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.
Table of contents
- Best Overall: MATE the Label ($58+)
- Best For Recycled Activewear & Loungewear: Organic Basics ($12+)
- Best For Bamboo Loungewear: Boody ($15+)
- Best For Colorful, Stylish Activewear: Vuori ($18+)
- Best For Affordable, Ultra-Soft Activewear: Quince ($24+)
- Best For Organic Loungewear: Pact ($30+)
- Best For Merino Wool Leggings & Bras: BRANWYN ($36+)
- Best For Outdoors: Patagonia ($69+)
- Best For Futuristic Sneakers & Activewear: ON ($55+)
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.
4. Vuori
Best For | Colorful, stylish activewear
Size Range | XXS-XXL
Price Range | $18-$128
Thickness | Thick
Coverage Level | Full coverage
Vuori is a brand reimagining the fit, composition, and look of standard activewear. But don’t be fooled by their ultra-stylish pieces. They’re also committed to reducing their environmental footprint. Their designs are made with Vuori’s “preferred fibers,” including recycled and lower-impact materials like recycled polyester and organic cotton. They’re also Climate Neutral–certified, meaning they rigorously measure their carbon footprint.
My review | My favorite thing about Vuori is how cool they make an active lifestyle look and how truly cool their activewear pieces are. They also bring in unique colors to average sports bras and leggings, like pastel pinks, sky blue, and gingham yellow. For this review, I had to try this Sedona Loungewear Set in this beautiful lilac color for yoga at home or for layering on an early-morning walk around our local lake. I adore the silhouette. It’s a lightweight fabric perfect for the spring and summer. The fit is true to size overall, though it might run a bit large. I did size down. My only complaint is that I traveled with it in a suitcase, and it wrinkles really easily.
I also had to try their Halo Easy Wideleg pants and Halo Cami. I adore that the pants come in short, regular, or long lengths. I opted for the short length, and they fit perfectly on my 5’4” petite frame. This cami is now my favorite. I love how it fits. It’s the perfect amount of stretch and tightness to keep you feeling supported without it being too tight. I also like the removable bra inserts for extra nipple coverage. For the bottoms, I adore this silhouette but wish I had sized up as they run a bit small. Alongside, the light-colored fabric stains easily and holds oil, so you have to be careful with deodorant and sweat.
5. Quince
Best For | Affordable, ultra-soft activewear
Size Range | XS-XL
Price Range | $24-$44
Thickness | Thick
Coverage Level | Medium coverage
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 | My favorite thing about Quince activewear is how buttery soft their pieces are. They have a silk-like quality that feels weightless while on. I was excited to try these Ultra Soft Cropped Bootcut Pants for their unique silhouette. My favorite feature is how high-waisted they are, but the soft fabric doesn’t feel too tight around the waist. These are leggings you could spend the entire day in and forget you even have pants on. They are also designed for a petite height, which I love. However, they are more cropped than I expected. For anyone taller than 5’4”, they would look way too short.
I paired the leggings with the Ultra-Soft V-Neck Cropped Tank. It is just as soft as the leggings, but it runs large, and I wish I’d sized down from my regular size small for a more supportive fit. Yet this is a set I will turn to often for all-day wear, whether running errands, hiking, or doing yoga. Not to mention, the price point cannot be beat for such a high-quality activewear set!
6. Pact
Best For | Organic loungewear
Size Range | XS-3XL
Price Range | $30-$130
Thickness | Thick & durable
Coverage Level | Medium coverage
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. Most pieces are certified Fair Trade, too. 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 hot yoga, hangouts with friends, and under dresses and boots in the fall!)
My review | Pact is a brand I turn to for workout basics. I adore their organic cotton leggings, tee-shirts, and loungewear. I often practice yoga wearing looser-fitting clothing and opted to try their Organic CloudKnit Wide Leg Pant, matching CloudKnit sweater, and Organic On The Go-To Tank. I adore this entire set for doing meditation or gentle yoga. The CloudKnit set is made from thick organic cotton that feels structured yet cozy.
However, the tank is my absolute favorite. It’s a unique design that fits almost like a workout top without the shelf bra and tight spandex. Yet I feel held when I wear it, so I can do yoga, but also wear it as an everyday layering essential. I’m going to have to get this tank in their other colors. I’ve noticed Pact often runs large, so you’ll want to size down for a tighter fit. I got all 3 of these items in XS for my petite 5’4″, 115-lb frame, and I’m glad I did.
7. BRANWYN
Best For | Merino wool leggings & bras
Size Range | XS-XXL
Price Range | $36-$225
Thickness | Thick
Coverage Level | Full coverage
Rooted in the belief that what sits closest to your skin should be nontoxic and skin-safe, BRANWYN creates performance “inner” and activewear made from ethically sourced, ZQ-certified merino wool. Chosen for its breathability, temperature regulation, and moisture-wicking comfort. Designed by and for active women, they ensure high standards for animal welfare, land stewardship, and responsible farming. Their garments are made with OEKO-TEX® and Woolmark-certified yarns that are free from harmful chemicals such as BPA and PFAS. Alongside, they are passionate about traceability from farm to finished product.
My review | Never have I worn activewear made from Merino wool. Wearing BRANWYN is a completely different experience from any other activewear I’ve tried. These seamless Essential Compressive Leggings fit more like a tight pair, yet they are extremely thick. My first thought when putting them on was how great they would be in the winter, and sure enough, they were named Outside Magazine’s most versatile winter running tights. They’re made from a first-of-its-kind knit blend made from sustainable ZQRX™, OEKO-TEX 100, and RWS-certified Merino wool that is BPA, PFAs, and chemical-free.
At first, it took me a minute to get the leggings on; again, they are tight. But once on, the compressive fit feels supportive and held. The same fit was found in the Essential Racerback Bra that I paired with the leggings. It’s a great bra for larger chests that need full support. When wearing this set, you feel unstoppable, like you could do any activity and still feel supported. It’s also comforting knowing there are no harmful chemicals.
8. Patagonia
Best For | Outdoors
Size Range | XXS-XXL
Price Range | $69-$129
Thickness | Thin
Coverage Level | Medium coverage
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 | I absolutely adore this set from Patagonia. The Terrebonne Joggers are made from recycled polyester certified by OceanCycle and sourced from coastal communities at risk of plastic pollution, made without PFAS. They are extremely lightweight and the perfect pants for warm summer hikes. My family and I love camping, and these pants are also water-repellent, so they will be my go-to for full outdoor wear. The Live Simply Bra is my new favorite. I adore the seamless fit and lightweight fabric that’s still supportive. Wearing it feels like you have nothing on.
9. ON
Best For | Futuristic sneakers & activewear
Size Range | XS-XL
Price Range | $55-$300
Thickness | Thick
Coverage Level | High coverage
Blending Swiss engineering with a forward-thinking approach to sustainability, ON creates apparel that moves between an active lifestyle and everyday life. They are most known for their innovative collection of lightweight, clean, and modern sneakers for all sports. Made from renewable materials like Zero-Gravity foam, which uses ISCC+ certified bio feedstock, such as waste cooking oil. Their collection of activewear essentials ranges from heavy-duty sports bras to all-weather jackets built to last and made for all elements. Their collections are made from lightweight, technical fabrics, with a focus on recycled and bio-based materials.
My review | I’ve been eyeing ON’s sleek and modern sneakers for years. I always need easy-to-slip-on shoes for running out the door with my two little ones. I absolutely adore the Cloud 6 sneaker. Not only are they a slip-on style, but they’re incredibly lightweight and so comfortable — the name is fitting, they do feel like I’m walking on a cloud. The Train Bra is hands down the most form-fitting and supportive sports bra I’ve ever worn. It is considered “padded,” but it’s more than that. The bust has a sturdy shape that offers form and support — almost like a wire bra, but not in an uncomfortable way. It’s important to note, however, that the style runs small and it has very little stretch. I found it challenging to put on, and it feels a little tight while wearing it, but I also appreciate how supportive it is.
I paired the bra with the Core Pants. Unlike the bra, these run very large. Luckily, they have a built-in draw string to cinch the waist. This is not my typical go-to style for activewear, but I’m excited to explore wearing these throughout the summer for outdoor sports like hiking and camping, and they are thick enough to wear in the winter as well. They’re waterproof and feel really comfortable and lightweight.
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.
