase stretch but reduce breathability and may degrade faster. Check the fiber content label; anything under 15% elastane may lack sufficient recovery for active use.
Natural Fiber Integration
Some brands blend recycled nylon with merino wool, Tencel, or organic cotton to enhance temperature regulation and reduce synthetic feel. These hybrids excel for low-to-medium intensity activities but may sacrifice some compression and drying speed. The blend ratio matters: 70% recycled nylon/30% natural fiber maintains performance while adding comfort, whereas 50/50 splits lean more toward lifestyle wear than technical performance.
Transparency and Certifications That Matter
GRS Certification Explained
The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) verifies recycled content claims and tracks material through the supply chain. Crucially, GRS also audits social and environmental practices in manufacturing. Leggings bearing GRS certification guarantee at least 50% recycled content (most premium options exceed 80%) and ensure ethical production. Look for the specific percentage on product descriptions—vague “made with recycled materials” claims without certification warrant skepticism.
OEKO-TEX Standards
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification means every component (fabric, thread, dye, even elastic) has been tested for harmful substances. For recycled nylon, this is non-negotiable. The recycling process can introduce contaminants from original waste sources. Standard 100 certification ensures your leggings are free from heavy metals, formaldehyde, and AZO dyes that can irritate skin and harm ecosystems during production.
Fit and Sizing: The Make-or-Break Factors
Inseam Lengths for Different Body Types
Standard inseams (28-30 inches) don’t serve everyone. Petite frames need 25-26 inch inseams to avoid ankle bunching, while taller individuals require 32-34 inches for full coverage. Some brands offer multi-length options within the same style. The “perfect length” ends just above your ankle bone for full-length leggings, creating a streamlined silhouette without excess fabric.
Rise Options: High, Mid, and Low
High-rise (9+ inches) dominates athleisure for good reason—it provides core support and stays put during inversions. However, torso length determines true fit. Measure from your crotch to natural waist; if under 7 inches, mid-rise (7-9 inches) may fit more comfortably. Low-rise (under 7 inches) has largely phased out in performance wear due to functionality issues during movement.
Durability and Longevity: Investing Wisely
Pilling Resistance
Pilling occurs when broken fibers tangle on the surface. Recycled nylon’s fiber length—shorter than virgin nylon—increases pilling risk if not properly engineered. Look for “anti-pill” or “brushed” finishes that seal fiber ends. Fabric weight also matters; leggings over 250 GSM (grams per square meter) resist pilling better than lightweight versions. The “rub test” simulates thigh friction—vigorously rub the fabric against itself for 30 seconds; minimal fuzzing indicates good pill resistance.
Colorfastness
Recycled nylon absorbs dye differently than virgin material, requiring specialized dyeing processes. Premium leggings use solution dyeing, where pigment is added during polymer creation, resulting in color that never fades. Piece-dyed options should specify “azo-free” dyes and achieve a colorfastness rating of 4-5 (out of 5). Test by rubbing a damp white cloth on the fabric—any color transfer indicates poor dye fixation.
Care and Maintenance: Maximizing Lifespan
Washing temperature dramatically impacts longevity. Always use cold water (30°C/86°F max) to preserve elastane elasticity and recycled nylon strength. Heat breaks down polymer bonds over time. Skip fabric softeners—they coat fibers, reducing moisture-wicking ability and breathability. Instead, add white vinegar to the rinse cycle to remove buildup and restore pH balance. Air dry flat; hanging stretches the fabric vertically, while dryer heat degrades elastane by up to 30% in just ten cycles.
Styling Your Recycled Nylon Leggings
From Studio to Street
The athleisure aesthetic hinges on intentional styling. Pair sleek, minimalist leggings with oversized blazers and leather sneakers for elevated casual wear. For studio-to-brunch transitions, layer with a longline cardigan and statement accessories. The key is fabric finish—matte textures read more sophisticated than high-shine, which skews gym-only. Color choice matters too; deep jewel tones and earthy neutrals transition seamlessly across settings.
Seasonal Considerations
Winter layering demands brushed or fleece-lined recycled nylon for thermal regulation without bulk. Summer calls for ultra-lightweight, perforated panels in high-sweat zones. Transitional seasons benefit from mid-weight fabrics (200-250 GSM) that balance breathability with light warmth. Some brands offer “thermal mapping”—strategic paneling with varying densities for temperature control.
Price Points and Value Proposition
The recycled nylon leggings market spans $40 to $150+. Budget options ($40-60) typically use mechanically recycled nylon with minimal certification and basic construction. Mid-range ($70-100) offers chemical recycling, GRS certification, and thoughtful design details. Premium tiers ($110+) justify cost through proprietary fabric technologies, comprehensive sustainability reporting, and exceptional durability that amortizes to pennies per wear. Calculate cost-per-wear based on typical lifespan: quality leggings last 300-500 wears, making a $120 pair cost just $0.24-0.40 per use.
The Future of Recycled Materials in Athleisure
Innovation is accelerating beyond simple recycling. Bio-nylon, derived from renewable feedstocks like castor oil, is entering the market. Hybrid recycling combines ocean plastic with textile waste for enhanced performance. Most promising is “leg-to-leg” recycling programs where brands collect worn leggings to create closed-loop systems. As chemical recycling scales, expect price parity with virgin nylon within five years, making sustainable choice the default, not the premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is recycled nylon and how is it different from virgin nylon?
Recycled nylon is regenerated from waste materials like fishing nets, carpet fibers, and industrial plastic through either mechanical shredding or chemical depolymerization. Chemically recycled nylon is molecularly identical to virgin nylon, offering the same strength and performance, but requires 80% less energy and reduces petroleum extraction. The key difference lies in the production process and environmental impact, not the final fiber quality.
How much elastane should quality recycled nylon leggings contain?
Optimal recycled nylon leggings contain 18-22% elastane (spandex/Lycra). This ratio provides sufficient four-way stretch and recovery for active movement while maintaining breathability and durability. Less than 15% elastane may result in poor shape retention, while more than 25% can reduce moisture-wicking performance and accelerate fabric degradation from sweat and friction.
Do recycled nylon leggings pill more easily than regular nylon?
Not necessarily. While recycled nylon fibers are technically shorter than virgin fibers, premium manufacturers compensate through tighter knit constructions, anti-pill finishes, and higher fabric density (250+ GSM). Quality chemically recycled nylon with proper engineering resists pilling as well as virgin nylon. The key is avoiding bargain options with loose knits and insufficient fiber treatment.
How can I verify if leggings are truly made from recycled materials?
Look for specific certifications: Global Recycled Standard (GRS) verifies recycled content percentage and supply chain ethics, while OEKO-TEX Standard 100 ensures no harmful substances. Reputable brands state exact percentages (e.g., “83% recycled nylon”) rather than vague claims. Transparency reports detailing waste sources and manufacturing locations further validate authenticity.
What’s the ideal fabric weight for different activities?
For hot yoga and summer running, choose lightweight leggings under 200 GSM with mesh ventilation. All-purpose training and daily wear perform best at 200-280 GSM, balancing durability with breathability. Cold-weather outdoor activities require 300+ GSM or fleece-lined options. The “sheer test” helps: stretch the fabric over your hand in bright light; minimal visibility indicates appropriate opacity for your intended use.
Can I recycle my old recycled nylon leggings?
Currently, municipal recycling programs don’t accept textiles, but several athleisure brands operate take-back initiatives. These programs chemically recycle worn leggings into new fiber, creating a closed-loop system. Alternatively, donate lightly used pairs to textile recycling organizations that repurpose them for insulation or industrial rags. Always repair before discarding—small holes and seam issues are easily fixable.
How do I prevent my leggings from losing stretch over time?
Heat is the primary enemy of elastane. Always wash in cold water and air dry flat—never use a dryer. Avoid fabric softeners, which coat fibers and reduce elasticity. Rotate between multiple pairs to allow fibers to recover between wears. Store flat or gently folded rather than hanging, which stretches the fabric vertically. With proper care, quality leggings maintain compression for 300+ wears.
Are there specific washing instructions for recycled nylon?
Wash inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Use a microfiber-catching bag to reduce microplastic shedding. Skip bleach and fabric softeners entirely. For odor removal, soak in a solution of cold water and white vinegar before washing. Air dry flat away from direct sunlight, which can degrade dyes and fibers over time. Never iron or dry clean.
What rise height works best for different body types?
High-rise (9+ inches) suits most body types by providing core support and preventing roll-down. Those with shorter torsos (crotch-to-waist under 7 inches) may find mid-rise (7-9 inches) more comfortable. Petite frames should avoid ultra-high rises (11+ inches) that can extend past the ribcage. The “bend test” helps: bend forward at 90 degrees; if the waistband gaps or slides, the rise is wrong for your torso.
Do recycled nylon leggings cost more than virgin nylon options?
Currently, yes—typically 10-30% more due to complex collection, cleaning, and chemical processing. However, this premium is narrowing as technology scales. More importantly, cost-per-wear often favors recycled options because premium sustainable brands engineer for longevity. A $120 recycled nylon legging lasting 400 wears costs $0.30 per use, versus replacing a $60 virgin nylon pair every 150 wears at $0.40 per use.