I Tried The Best Sustainable Activewear Brands for 2026
The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.
I’m not only a sustainable fashion editor, I’m also a yoga instructor. After personally testing dozens of activewear brands, these are my top picks with notes on performance and durability.
Activewear has to tick a lot of boxes. We want it to motivate us to get our bodies 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, I put some of the top conscious brands to the test. And it’s not just quality that I’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 choose sustainable activewear for your workouts?
The skin is our largest organ. It absorbs what we put on it, including what we wear. Consider your skin during a workout: The pores are open, and sweat is flowing, making it even more likely to absorb toxins. Unfortunately, commonly used synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and spandex can often be made with petrochemicals and treated with chemicals called PFAS. While PFAS are toxic, they are moisture-wicking, which means a lot of workout clothes on the market can include them. (It’s important to note that polyester and PFAS are often conflated, but they’re not the same thing. Polyester and other synthetic fabrics don’t inherently contain PFAS unless it’s been treated with 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. Choosing sustainable also means you’ll be supporting fair labor practices that prioritize the well-being of workers. Plus, the quality of sustainable activewear is top-notch — durable, comfortable, and stylish — so there’s no need to compromise when making a positive impact on the environment and supporting brands that treat people right.
Our methodology & criteria:
The Good Trade editors have worked out in the top sustainable activewear, corresponded with brands, and read thousands of customer reviews to compile this list. I was sent dozens of activewear essentials for review, and I personally tested each one. I live in the mountains of Colorado, where an active lifestyle is part of everyday life. I’m also a yoga instructor and a mom to a 1.5-year-old and a 4.5-year-old, so I’m constantly looking for pieces that feel put together while holding up to real wear.
I wore each piece through yoga sessions, long days of mom duty, and everything in between — walking the dog, running around at the park, teaching classes, grocery runs, and cooking at home. I also washed every piece to see how the color and fabric held up over time.
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 washing.
- SIZE-INCLUSIVE | We’ve included brands that make inclusive sizes, so there’s something here for everyone.
- BRAND ETHICS | These are all thoughtful brands that use sustainable, eco-friendly manufacturing and give back — 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. MATE the Label
Best For | Overall favorite
Size Range | XS-XL
Price Range | $58-$160
Thickness | Thick
Coverage Level | Medium coverage
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.
My review | MATE’s overall quality is unmatched. Their workout sets are my daily uniform for running around with my two young children. Their sets keep me feeling put together, stylish, and comfortable. For my complete MATE deep dive, read my review here.
I’m completely obsessed with this set! I love the Sienna color in their classic Organic Stretch Midi Leggings — which, after trying a few of their styles, is my favorite. Paired with the Organic Racer Tank (my other favorite style). To top off this set, the Organic Fleece Cropped Half-Zip Sweater is the icing on the cake. It’s the perfect crop length, and I love the thick, structured fabric. The colors are perfect for spring, and I’ve been wearing this entire outfit almost daily. Because of the quality, there are no stains or dirt at the end of the day. Which is something I’ve struggled with while wearing other organic fabrics. I’ve also always wanted to try MATE’s socks. I adore this 3-pack in their classic earth tones. They’re thick and cozy, and I love pairing them with my other MATE essentials.
2. Organic Basics
Best For | Recycled activewear & loungewear
Size Range | XXS-XXXL
Price Range | $12-$100
Thickness | Thick
Coverage Level | High coverage
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 fiber, to craft their collections of undies, tanks, loungewear, and activewear. They’re also transparent about ethical production practices in their factories, and they show their environmental impact for every piece they sell. Look under the “product impact” tab while shopping. For those looking for comfy activewear that’s gentle on the skin, look no further than Organic Basics.
My review | Organic Basics is known for not only its basics but also its silhouettes and colors that push the mold. Given their wide range of styles for loungewear and activewear, I wanted to try a couple of their sets. When I saw this sporty set with a pop of color, I fell in love. Both the Active Flow Leggings and the Active Flow Bra are made from certified recycled nylon. Meaning they offer the hugging stretch you want in activewear while also reducing their environmental footprint. Their Active Flow line features a heavier, tighter, and more compressive support fabric for higher-impact workouts. This bra is perfect for a runner, for instance. It features a built-in shelf bra with removable padding.
I also tried the Active Flare Legging and Active Mesh Long Sleeve Tee. Both are made from recycled nylon. You can feel this in how silky soft and lightweight they both are. Yet the leggings are also thick and durable — these are a new go-to. When on, they’re thick enough to provide support during workouts yet comfortable enough for everyday wear. My favorite feature is the dipped-back detailing that frames and enhances the booty. The long sleeve is a great piece for wearing to warm up before a workout.
3. Boody
Best For | Bamboo loungewear
Size Range | XXS-4XL
Price Range | $15-$85
Thickness | Thick
Coverage Level | Medium coverage
When looking for comfortable, nontoxic, earth-conscious, and mindfully made basics from organically grown bamboo, Boody is the one. Their signature bamboo viscose fabric is breathable, heat-regulating, and moisture-wicking, making it ideal for everyday wear. We especially love their line of ultra-soft bamboo underwear. Including their thoughtfully designed period underwear — as well as their women’s and men’s lounge essentials like relaxed-fit pants, seamless bodysuits, and buttery-soft, stretchy leggings. Their clothing is OEKO-TEX® certified, crafted in FSC-certified facilities, and produced with a closed-loop process that minimizes waste and water use.
My review | I’ve turned to Boody for years for their extremely comfortable and soft bamboo underwear and baby essentials. I was excited to try their clothing, and especially this Boat Neck Jumpsuit. It’s made from a midweight bamboo cotton jersey fabric blend that feels airy yet durable. I wore this piece for light yoga and stretching, meditation, and lounging.
It’s one of those pieces I’ll reach for on days I want to be more comfortable and not wear tight clothes for working out, like when I’m on my period. A couple of complaints, however, is the the fabric is like a magnet for hair and dust. By the end of the day, I’m covered in all the little particles it picked up — cue the lint roller. Also, the length is a bit too long for my 5’4” frame. But that’s also a personal preference, given that I like a more cropped fit. For wear, it’s important to note that it needs to be worn with a bra. Alone, the fabric is too thin and doesn’t offer support. But I adore the pockets and grab-and-go style of this piece.
5. Quince
Best For | Yoga (in cute colors!)
Size Range | XS – XL
Price Range | $20 – $70
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!
6. Pact
Best For | Lounging & sensitive skin
Size Range | XS – 3XL
Price Range | $40 – $68
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!)
9. Patagonia
Best For | Outdoor activities
Size Range | XXS – XXL
Price Range | $45 – $299
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!
10. AllWear
Best For | Durable lounge and everyday wear
Size Range | XXS – 7XL
Price Range | $16 – $256
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.
