Let’s be real: what you wear to move shouldn't mess with your hormones.
Most mainstream activewear is made with synthetic fabrics, toxic dyes, PFAS (aka “forever chemicals”), and chemical finishes that linger in your body long after your sweat session is over. But it doesn't have to be that way.
If you’re committed to living a low-tox lifestyle, from what’s in your food to what’s in your skincare, it’s time to think about what’s on your skin too. Your largest organ absorbs more than you think, especially when your pores are wide open mid-sweat.
Here is my take on “non toxic activewear” that I’ve learned. I used to personally sit in my activewear all day which of course is “toxic” by crunchy terms but tight clothing also constricts lymph which is very important for detoxification. On the other hand, I have some non-negotiables for my exercise experience: it needs to be cute/stylish, moisture wicking and needs to have proper compression and stretch especially for running and HIIT.
The issue I come into with many “non toxic brands” is that most are limited in colors and styles (to my standard), they don’t contain any chemicals or fabrics that help to keep you dry so you sweat right through it and since they're made with majority natural fiber the stretch and compression is limited.
So for me personally these are all brands I would wear for walks or just athleisure vs doing my workouts in but everyone is free to wear them however they want! My standards are my own.
Here are 16 activewear brands making clean movement possible without the endocrine disruptors (in no particular order):
1. Mate the Label
Non-toxic. Organic. Ethically made.
Mate leads the clean fashion movement with GOTS-certified organic cotton, plant-based dyes, and a strict no-toxins policy (no PFAS, no microplastics, no greenwashing). Their minimalist sets and loungewear are perfect for low-impact workouts and everyday movement.
2. Namarie
Blends innovation with nature's wisdom, focused on going towards goodness.
Their Sylvendel® fabric is made from 91% hemp and 9% bio-based elastane (made from corn). We've created a non-toxic, plant-based performance fabric inspired by elvish craftsmanship.
3. Lezat
Fashion-forward and sustainable.
They use GOTS certified organic cotton and biobased spandex
4. Groceries Apparel
Food-grade dyes and zero toxins.
Yes, you read that right- Groceries gathers discarded avocado waste from local grocers and turn them into dyes. Their organic cotton-based active sets and basics are as pure as they come, made in California with full transparency.
5. Jungmaven
The OG hemp brand.
If you love breathable, body-neutral pieces with a chill West Coast vibe, Jungmaven’s hemp-based line is where it’s at. Hemp is naturally antimicrobial, biodegradable, and low-impact, making it one of the most sustainable fabrics available.
6. Indigo Luna
Slow fashion meets sacred movement.
With earthy tones and an ultra-grounded aesthetic, Indigo Luna’s bamboo and organic cotton pieces are handmade in Bali using plant-based dyes. Their non athletic clothing is also beautiful.
7. Pact
Affordable organic basics.
Pact makes organic cotton activewear, underwear, and basics that are GOTS-certified and fair trade. They’re a great starter brand for anyone transitioning to cleaner clothes without breaking the bank.
8. Quince
Luxury quality, low-toxic price.
Quince offers GOTS-certified organic cotton leggings, tanks, and athleisure staples with OEKO-TEX® certified dyes. Their pieces are versatile enough for errands, lounging, or a light workout. I also get my linens from here.
9. Live The Process
Luxury wellnesswear with a mindful twist.
This fashion-forward brand blends spirituality and science in its design. Their fabrics are often made with recycled or organic materials and dyed with eco-certified methods. Ideal for Pilates, barre, or slow flows.
10. Aktiiv Wear
Performance wear with a purpose.
Aktiiv uses clean, recycled, and biodegradable fabrics with minimal waste. They’re passionate about reducing the toxic load in workout clothes while maintaining performance and functionality.
11. Branwyn
Merino magic for movement.
Branwyn makes functional bras and underwear using ethically sourced, superfine merino wool: naturally antimicrobial, moisture-wicking, and biodegradable. No synthetics, no chemicals.
12. Boody
Bamboo basics done right.
Boody uses organically grown bamboo in their bras, leggings, socks, and tees. Their entire process is OEKO-TEX certified, meaning no harmful chemicals on your skin or in the environment.
13. Studio K
Minimalist, mindful, and made to last.
With small-batch releases and organic cotton fabrics, Studio K makes pieces that feel like second skin. They focus on non-toxic dyes and slow fashion ethics throughout their supply chain.
14. Happy Earth
Wear your values.
Certified B Corp. Climate neutral. Organic. They use organic cotton and elastane!
15. Allwear
Your new go-to for everyday motion.
Allwear crafts athleticwear from compostable and recycled materials without PFAS, phthalates, or formaldehyde. They use OEKO-TEK certified bamboo.
16. Paka
Plant-powered performance.
Pakaa uses natural fibers like alpaca fiber, designed for both functionality and flow. They make great outdoor activewear for hiking and cooler temperatures as well as basics for men and women.
17. Glas active
Polyester free with great stretch
They use HumanMovement™ Fabric which is a combo ofTanboocel Bamboo, Organic Cotton & a small amount of elastane.
18. Losano
Skin friendly & BPA free
They use HumanMovement™ Fabric which is a combo ofTanboocel Bamboo, Organic Cotton & a small amount of elastane.
Final Thoughts:
Do what’s best for you and what makes sense for your budget and type of exercise. I personally have been swapping out my “everyday clothing” for natural fiber clothing to reduce my exposure to plastics while limiting my time in entirely plastic activewear to just the 45 min I exercise. This has been a good balance for me since I take so many other things seriously in my life. I encourage everyone to find their balance and not stress over every minute detail to toxin exposure - we are all doing the best we can!
