A Wandsworth-based entrepreneur has launched a new performance sportswear brand designed specifically for women in racket sports, offering a plastic-free alternative to conventional athletic clothing.
Underscored, a London-based label, has been developed to meet the physical demands of tennis, padel and squash while removing synthetic fibres and chemical finishes typically used in sportswear manufacturing.
The brand has been designed and tested locally, working closely with women from clubs across South London to ensure garments support natural movement, comfort and high-performance activity.
Founder Stuart Saunders said the idea behind the brand was to challenge the assumption that high-performance sportswear must rely on plastics and chemical treatments.
He said:
“Underscored was created because women deserve sportswear that supports their performance without compromising their health or the planet. We are proving you can get the comfort and movement you need without plastics or chemical shortcuts. London has an incredible community of active females, and we are proud to build a brand that reflects their values and ambitions.”
Unlike mainstream sportswear brands, Underscored products contain no polyester, nylon or elastane — materials known to shed microplastics, require energy-intensive processing and persist in the environment for decades.
Instead of relying on chemical coatings for stretch, moisture-wicking or odour control, the brand uses fibre innovation and fabric engineering to build performance directly into the material. This ensures durability and consistent performance that does not degrade over time or wash into waterways.
The garments are specifically tailored for racket sports, with a focus on supporting lateral movement, acceleration and repeated high-intensity effort, rather than general athleisure use.
Underscored has launched with two initial products — the Women’s Ashdown T-Shirt and Women’s Ashdown Tank — produced in limited quantities. Both items are made from plant-based fibres including TENCEL™ Lyocell and SeaCell, forming part of the company’s proprietary plastic-free fabric blend.
The brand is also positioning itself within a wider sustainability movement, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of textile production and consumption.
According to the company, London generates thousands of tonnes of synthetic textile waste each year, much of which ends up in landfill or incineration. By eliminating plastics entirely, Underscored aims to reduce microplastic pollution and offer a longer-lasting, lower-impact alternative.
Its sustainability commitments include using fibres sourced from certified suppliers, low-impact dyeing processes and designing garments for longevity and circular use. The company also reports zero use of toxic chemical finishes and no microplastic shedding from its products.
Underscored is a member of the 1% for the Planet initiative and holds Climate Label Certification, reflecting its environmental credentials.
The launch comes at a time when racket sports such as tennis and padel are growing rapidly across London, alongside increasing consumer demand for more responsible and health-conscious sportswear.
As part of a new wave of London-based innovators, Underscored is seeking to redefine performance apparel by combining technical function with environmental responsibility — all while keeping its design and development rooted in the local community.
