Non-Toxic Workout Clothes for Stress-Free Performance
From breathable leggings to supportive sports bras, activewear is something many of us wear every day—and not just to the gym. But what you may not know is that many mainstream workout clothes are made with synthetic fabrics that shed microplastics and chemical finishes that can release harmful substances over time. Think PFAS, BPA, and other toxins that don’t exactly belong on your skin, especially when you’re sweating.
That’s where non-toxic workout clothes come in. These brands use safer, more sustainable materials and steer clear of harmful dyes, finishes, and chemical treatments. Whether you’re a yogi, weightlifter, or just love a good athleisure moment, switching to non-toxic gear is a small change that can have a big impact.
What Are “Non-Toxic” Workout Clothes?
Non-toxic workout clothes are activewear made without harmful chemicals or synthetic finishes that can leach into your skin or the environment. That means avoiding things like PFAS (a.k.a. “forever chemicals”), BPA-laced plastics, formaldehyde, and toxic dyes found in conventional activewear.
And common sportswear materials like polyester and nylon aren’t just resource-intensive to produce; they also shed microplastics with every wash. Instead, non-toxic options prioritize natural or certified-safe materials like organic cotton, bamboo, hemp, and plant-based performance fabrics.
Why make the switch? For one, your skin is your largest organ, and it’s especially absorbent when you’re hot and sweaty. Choosing safer fabrics reduces your exposure to potentially harmful substances.
As a bonus, these garments tend to be more sustainable, biodegradable, and gentle on sensitive skin. They may even last longer thanks to thoughtful construction and breathable, high-quality fibers.
Top 5 Non-Toxic Workout Clothes: How We Chose
To narrow down our favorite non-toxic activewear brands, we looked for companies that prioritize health, sustainability, and transparency. That means using organic or OEKO-TEX certified materials, avoiding toxic dyes, and maintaining ethical manufacturing processes.
We also considered how well their clothes perform in real-world workouts: Are they breathable? Comfortable? Durable? We also made sure to include brands with inclusive sizing, stylish designs, and third-party certifications to back up their claims.
Our Picks
All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author and DGHQ editors. However, Do Good HQ may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.
1. Tripulse
| Certifications | EU Ecolabel, FSC, PEFC, OEKO-TEX, REACH |
| Materials | TENCEL Lyocell, Roica® V550 (a more eco-friendly type of elastane) |
Tripulse offers high-performance activewear crafted entirely from natural, non-toxic fabrics. Their pieces are made primarily from TENCEL Lyocell—a sustainable fiber derived from eucalyptus—and enhanced with biodegradable Roica for stretch. Designed in Sweden and ethically produced in Europe, Tripulse prioritizes skin health, environmental wellness, and superior comfort.
Highlights
The TENCEL collection is OEKO-TEX® certified, comfortable, and built to perform. The premium plant-based fabric is breathable, odor-resistant, and biodegradable to boot. They also feature thoughtful designs with pockets, high-waist fits, and squat-proof leggings.
Things to Consider
Premium materials and European manufacturing mean a higher price compared to mass-market activewear.
2. Happy Earth Organic Activewear
| Certifications | B-Corp, Climate Neutral Certified |
| Materials | Organic cotton, elastane |
Happy Earth makes organic cotton activewear that really lives up to its name—designed with both your body and the planet in mind. Their activewear collection is made from organic cotton and produced in Fair Trade-certified facilities. That means no pesticides, no toxic dyes, and no sketchy labor practices; just soft, breathable gear that’s perfect for everything from the yoga studio to lounging on the couch.
Highlights
The brand proudly stands by its Earth-forward mission. Every purchase helps fund trash cleanup, reforestation, or carbon offset projects. Their clothing is also vegan and cruelty-free.
Things to Consider
While cotton may be comfy, it doesn’t offer the same stretch or moisture-wicking performance as synthetic fabrics.
3. MOVE by MATE
| Certifications | GOTS, B-Corp, Climate Neutral Certified |
| Materials | Organic cotton, spandex |
MATE’s activewear line brings non-toxic comfort to your fitness routine. Crafted from GOTS-certified organic cotton and just a touch of spandex, each piece is free of polyester, nylon, PFAS, microplastics, and toxic dyes. Designed and produced with a clean conscience, these clothes are ideal for low- to medium-impact routines, such as yoga, walking, and everyday errands.
Highlights
The brand is proudly plastic-free, with no plastic labels or packaging. They also run a garment recycling program, so you can give your clothes a new life once you’re ready to move on.
Things to Consider
Some users report sizing inconsistencies, so it’s best to double-check the size chart before buying.
4. Allwear
| Certifications | OEKO-TEX, Organic Content Standard, GOTS |
| Materials | Organic cotton, elastane |
Allwear offers non-toxic essentials designed for real life—from workouts to running errands. Based in California, every piece is crafted from natural, OEKO-TEX and GOTS-certified fabrics, including organic cotton and their proprietary Tanboocel bamboo blend. Free from polyester and nylon, Allwear features just 5–8% BPA-free elastane for stretch and uses non-toxic, azo-free dyes. Their wide size range, inclusive design, and sustainable mindset make them a solid choice for conscious consumers.
Highlights
Allwear’s bamboo and cotton blends offer natural breathability, moisture-wicking performance, and temperature regulation with a soft, stretchy feel.
Things to Consider
While they aren’t the most expensive brand on our list, high-quality, certified fabrics come at a higher price. Allwear is priced similarly to other boutique brands, but it isn’t the most affordable option for everyone.
5. Quince Activewear
| Certifications | OEKO-TEX, WRAP |
| Material | Non-toxic nylon, polyester, spandex |
Quince delivers affordable activewear with a sustainability spin—think clean design without the premium price tag. Their workout line is crafted from OEKO‑TEX-certified fabrics (ensuring no harmful chemicals) and built in WRAP‑certified factories, so you’re avoiding common toxins while supporting ethical labor practices.
Many pieces use recycled polyester and spandex blends, offering moisture-wicking, quick-dry, and antimicrobial performance, while still undercutting big-name brands.
Highlights
Quince offers athletic wear made from high-performance fabrics, without the high-performance price. OEKO-TEX certification also means that while they may use recycled synthetics, they are safe and clear of harmful substances.
Things to Consider
While we love that the materials are recycled, polyester and nylon can still shed microplastics in the wash.
How to Choose the Best Non-Toxic Workout Clothes for You
If you’re here, you’re probably in the market for non-toxic activewear. Here are some things to keep in mind as you shop:
- Look for safer materials: Aim for cotton, bamboo, hemp, or plant-based performance materials like TENCEL. If synthetic blends are used, look to the certifications to tell if it’s safe.
- Check for certifications: GOTS, OEKO-TEX, and bluesign labels mean that the fabric has been tested for harmful substances and produced responsibly.
- Consider performance needs: Make sure the fabric is breathable, moisture-wicking, and stretchy enough for your activity level. Who needs yoga pants that can’t keep up with their flow?
- Don’t forget comfort: Even the safest fabric won’t help if the clothes don’t move with you. Look for thoughtfully designed clothes that suit your body and lifestyle.
Choosing non-toxic workout clothes is a smart way to support your health, your workouts, and the planet, all at once. Whether you’re just swapping in a few better basics or revamping your whole gym look, these brands are a great place to start!
Featured image via Happy Earth
