14 Non-Toxic Activewear Brands You’ll Love
What if I told you cute, non-toxic activewear actually exists — would you believe me?
Most people picture baggy cotton t-shirts and 90s cropped joggers, but that couldn’t be further from the truth anymore. These days, there are so many non-toxic activewear brands creating pieces that look just as good as they feel, so you can enjoy your workout and love what you’re wearing.
My Favourite’s (In a nutshell)
- Best for everyday: Layere
- Best all around: Mate the Label
- Best for yoga: Indigo Luna
- Best for high-impact: Tripulse
- Best for outdoor: Icebreaker
- Best pilates socks: Fraise
Why Activewear Materials Matter
Most conventional activewear is made from synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and spandex. These materials are popular because they’re stretchy, moisture-wicking, and durable — but they’re also often treated with chemical finishes, dyes, and odour-resistant coatings (which, ironically, still start to stink over time).
When you’re working out, your pores open and you sweat, which means whatever is sitting against your skin matters more than you might think. Non-toxic fabrics are breathable, gentle, and free of harsh chemical residues. Think of it as wearing something safer and kinder to your skin — without giving up style or comfort.
Most clothes, even “soft” cotton or stretchy synthetics, are treated with chemicals during manufacturing, dyeing, or finishing to make them durable, stretchy, water-resistant, or colourful.
Here are a few common chemicals that might be hiding in your activewear:
- Flame retardants (PBDEs) – Added to some fabrics to reduce fire risk. They can stay in clothing and may affect hormone balance over time.
- Perfluorinated chemicals (PFAS) – Used to make clothes water- or stain-resistant. They’re sometimes called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily and can accumulate in the body.
- Azo dyes & heavy metals (like cadmium or lead) – Used for bright colors. Some dyes can break down into chemicals linked to skin irritation or allergies.
- Alkylphenols & chlorinated solvents – Used in processing or cleaning fabrics. These chemicals can interfere with hormones and, in some cases, affect liver or nervous system health.
Even natural fibers like cotton can carry residues from pesticides, dyes, or finishing treatments. The good news? Choosing organic, non-toxic, and certified fabrics helps minimize exposure so you can focus on your workout — not the chemicals in your clothes.
What Make Activewear “Non-Toxic”?
Non-toxic activewear isn’t a trend; it’s about being intentional with what touches your skin. For this post, I focused on brands that:
- Use safer materials: Organic cotton, hemp, TENCEL™, or responsibly sourced merino wool. These fabrics are softer, breathable, and made with fewer chemicals.
- Have legit certifications: GOTS, OEKO-TEX®, Cradle to Cradle, or bluesign® labels are a good sign the brand is serious about safety and sustainability.
- Stay transparent: Brands that tell you what dyes, finishes, or synthetic blends they use are the ones I trust most.
- Balance performance with safety: Some activewear needs a little stretch to work — that’s okay, as long as the chemicals are minimized and the production is responsible.
No brand is perfect, and non-toxic doesn’t automatically mean “miracle leggings.” But the companies I’m sharing here are clearly trying to make safer, functional, and cute activewear that you’ll actually want to wear.
What to Expect From Non-Toxic Activewear
Before you switch to non-toxic activewear there are a few things you should keep in mind.
It’s worth mentioning that non-toxic activewear can feel a little different than traditional performance gear. Some pieces may be less compressive, slightly thicker, or not quite as “slick” as polyester leggings — but many people find them more breathable and comfortable for everyday movement, yoga, walking, Pilates, and light workouts.
Also, some non-toxic activewear pieces may be more expensive than activewear you’d find at your local department stores and that’s simply because it costs more to create quality pieces. Hate to say it but it doesn’t cost a lot to create plastic leggings… (and companies are then selling them hundreds of dollars).
Top 14 Non-Toxic Activewear Brands
With all that in mind, here are some of the best non-toxic activewear brands that balance safer materials with cute, wearable designs — so you don’t have to choose between feeling good and looking good.
1. Layere
Layere is a relatively new brand that I stumbled across on Instagram. Designed by a fellow non-toxic girly, these pieces are seriously some of the cutest organic cotton active wear sets I’ve seen yet. The use only high‑grade organic cotton with minimal spandex for stretch and are finished without toxic dyes or PFAS repellents.
They only do intentional, small-batch drops and each time the collections have sold it in less than ten minutes!
I love everything about this brand – what they stand for, their strict material standards, transparency and the fact that their pieces are so darn cute. My only con? I don’t have my hands on a pair! (Yet!)
- Best for: Soft, non‑toxic workout basics & everyday athleisure
- Materials: 95% organic cotton, 5% spandex
- Certifications: Organic cotton sourced from GOTS‑certified mills; low‑impact dyes (no harsh chemical finishes)
- Price range: $$ – $$$
MATE the Label
Mate the Label is a popular brand that makes activewear that feels luxurious without feeling high-maintenance.
Their pieces are soft, lightweight, and super breathable — ideal for yoga, Pilates, or just cozying up at home. Plus, they’re super transparent about every step in their production process.
They have a wide range of activewear and loungewear, including fun colours!
- Best for: Yoga, lounging, and low-impact workouts
- Materials: GOTS-certified organic cotton, low-elastane blends
- Certifications: GOTS, OEKO-TEX®, Climate Neutral, B Corp certified
- Price range: $$ – $$$
Pact
Pact is a great entry point if you’re dipping your toes into non-toxic activewear. Their leggings, tops, and bras are comfy, simple, and budget-friendly.
They focus on ethical sourcing and sustainable fabrics, so you can feel good about your purchase.
They don’t have a designated ‘activewear’ collection, but they’re leggings and tops work well for low-impact activities.
- Best for: Affordable, everyday active basics
- Materials: GOTS-certified organic cotton, small elastane blends
- Certifications: GOTS, Fair Trade Certified, OEKO-TEX®
- Price range: $ – $$
Indigo Luna
If vibe matters as much as comfort, Indigo Luna is perfect. Their pieces feel warm, cozy, and a little nostalgic (in the best way).
Think airy fabrics that move with you — perfect for gentle movement, stretching, or chilled‑out days where comfort is key.
If you’re all about yoga, pilates and low-impact movement, this is a great option for you.
- Best for: Earthy, boho‑inspired active and lounge wear
- Materials: Organic cotton, linen, natural fibers
- Certifications: GOTS, OEKO‑TEX® (on many pieces)
- Price range: $$ – $$$
JungMaven
JungMaven combines a laid-back, California vibe with eco-conscious fabrics. They’re all about hemp!
Their hemp blends are breathable, soft, and naturally antimicrobial — great for those who want something low-maintenance and sustainable for everyday wear.
- Best for: Eco-friendly casual activewear and lounge
- Materials: Hemp-cotton blends, organic cotton
- Certifications: OEKO-TEX® Standard 100
- Price range: $$ – $$$
Reprise
Reprise’s focus is simple: soft, versatile pieces you’ll reach for over and over.
Their leggings and tops are comfy, breathable, and gentle on skin, making them perfect for yoga, Pilates, or casual layering.
- Best for: Yoga, light workouts, and ethical basics
- Materials: TENCEL™ Lyocell, organic cotton, bamboo blends
- Certifications: GOTS, OEKO-TEX®
- Price range: $$ – $$$
Tripulse
Tripulse is designed for people who sweat and move.
Their high-performance leggings and sports bras are made with recycled fabrics and feel supportive without digging in. Ideal for gym sessions, spin, or HIIT.
- Best for: High-impact workouts and studio classes
- Materials: Recycled polyester, spandex
- Certifications: OEKO-TEX®
- Price range: $$ – $$$
Happy Earth
Happy Earth keeps things simple, soft, and ethical.
Their pieces are breathable, cozy, and perfect for yoga, stretching, or lounging. This is a great brand for anyone just starting to explore non-toxic activewear.
- Best for: Low-impact workouts and eco-loungewear
- Materials: Organic cotton, bamboo, natural fiber blends
- Certifications: B Corp certified, Fair Trade, OEKO-TEX®
- Price range: $ – $$
Aktiiv
Aktiiv blends clean design with performance fabrics. Their pieces are sleek, supportive, and versatile — perfect for workouts that go from studio to street.
Their sustainable fabrics make them a non-toxic choice you’ll actually want to wear.
- Best for: Modern, minimalist high-performance sets
- Materials: Recycled polyester, organic cotton blends, elastane
- Certifications: OEKO-TEX®
- Price range: $$ – $$$
Icebreaker
Icebreaker is a go‑to if you want performance that feels natural.
Their merino wool pieces are breathable, soft against skin, and naturally resist odour — perfect for hikes, outdoor workouts, or cooler seasons. The fabrics are eco‑friendly and feel luxe without being delicate.
- Best for: Outdoor workouts, hiking, trail runs, cooler-weather layers
- Materials: Merino wool (natural, breathable, odor-resistant)
- Certifications: Woolmark, RWS (Responsible Wool Standard)
- Price range: $$$ – $$$$
Wellicious
Wellicious blends comfort with a bit of effortless style. Their pieces are soft, breathable, and perfect for low‑impact days like yoga, pilates, or just running errands.
They lean into classic cuts and cozy fabrics, so you’ll feel good without overthinking your outfit.
- Best for: Everyday wear, gentle activity, lifestyle pieces
- Materials: GOTS‑certified organic cotton blended with biodegradable elastane
- Certifications: Cradle to Cradle Certified® Gold with Platinum Material Health
- Price range: $$ – $$$
Groceries Apparel
Groceries Apparel hits that sweet spot between cute and conscious.
Their organic cotton basics are soft, sustainable, and super wearable — great for walks, light workouts, or just lounging in pieces you don’t want to take off. They also focus on inclusive sizing, which is a total win.
- Best for: Casual activewear and everyday basics
- Materials: Organic cotton, recycled cotton blends
- Certifications: GOTS, OCS (Organic Content Standard)
- Price range: $$ – $$$
Pangaia
Pangaia isn’t just cute — it’s tech-forward too. They experiment with sustainable fibers like seaweed and recycled plastics, creating pieces that are as eye-catching as they are responsible.
They use plant‑based fibers like EVO® Nylon made from renewable sources (e.g., castor beans and corn) and regen™ BIO Max elastane with a much lower environmental footprint than conventional spandex.
- Best for: Statement pieces with innovative materials
- Materials: Bio‑based EVO® Nylon (plant‑derived), regen™ BIO Max elastane (98% renewable)
- Certifications: Bio‑based fibers with lower carbon footprint (material science focus)
- Price range: $$$ – $$$$
Fraise
Fraise makes cult‑favorite grip socks that feel soft, breathable, and practical. Their silver‑infused fibers help naturally resist odour and bacteria — ace if you’re tired of sweaty, smelly socks after class.
These are perfect for yoga, barre, Pilates, or anytime you want traction without slipping, all while keeping things non‑toxic and comfy.
- Best for: Grip socks for yoga, barre, Pilates, and floor work
- Materials: 75% combed organic cotton, 20% recycled polyester, 5% spandex, silver‑infused fibers for natural antimicrobial protection
- Certifications: OEKO‑TEX®
- Price range: $$
Not all low-tox activewear brands are the same — some are built for performance, others for comfort, and a few are just great all‑around wardrobe pieces. The brands above let you mix and match based on how you like to move, your favourite activities and what you’re looking for.
If You’re New to Non-Toxic Activewear…
If you’re just starting out, you don’t need to replace your entire workout wardrobe at once. Swapping in one or two pieces — like a supportive top or everyday leggings — is a great place to start. I’ve just made my first low-tox workout wear swap, just take it slow!
At the end of the day, movement should feel good — and what you wear plays a role in that. Whether you’re slowly transitioning to non-toxic pieces or just curious about better options, these brands prove that safer activewear doesn’t have to be boring or frumpy.
