At Kukri Sports, we believe that performance on the field should never come at the cost of the planet. As a global provider of bespoke sportswear, we understand the environmental challenges that come with apparel production, which includes water usage. That’s why water conservation is a key focus of our sustainable manufacturing strategy.

The Hidden Cost of Water in the Apparel Industry

Globally, the apparel industry is a major consumer of freshwater. From cotton cultivation to dyeing fabrics, producing a single T-shirt can require thousands of litres of water. Compounding the issue, water used in textile processes is often discharged untreated, polluting natural waterways and damaging ecosystems.

At Kukri, we see these statistics as a call to action. Rather than continuing with unsustainable practices, we are committed to rethinking our production methods to limit water usage at every stage.

How Kukri Is Actively Reducing Water Consumption

Water conservation isn’t a future goal—it’s a current reality at Kukri Sports. Our efforts span across design, sourcing, manufacturing, and distribution:

1. Using Recycled Performance Fabrics

Our full range of sustainable products feature recycled polyester yarns made from post-consumer waste. By avoiding virgin materials like conventional cotton—which is water-intensive to grow—we significantly reduce our upstream water consumption. Recycled fibres also require far less water during processing, helping lower our overall environmental footprint.

2. Dry-Dye Technology

We collaborate with manufacturers who utilize DryDye® technology, an innovative dyeing process that eliminates the need for water in fabric coloration. This environmentally responsible method uses supercritical carbon dioxide (CO₂) instead of water, significantly reducing water consumption, chemical use, and energy emissions. By partnering with suppliers who implement DryDye®, Kukri Sports demonstrates its commitment to sustainable practices and eco-friendly innovation within the sportswear industry, helping to minimise environmental impact while maintaining high-quality performance apparel for athletes and teams worldwide.

3. Eco-friendly Treatment Systems

We work closely with manufacturers that operate their own in-house drying facilities and are equipped with advanced effluent treatment systems to manage and treat wastewater responsibly. These manufacturers adhere to strict environmental standards and hold recognised accreditations that demonstrate their commitment to sustainable and ethical production practices.

4. Reducing Overproduction

Through our made-to-order model, we avoid mass-producing stock that may never be sold. This strategy drastically reduces the water typically wasted in the production of unused garments. Where surplus does exist, we rehome it through donations and repurposing—ensuring minimal waste and no unnecessary resource usage.

5. Sustainable Packaging

Every element of our packaging—from swing tags to polythene bags—is made using recycled and recyclable materials. While packaging may not directly use water, its manufacture does—and by using recycled materials, we help limit the embedded water used in its life cycle.

Water Is a Shared Responsibility

According to the UN, water scarcity already affects over 40% of the global population. As extreme weather patterns and rising consumption levels continue, the fashion industry must lead by example.

At Kukri, we believe it’s our responsibility to go beyond compliance—not just to reduce water usage, but to inspire others across the sector to act.

Looking Ahead

Our sustainability approach is ongoing. We continually monitor and adapt our production processes to become more water-efficient, reduce waste, and support global environmental goals. By choosing Kukri, customers and partners are not only investing in high-performance apparel—they’re backing a brand that’s helping preserve one of our most precious resources.

Explore more about our efforts at kukrisports.com/sustainability and read our Social Responsibility Statement.