about the brand
Afends is an Australian fashion brand rooted in surf and skate culture, known for its strong focus on sustainable materials, especially organic hemp, and environmentally conscious production practices.
certifications
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Afends
Brand Rating & Evaluation
Overall Rating:
Conscious
Our ratings are based on a scale from 1 (Avoid) to 5 (Top Choice). See How We Rate
The Shifting Gaia rating evaluates brands based on sustainable practices, ingredients and materials, and social responsibility, among others. These are a few factors influencing this brand's score:
sustainability practices
Afends has made sustainability a core part of its identity. They prioritize using organic cotton, hemp, and recycled fibers in their collections, which helps reduce the environmental impact of their clothing. Hemp, in particular, is one of their signature materials due to its low water usage and rapid renewability. Afends also utilizes compostable packaging and offsets carbon emissions for all inbound production shipments, aiming for carbon-neutral shipping.
ingredients & materials
Afends emphasizes the use of organic and non-toxic materials like organic cotton and hemp, which are grown without harmful pesticides and chemicals. The brand also avoids toxic dyes and harmful substances, focusing on safe, eco-friendly production methods. However, some of their collections still include synthetics like recycled polyester, which, although better than virgin polyester, can still shed microplastics over time. Increasing transparency about the chemicals used in their dyeing processes and further minimizing synthetic fiber usage would improve their score here.
social responsibility
Afends shows some commitment to social responsibility, particularly through its transparency in disclosing partner factories and some certifications like Fair Wear Foundation membership for specific suppliers. However, the majority of their production takes place in China, and there is limited evidence that living wages are ensured throughout their entire supply chain. While they aim to partner with ethical factories, the brand could significantly improve its labor practices by committing to higher social and labor standards across the board.
certifications
Amfori BCIS Audited Factories
OEKO TEX Standard
Global Organic Textile Standard
some certifications are product specific*
learn more about these certifications
