Frequently Asked Questions
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Everything you need to know about our bamboo activewear, sizing, shipping, returns, and more. If you can't find your answer here, our team is just an email away.
Bamboo Fabric & Material
What makes bamboo different
Q What does bamboo activewear feel like?
Bamboo activewear feels buttery soft and smooth against the skin - similar to a blend of silk and cashmere. It's noticeably softer than synthetic fabrics like nylon or polyester. Our bamboo fabric has a natural stretch and a lightweight, breathable feel that moulds to your body over the first few wears, becoming more comfortable with every session.
Q Is bamboo activewear good for sensitive skin?
Absolutely, bamboo is one of the best fabrics for sensitive skin. It's naturally hypoallergenic and contains no synthetic chemicals or irritants, making it suitable for people with eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, or general skin sensitivity. All Active by GS fabrics are Oeko-Tex certified, meaning they've been independently tested and confirmed free of over 100 harmful substances.
Q Is bamboo activewear antibacterial?
Yes. Bamboo has natural antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of odour-causing bacteria on the fabric. This means your activewear stays fresher for longer between washes compared to synthetic alternatives. It's one of the reasons bamboo is increasingly preferred for high-intensity workouts and hot climates.
Q Does bamboo activewear smell less than synthetic workout clothes?
Significantly less. Synthetic fabrics like polyester tend to trap odour-causing bacteria in their fibres, which is why they can develop a persistent smell over time. Bamboo's natural antimicrobial properties actively resist bacterial growth, keeping your activewear smelling fresher even through intense workouts in heat and humidity.
Q How does bamboo compare to synthetic activewear?
Bamboo outperforms synthetic fabrics in several areas. It's softer on skin, naturally antibacterial, more breathable, thermoregulating (cool in summer, warm in winter), hypoallergenic, and biodegradable. Synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester are petroleum-based, tend to trap heat and odour, and shed microplastics into waterways during washing. Bamboo offers high-performance activewear without those environmental and comfort trade-offs.
Q How does bamboo compare to cotton for working out?
Bamboo is superior to cotton for active use. While cotton absorbs sweat and stays wet (becoming heavy and clingy), bamboo wicks moisture away from your skin and dries faster, keeping you cool and dry during exercise. Bamboo also has natural stretch and recovery that cotton lacks, so it moves with your body rather than losing shape over time.
Q Is bamboo fabric breathable?
Very. Bamboo fabric is naturally thermoregulating, it has micro-gaps in its fibre structure that allow air to circulate and moisture to evaporate quickly. This makes it cooler than synthetic fabrics in warm weather and surprisingly insulating in cooler conditions. It's an excellent choice for both indoor training and outdoor exercise in the Australian climate.
Q Is bamboo activewear eco-friendly?
Yes. Bamboo is one of the most sustainable fibres available. It grows rapidly without pesticides or fertilisers, requires significantly less water than cotton, and is naturally biodegradable at end of life. At Active by GS, we take this further by sourcing only from GOTS-certified and FairTrade-certified manufacturers, ensuring responsible production at every stage.
Q How do you choose what materials to use?
Through years of designing, sourcing, testing, and producing quality pieces, we've narrowed it down to high-quality bamboo and organic cotton. But our research never stops, we're always testing new materials that meet our standards for performance, skin safety, and environmental impact. Every material we use is assessed for availability, preferred fibre content, water and energy input, emissions, and its overall impact on people and the planet.
Product & Performance
What you can expect from our activewear
Q Are your leggings suitable for high-intensity workouts?
Yes. Our leggings are designed for flexibility, breathability, and moisture-wicking performance. With four-way stretch, supportive compression fit, and a high-rise waistband that stays in place, they're built for everything from yoga and pilates to gym sessions and high-intensity interval training.
Q Are your leggings true to size?
Most of our leggings are true to size. We recommend choosing your size based on how you like your leggings to fit. Stick with your usual size for a supportive, sculpting fit, or size up if you prefer a little extra comfort around the waist.
Fit note: For optimal sheer-proof performance, we recommend selecting your true size rather than sizing down. Overly tight fit on any legging can reduce opacity.
Q Do your leggings have pockets?
Several of our styles include a side phone pocket designed to hold standard-sized smartphones securely during movement. Check the product description on each item page, pocket availability is listed under the features section. Our Infinity Ankle Length Phone Pocket Tight is one of our most popular styles with this feature.
Q What activities are your products designed for?
Our activewear is designed for yoga, pilates, gym training, running, cycling, hiking, walking, and everyday active wear. The bamboo fabric's natural stretch, breathability, and compression support make it versatile enough for both high-intensity exercise and rest-day comfort. Browse our Active Essentials for performance pieces or our Rest Day Essentials for off-duty comfort.
Q What sizes do you offer?
We offer inclusive sizing from XS through to 3XL across our full range. We believe that high-quality, sustainable activewear should be accessible to every body. View our full Size Guide for detailed measurements.
Sizing & Fit
Finding your perfect fit
Q Do your leggings run true to size?
Our leggings feature compression technology, so they fit snugly by design. The bamboo fabric naturally stretches and moulds to your body shape over the first few wears , what feels snug initially often becomes the perfect fit. If you prefer a more relaxed feel or are between sizes, we recommend sizing up. If you prefer firm compression support, stay true to size.
Q What size should I buy if I'm between sizes?
If you're between sizes, we generally recommend sizing up. Especially leggings, if they are too snug they may feel see-through. Our compression fit means the garment will still feel supportive in the larger size too, while giving you a more comfortable range of movement. If you're unsure, email our fit team at hello@activebygs.com with your usual size in other brands and we'll personally recommend the right size.
Q What's the difference between compression fit and regular fit?
Compression fit is a snug, supportive fit that gently hugs your body and provides muscle support during activity. Regular fit sits more loosely against the body. Most Active by GS leggings, shorts, and sports bras use a moderate compression fit, while our singlets, tees, and rest-day pieces have a more relaxed fit.
Q Where can I find your size guide?
Our detailed Size Guide includes body measurements (bust, waist, hips) for each size from XS to 3XL. You'll also find product-specific fit notes on each product page. If the size guide doesn't quite answer your question, email hello@activebygs.com.
Q I'm not sure which size to order. Can you help?
Absolutely. Email our fit team at hello@activebygs.com and tell us your usual size in other activewear brands, your height, and what you'll mainly use the piece for. We'll personally recommend the right size. Our bamboo fabric behaves differently to synthetic activewear, so a little expert guidance goes a long way.
Sun Protection & UPF
Protection built into every fibre
Q What does UPF 50+ mean in activewear?
UPF 50+ means the fabric blocks at least 98% of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, both UVA and UVB rays. UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. A UPF 50+ rating is the highest achievable and is recommended by the Cancer Council Australia for effective sun protection.
Q Do I still need sunscreen if I'm wearing UPF 50+ clothing?
We still recommend wearing sunscreen as you normally would as it is extremely important to be careful. UPF 50+ clothing protects the skin it covers, but any exposed skin still needs sunscreen (and we also recommend doubling up on sunscreen for all areas for extra protection). For outdoor activities, we recommend combining UPF 50+ activewear with sunscreen on exposed areas, a hat, and sunglasses for comprehensive protection.
Q Does the UPF protection last after washing?
Yes. The UV protection in our bamboo fabric is inherent to the fibre structure, not a chemical coating that washes off. The UPF 50+ rating remains effective throughout the life of the garment, wash after wash, as long as the fabric is in good condition.
Q Is bamboo fabric naturally UV protective?
Yes. Bamboo fibre has natural UV-blocking properties due to its dense fibre structure. When woven into activewear-weight fabric, bamboo naturally achieves high UPF ratings without chemical UV treatments. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor activewear in Australia's high-UV environment.
Care & Longevity
Making your pieces last
Q How should I wash bamboo activewear?
Wash on a cold, gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Turn garments inside out before washing to protect the outer surface. Avoid bleach and harsh detergents. Wash with similar colours and avoid overloading the machine to reduce friction and pilling.
Q Can I put bamboo activewear in the dryer?
We recommend air-drying whenever possible. Bamboo fabric dries quickly on its own, and air-drying preserves the fibre's softness, shape, and elasticity. If you do use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting. High heat can cause shrinkage and damage.
Q Should I use fabric softener on bamboo clothes?
No. Fabric softener leaves a coating on the fibres that can reduce bamboo's natural moisture-wicking and breathability. Bamboo is already one of the softest fabrics available, it doesn't need additional softening. For extra softness, add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle instead.
Q Will bamboo leggings pill?
All natural fabrics can experience some pilling with friction over time, but proper care minimises this significantly. Washing inside out on a gentle cycle, avoiding overloaded machines, and air-drying are the most effective preventative measures. If minor pilling occurs, a fabric shaver removes it easily.
Q How long do bamboo leggings last?
With proper care, our bamboo leggings are designed to last for years of regular use. The key factors are washing method (cold, gentle cycle), drying method (air-dry preferred), and general wear patterns. Many customers report their Active by GS pieces lasting well beyond conventional synthetic activewear.
Ordering & Payment
Placing your order
Q What payment methods do you accept?
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, PayPal, Afterpay, Shop Pay, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Union Pay. All transactions are processed securely through our encrypted payment system.
Q How do I use a discount code?
Discount codes are applied at checkout. After adding items to your cart, proceed to the Information step (Cart → Information → Shipping → Payment). You'll see a discount code box on the right-hand side. Enter your code, click apply, and the discount will be reflected in your total. Discount codes differ and sometimes don't apply to sale items or combine with other offers.
Q Can I cancel or change my order after placing it?
Email us at hello@activebygs.com as soon as possible. Our team processes orders quickly, so we can't guarantee changes once an order has left the warehouse, but we'll do our best. If the order has already shipped, you're welcome to return it under our returns policy.
Q How do I know if an item is coming back in stock?
Our items can sell out fast and we're not always able to restock every style. If something you love has sold out, email us at hello@activebygs.com and we'll let you know if and when it's expected back.
Q Do you offer gift cards?
Yes. Active by GS gift cards are available through our Gifting collection and make a thoughtful gift for anyone who values quality, sustainable activewear or athleisure wear. Gift cards are delivered digitally by email and never expire. We also have physical gift cards if you prefer a personal touch.
Q Do you offer gift wrapping?
Yes, we offer gift wrapping which can be added to your purchase. All orders arrive beautifully packaged with love and care. If you're sending a gift, you can include a personal note by adding it to the order notes field at checkout.
Shipping & Delivery
Getting your order to you
Q Do you offer free shipping in Australia?
Yes. Free standard shipping on all Australian orders over $99 AUD. Standard shipping takes 3–7 business days. Express is $14.90 (free over $250). Full details on our Shipping page.
Q How quickly are orders dispatched?
Orders placed before 12pm AEST on a business day are dispatched the same day. All other orders ship within 1–2 business days. You'll receive a confirmation email with tracking once dispatched.
Q Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we ship worldwide including New Zealand, the United States, the United Kingdom, and beyond. Shipping costs and delivery times vary by region. Visit our Shipping page for full rates.
Q Can I track my order?
Yes. Every order includes full tracking. Once dispatched, you'll receive an email with your tracking number. Track at auspost.com.au/track. If you haven't received your tracking email, check spam then contact us.
Q I entered the wrong shipping address. Can I change it?
Email hello@activebygs.com as soon as possible. If your order hasn't left the warehouse, we'll update it. If dispatched, you'll need to arrange a redirection with Australia Post. The sooner you contact us, the more likely we can help.
Q What happens with US import tariffs?
For US orders, an import tariff is automatically calculated and displayed at checkout, no hidden fees. This tariff is required by US customs and is not retained by Active by GS. If you return your order, we refund the product price, but the tariff (paid to customs) can't be refunded by us. Full details on our Shipping page.
Returns & Exchanges
Making it right
Q What is your return policy?
We offer a 30-day return policy from the date of purchase. Full-price items can be returned for a refund, exchange, or store credit. Sale items can be exchanged or returned for store credit. Items must be unworn, unwashed, and with tags attached. Faulty items are covered under Australian Consumer Law with no time limit. Read our full Returns & Exchanges policy.
Q Can I return a sale item?
Sale items can be exchanged or returned for store credit within 30 days. Refunds to your original payment method are available on full-price items only. If any item, including sale items, arrives faulty, you're always entitled to a remedy under Australian Consumer Law.
Q Who pays for return shipping?
For all change-of-mind returns (exchanges, store credit, and refunds), return shipping is covered by you. We recommend Australia Post with tracking. If you're exchanging, we ship your new item to you free, so you only pay to send the original back.
Q How do exchanges work?
Submit a request through email hello@activebygs.com. Tell us what you'd like to swap to, we'll check availability and ship your new item with free standard shipping. If it's unavailable, we'll issue store credit.
Q I received a faulty item. What should I do?
Email hello@activebygs.com with a photo of the issue and your order number. We'll respond as soon as possible with a solution, replacement, repair, or full refund. We cover return shipping on all faulty items.
Q How long do refunds take to process?
Once we receive your return, we process your refund within 5-7 business days. Refunds go back to your original payment method. For Afterpay orders, the refund goes from us to Afterpay and then back to you, remaining instalments adjust automatically.
Sustainability & Certifications
Our commitment to doing better
Q What makes Active by GS activewear sustainable?
Sustainability runs through everything we do. We use eco-conscious bamboo and cotton, partner with certified manufacturers, use compostable/recycled packaging, and choose natural fibres that biodegrade rather than shed microplastics. Our production focuses on longevity, ethical practices, and minimal environmental impact. Read more on our Sustainability page.
Q What does GOTS certified mean?
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) is the world's leading processing standard for organic fibres. It confirms that a fabric's organic status has been verified at every stage of the supply chain, and covers environmental criteria (wastewater, chemical use) and social criteria (fair wages, safe working conditions). It's one of the most rigorous textile certifications in the world.
Q What does Oeko-Tex certified mean?
Oeko-Tex Standard 100 means a fabric has been independently tested and confirmed free of over 100 harmful substances, including pesticides, heavy metals, formaldehyde, and allergenic dyes. It's a globally recognised safety standard ensuring the fabric touching your skin is free from chemicals that could cause irritation. Learn more on our Certifications page.
Q What certifications does Active by GS have?
All raw materials are sourced from GOTS, Oeko-Tex, and FairTrade certified manufacturers and suppliers, meaning our fabrics are verified organic, confirmed free of harmful chemicals, and produced under ethical labour conditions. Visit our Certifications page for full details.
Q Where are your products made?
We source and manufacture from both India and China, selecting factories that meet the highest quality and ethical standards. We partner with world-class manufacturers committed to fair practices, choosing countries that are best-in-class for the desired raw material and quality, prioritising craftsmanship and ethics over cost.
Q Is your packaging sustainable?
Yes. All orders ship in our recycled or compostable mailer bags designed to protect your items while being kinder to the planet. We minimise packaging materials and avoid single-use plastics. If you need to return an item, you can reuse the mailer, just turn it inside out and tape closed.
Q Does bamboo activewear shed microplastics?
No. Unlike synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon, bamboo is a natural fibre and does not shed plastic microfibres during washing. Choosing natural fibre activewear is one of the most effective ways to reduce your personal contribution to microplastic pollution in waterways.
About Active by GS
Who we are
Q Is Active by GS an Australian brand?
Yes. Active by GS is an Australian-owned and operated women's activewear brand based in Brisbane, Queensland. Founded by an architect with a passion for sustainable design, we specialise in bamboo and organic cotton activewear that is ethically made, certified organic, and shipped worldwide. Learn more on our About Us page.
Q Can you tell me more about Active by GS?
Active by GS was born from a belief that activewear should be good for your body and good for the planet. We create sustainable, ethical bamboo activewear for women, GOTS and Oeko-Tex certified, UPF 50+ rated, with inclusive sizing from XS to 3XL. Head to our About Us page to read our full story.
Q What does Active by GS stand for?
The brand's mission is to prove that high-performance activewear doesn't have to compromise on sustainability, skin safety, or ethics. We strive to be a positive force for the people who wear our products, the people who make them, and the planet we all share.
Q Why did you choose bamboo over other sustainable fabrics?
We are constantly researching and testing sustainable fabric that are fit for activities and active living. Bamboo is uniquely suited to activewear because it combines sustainability with genuine performance. It's naturally antibacterial, hypoallergenic, thermoregulating, moisture-wicking, UV-protective, and incredibly soft. Most sustainable fabrics excel in one or two areas, bamboo delivers them all. It also grows rapidly without pesticides, uses less water than cotton, and is biodegradable.
Contact & Collaboration
Getting in touch
Q How can I contact Active by GS?
The fastest way to reach us is by email at hello@activebygs.com. You can also DM us on Instagram @activebygs. We aim to respond within 24 hours on business days.
Q I have a media or PR enquiry
We'd love to hear from you. For media and press enquiries, please contact media@activebygs.com.
Q I'm an influencer. How can I collaborate with Active by GS?
If you're passionate about sustainable fashion, ethical living, and wellness, we'd love to hear from you. Reach out to hello@activebygs.com with details about you, your audience, and your content focus.
Q I'm interested in supplying or stocking Active by GS. Do you accept new suppliers or do you do wholesale?
Yes, we are always interested in new collaborations. For supplier, wholesale or stockist enquiries, please contact wholesale@activebygs.com or hello@activebygs.com
Q Do you have any career opportunities?
We're always open to hearing from talented people who share our passion. For career enquiries, email hello@activebygs.com.
Last updated: June 2026
