The Best Non-Toxic Activewear: Clean, Low-Tox Workout Clothes That Perform
activewear
Pretty much all conventional activewear is made of polyester (aka, plastic) and ditching it is pretty important for your health. But switching to natural fibers? There’s a learning curve. Sweat will show, and it won’t feel like your old performance sets. For me, it’s a trade-off worth making. Less plastic, lower exposure and still getting the workout done. But, just know it's different.
some real talk
My top pick for activewear is MATE's new Organic Stretch activewear line. It's new and improved and super comfy! They use GOTS certified organic cotton, low spandex and low tox dyes to keep harmful chemicals out of the entire supply chain, while prioritizing plastic-free production. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is what I look for in organic fibers so that I know it is free from most toxic chemicals.
Mate the Label
activewear
click here to shop mate the label
other non-toxic options:
These brands are mix of those who prioritize natural fibers, less toxic materials with OEKO TEX certification and some who are better and using GOTS cotton or TENCEL in a mix with other fabrics for more conventional wear.
GOTS-Certified Options:
This brand is the "fun & a little funky" brand of the GOTS activewear seen. You can find some very cool bright & bold colors and patterns.
GOTS cotton & Texas grown cotton & some Tencel or Spandex. One of the few USA grown & made options.
These brands are using GOTS certified organic textiles for 90% or more of their product. This ensures strict limits on toxic chemicals, environmental impact, and ethical labor practices from start to finish.
Pact's activewear is 90% GOTS Cotton & 10% elastane. I personally find their leggings to be too thick, but some people love them for that! Their workout tops are great!
click to shop pact
plant dyed & gots-certified:
They have a variety of biker shorts, leggings, tanks & sports bras that are 90% or more GOTS organic cotton and plant dyed.
Just released a "Move Naturally" line of activewear and their racerback bra is so great! Some items are pre-order. GOTS Organic cotton & plant dyed.
The "vote with your dollar" brands are using plant dyes, including some made from food waste, to avoid synthetic dye chemicals, in addition to GOTS certified organic cotton.
These are some of the CUTEST organic cotton activewear pieces around. The lack of GOTS certification is the only thing keeping it off my favorites list. Huge fan.
All wear has a GOTS Organic Cotton active wear line and their fleece workout shorts are a favorite of mine. They do sell a bamboo blend line that is OEKO-TEX certified, so "better" for those who like the feel of bamboo.
USE CODE WENDY FOR 10% OFF
Tripulse is like "Lululemon got clean". Luxury priced workout gear made of 86% TENCEL & 14% recycled elastane, but OEKO TEX certified.
Their blend of organic cotton & hemp and great cuts and colors have made them a fan favorite. The only thing missing is that GOTS certification. But everything is cut and sewn in CA.
Their Aspen leggings are 93% TENCEL and very popular and well loved among the athleisure crowd.
What's in Wendy's Closet?
sneak peek
I ALMOST EXCLUSIVELY WORKOUT IN THIS TANK. IT COMES IN A TON OF COLORS & IT HOLDS UP WELL!
Shop my JUNGMAVEN tank →
mate seriously upgraded their active wear with their organic stretch line & own multiple pieces
Shop organic stretch by MATE →
these 100% GOTS Cotton fleece shorts are a favorite. i love long hikes in them,
Shop my allwear fleece shorts →
i can't express my love for these biker shorts enough. 92% organic cotton & plant dyed
Shop my favorite Groceries biker shorts →
