9 Ethical & Sustainable Activewear Brands For 2024
The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.
I personally tested and researched dozens of sustainable activewear brands — these are my top picks for performance and durability.
Activewear has to tick a lot of boxes. We want it to motivate us to get our body moving, while also making us feel and look good! We want our leggings and sports bras to be supportive, while also being transitional for both working out and everyday life. It can be challenging to find quality, conscious workout clothes that will outlast squats, sprints, and all the Saturdays (and Sundays) we’re sleeping in.
To help you narrow in on your dream activewear wardrobe, our editor put some of the top conscious brands to the test. And it’s not just quality we’ve vetted, either. These athleticwear brands check all the boxes on our wish list — from sustainable materials and manufacturing practices to affordability and inclusive styles and size ranges.
Many of these athletic clothing collections are made with fair trade and ethical labor practices and include natural and recycled fabrics. For high-performance activewear that prioritizes your comfort, your workouts, and the planet, look no further.
Why is sustainable activewear important?
The skin is our largest organ. It absorbs what we put on it and this includes what we wear. Consider your skin during a workout: The pores are open, sweat is flowing, all making it even more possible to absorb toxins. Unfortunately, commonly used synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and spandex are often made with petrochemicals and treated with chemicals called PFAS. While PFAS are toxic, they are moisture-wicking — which means most of the workout clothes on the market include them.
Fabrics that contain PFAS shed microplastics that can transfer into our skin and also into our water supply during washing. That’s not to mention the environmental impact of producing them. And these fibers are not biodegradable so if/when they end up in a landfill, they continue to pollute the earth. (This is why you may have heard PFAS referred to as “forever chemicals.”)
Wearing PFAS-laden fabrics for a long time, especially during workouts, can lead to hormone imbalance, fertility issues, organ disease, and even cancer. Our bodies and the planet deserve better. Luckily, sustainable and eco-friendly activewear exists — using naturally breathable fabrics such as organic cotton, hemp, and those made from recycled materials, these brands are creating activewear with you and the earth in mind.
Our methodology and criteria:
The Good Trade was sent 9 activewear sets for review and I personally tested them all. I’m a yoga instructor, a mom to an energetic 2.5-year-old, and a Colorado resident so I’m always on the hunt for activewear that makes me feel put together and comfortable. I wore each of these sets for yoga, mom duty, and everyday life — from walking my dog to grocery store runs. I also washed the sets to test their color and fabric changes after washing.
My notes are based on the following criteria:
- PERFORMANCE | I tested each set during my everyday workouts, like yoga and walking, taking into consideration the thickness, compression, and overall fit. I’ve noted if I felt held, comfortable, or had to adjust the clothing a lot while wearing it. I’ve also remarked on what kind of workout each set is best for.
- DURABILITY | Through multiple wears and a wash, I considered how the clothing held up after wear. I’ve noted any stretching throughout workouts, easy staining, and if the color faded or the fit changed after wash.
- SIZE-INCLUSIVE | We’ve included brands that make inclusive sizes so there’s something here for everyone.
- ETHICS | These are all thoughtful brands that give back and use sustainable manufacturing — with no PFAS in sight.
If you’re updating your full workout routine, be sure to check out our guide to the best eco-friendly yoga mats, recycled running shoes, and sustainable sweats & joggers.
1. Quince
Best For | Yoga (in cute colors!)
Size Range | XS–XL
Price Range | $24–$44
Thickness | Thin but not see-through
Coverage Level | High
When we want sustainable luxury at an affordable price point, we are heading to Quince. We love their buttery soft leggings and cropped tanks in subtle, gorgeous hues like rose and olive, or their performance skorts and dresses made from recycled fabrics. Dyed safely according to bluesign® standards and manufactured in WRAP-certified factories to ensure ethical working practices, we can feel as good as we look in these sustainable, comfy, and chic pieces.
My review | I adore this set from Quince! The Ultra-Form High-Rise Leggings in chocolate are my new go-to. Especially paired with the Ultra-Form Scoop-Neck Longline bra. This set feels smooth on my skin, it fits perfectly, and the color makes it feel elevated for everyday wear. I got both the top and bottom in size small and it’s true to size. I’ll mostly use this set for yoga since the leggings’ 4-way stretch makes them perfect for moving through flow. The top is supportive, too, and both are made with moisture-wicking fabric. My only worry is that over time the buttery softness will break down with more washes — but so far they’ve held up in the wash as long as I’m careful to air dry after a delicate cycle. Aside from that, the price point can’t be beat for a quality activewear set!
2. MATE the Label
Best For | Low-impact & everyday wear
Size Range | XS–3X
Price Range | $58–$88
Thickness | Thick
Coverage Level | High
MATE the Label is our go-to for clean, sustainable sweats, leggings, and sports bras that are just as good at the gym or on the couch. The conscious, woman-founded brand makes cozy yet functional essentials in a circular production line. We love their The MATE Eight ethos, which outlines their ethical and sustainable standards! Stock up on your year-round joggers, sweats, and more — and check out our full MATE the Label review for more info.
My review | This set from MATE is a dream come true. I got the Organic Stretch Bootcut Pant and was excited to try a bootcut activewear pant. Per the reviews, I sized up and went with a medium. They fit like a glove! Paired with the Organic Stretch One-Shoulder Tank in size small, I feel so cool wearing this set. I was a bit worried about the coverage with a one-shoulder activewear top. But it holds me in through a vigorous vinyasa flow. Walking and everyday wear will be the other ways I wear this set (I’ll have to work hard to not wear this daily!). It still amazes me that this set is almost all organic cotton — it feels thick and stretchy like spandex. I can also tell this set will grow with me over time as its fabric truly molds to the body.
3. Pact
Best For | Lounging & sensitive skin
Size Range | XS–3XL
Price Range | $40–$60
Thickness | Thick and roomy
Coverage Level | Medium
Pact imagines a world without toxic chemicals, sweatshops, or child labor — it’s the kind of world we want to live in, too. The brand’s basics are ethically made with GOTS-certified organic cotton and most pieces are certified Fair Trade. With neutral colors and affordable prices, Pact is the perfect place to stock up on all your cotton undergarments, including socks, underwear, and more. Pact leggings are especially versatile and delightfully stretchy — we’ve worn them to the airport, hangouts with friends, and under dresses and boots in the fall!
My review | I’ve turned to Pact often for underwear, bras, and maternity leggings. But, this was my first time trying on their workout clothes. I tried their On The Go-To Leggings in small and medium. Unfortunately, both sizes are too big for me. This surprised me because I’m consistently a size small or medium in workout wear. So, I’d say their leggings aren’t true to size — and they also weren’t high-rise on me (they sat a bit below my navel). When I wear yoga pants I want them to be high-waisted and hug me, so the overall fit didn’t work for my body. I paired the leggings with the On The Go-To Crop Tank trying it in both small and medium — it was the same with sizing. I would’ve liked for a tighter, more supportive fit all around. I do think the thicker cotton will make this set great for camping, and it’s also good for lounging around my house in the colder months! (We’ve taken into account that another editor wore the bootcut leggings and the same crop top and loved it for Pilates and running errands. So, a few extra points to Pact for this!)
4. Girlfriend Collective
Best For | Edgy silhouettes with compression
Size Range | XXS–6XL
Price Range | $40–$150
Thickness | Thick and supportive
Coverage Level | High
From skorts to sports bras, Girlfriend Collective has it all. And this thoughtful brand is exceptionally size-inclusive from XXS to 6XL, because every body is an active body. The fabrics are sustainable or recycled, too; for example, its best-selling Compressive Leggings are made with 25 recycled water bottles! From its stance on ethical production to its affordable, gorgeous designs to seeing models who actually look like us, there’s so much to love. Our team especially loves GC’s collection for cute crop tops that actually fit larger cup sizes and hold everything in. (Finally!) Read our full Girlfriend Collective review here.
My review | The first Girlfriend Collective set I got years ago is still one of my top go-tos. It makes me feel cool and supported while working out. For this review, I wanted to try my first-ever workout unitard: The Black Scoop Unitard. You could wear this baby for just about any workout and feel like everything is held in place. But, I ordered a small and I wish I’d sized up. The bust is a bit tight on me and feels a little tight on the shoulders. I’m hoping with some more wear it’ll stretch and form to my body a more. The thick, moisture-wicking fabric is great for high-intensity training and sweating. But I also love this piece for hiking. You can also wear it every day with an oversized button-down and sneakers.
5. Patagonia
Best For | Outdoor activities
Size Range | XXS–XXL
Price Range | $69–$129
Thickness | Thin
Coverage Level |Medium
Patagonia is a B Corp committed to the triple bottom line: Profit, people, and planet. The brand’s mission incorporates building the best products for those who love the great outdoors while also caring for the environment — that’s why Patagonia also has generous warranties, repairs, and even a secondhand shop. Our team loves (and has used!) Patagonia’s Ironclad guarantees to fix garment holes and stretched-out leggings from years of use — and the process is as simple and sustainable as it sounds! Whether you’re looking for yoga pants, outdoor jackets, running shorts, or activewear for little ones, this California-based brand has got you covered.
My review | This is my first Patagonia jacket and I can’t wait to wear it camping this summer. Paired with the waist pack, I’ll be ready for all the outdoor adventures. The jacket is thin and waterproof for rainy days. Yet, it’s breathable and oversized. I can wear layers underneath for added warmth. I also love that the fabric and water-repellent finish is made without perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs/PFAS). This one is for the adventurous among us!
6. Organic Basics
Best For | Affordable, cool designs
Size Range | XXS–XXL
Price Range | $28–$38
Thickness | Thin
Coverage Level | Low
Organic Basics creates elevated basics that are also sustainable! The brand uses eco-friendly fabrics like regenerative organic cotton, recycled nylon, and TENCEL™ Lyocell sustainable to craft their collections of undies, tanks, loungewear, and activewear. They’re also transparent about ethical production practices in their factories. For those looking for comfy activewear that will also be gentle on the skin, look no further than Organic Basics.
My review | Okay, so, I’m a modest lady — especially in my activewear. This bold set is bringing some spice and edge to my workoutwear and I couldn’t be more grateful. I got the Luxe Touch Bike Shorts and the Luxe Touch Crop tee. Wearing this set I can’t help but walk a little taller. I was worried the fabric would be thin from the online pictures, but it’s much thicker in person. The ultra-soft LENZING™ ECOVERO™ Viscose fabric makes them comfy and stretchy. You can wear them for yoga, walking, or hiking. My only complaint is I wish the top had a bit more support/coverage around the bust. Though its thick fabric doesn’t make it see-through, let’s just say, I wouldn’t want to do a lot of jumping. Note that the fabric doesn’t hold up to any kind of sweat — it’s apparent immediately so low-impact is the key here.
7. tentree
Best For | Silky soft everyday wear
Size Range | XS-XL
Price Range | $30-$100
Thickness | Thin
Coverage Level | Low
tentree understands that every little bit helps when it comes to being more eco-friendly, whether it’s bringing a reusable bag to the grocery store or shopping consciously. For every purchase, tentree plants 10 trees (the company aspires to plant 1 billion by 2030 — take that, climate change!), and more than 71 million have been planted already. Our team especially loves the InMotion Longline Active bra — it’s supportive enough for exercise but comfortable enough for lounging at home. The special edition colors are so dreamy!
My review | The first thing I thought when I pulled this set out of the bag was how silky and soft the pieces were. They feel thin yet durable. Unfortunately, the pants are large on me even though I ordered my normal size S. They also looked mid-waisted online but, once on, they’re very low rise showing my belly button. In the photos, they’re pulled up and balanced on my hips so my tummy doesn’t show with the cropped tank. Because of their size, I wouldn’t workout in these. Instead, I’d rather wear them for hiking and walking — and will definitely wear them often for those activities! As much as I love the shape of the tank, it also feels big. I’d love a tighter fit for low-impact activities but will most likely wear it for lounging as it doesn’t support my bust. Both the top and the pants also show wetness and stains easily. Overall though, I love the color and the lightweight softness that’ll be great for summer.
8. Jungmaven
Best For | Colorful hemp choices
Size Range | XS–XL
Price Range | $40–$84
Thickness | Medium/thick hemp
Coverage Level | Medium
Jungmaven has a unique founding story. One about a journey of finding fabric that doesn’t devastate the planet. This led to the innovative idea of hemp-made clothing. Hemp is a sustainable powerhouse. It’s non-toxic, restorative, clean, and durable — to name a few benefits. Considering the tight fabrics we wear when working out, Jungmaven is making workout wear as clean as possible. In addition to their everyday essentials, their activewear comes in many bright colors along with silhouettes like skorts and body suits.
My review | When I first put on this set from Jungmaven, I did a little happy dance around my room. It’s so soft and comfortable. It fits all the right places and I’ve already worn it more than most clothing in my closet. Now, that said, hemp activewear is not for everyone. It doesn’t have the spandex to hold you in and is much more comfortable rather than functional for working out. I got the Orosi Pocket Leggings in size small paired with the Spaghetti Tank. Although it’s not your typical spandex, the thick hemp fabric felt super secure. I wore the set to a vigorous Pilates class and felt supported the whole time. Given the materials, I would size down for added support — I got a size small in both the top and bottom but could have even tried an XS. The color faded a little on my first wash and I think they might lose tightness over time so, again, gentle care is key. I also noticed sweat after my Pilates class but that’s to be expected with natural fabric.
9. AllWear
Best For | Durable lounge and everyday wear
Size Range | XXS–7XL
Price Range | $68–120
Thickness | Thick and resistant
Coverage Level | High coverage
AllWear is committed to putting the planet and people first in everything they do. They start by making non-toxic fabrics from 100% natural materials, whether it’s a pair of organic joggers or a comfy bamboo bra top. AllWear designs are durable, timeless, and long-lasting — and they are focused on creating ways to close the loop on their products’ lifecycles isn’t the landfill. They’re certified OEKO-TEX, Global Organic Textile Standard, and Organic Content Standard — plus they are transparent about supporting their factory workers. We love the clothes, too!
My review | I knew immediately when I pulled my organic joggers and bamboo bra top out of the bag: I was in love. Both pieces have a thick yet soft feel. You can tell they’re made to last with high-quality, durable fabrics. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the bra top has so much structure, including its adjustable straps, removable padding, and an added stitch detail under the bust that creates more hold. I ordered this top in a medium but could have sized it down. It fits great but could be a tad tighter. Upon putting on the pants, I squealed and did a happy dance. Especially once I realized they had zippers on the pockets. Plus, the inseam makes them very high-waisted (my favorite way to wear pants). I also got a size medium and could have sized down for a tighter fit. However, their structured style still makes me feel put together even though they’re on the baggier side. When I wore this look to my toddler’s gymnastics class and errands after, I felt cool and sporty while also being effortlessly comfortable. I did notice the joggers stretched out a bit as the day went on but I’m sure they’ll shrink back after a wash.
Courtney Jay Higgins is a Contributing Editor at The Good Trade. She has a BA in Visual Communications from The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising and is the founder of Coincide, a subscription-based yoga platform focusing on inclusive, sustainable yoga rooted in ancient Eastern practices and spirituality. Her 10+ years of experience in yoga include a 200-hr YTT certification in a Hatha-based yoga practice and a certification in prenatal yoga. She has been featured in Shoutout Colorado, Voyage Denver, and Cora’s Blood & Milk. Since 2017, she has been reviewing sustainable fashion, natural makeup, organic wellness, and safe pregnancy products for The Good Trade’s readers.
