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The Best Non Toxic Sports Bras for a Healthier Workout
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It seems like a no brainer, right? Staying active = good for our health. Well, for the most part, yes. But here’s the kicker: Unless you’re rocking non toxic sports bras, you could be counteracting a lot of that good!
Sure, working out is great for our body and mind, but if we're wearing gear loaded with nasty chemicals, we're not really doing ourselves any favors.
In this article, we'll get into nontoxic sports bras and how they can genuinely support our health. Plus, we'll break down what makes those regular sports bras not-so-great. And because I love finding the best options for non toxic living, I’ve rounded up our top picks for non-toxic alternatives to keep us comfy and chemical-free.
The Best Non Toxic Sports Bras Brands
"Best"
Mate the Label | Shop here*
Tripulse | Shop here*
Pact | Shop here*
Boody | Shop here*
Groceries | Shop here*
AYA | Shop here*
Organic Basics | Shop here*
TomboyX | Shop here*
Icebreaker | Shop here*
"Better"
Girlfriend Collective | Shop here*
How Do We Choose the Best Non Toxic Sports Bras?
We take pride in our selection process to ensure you get the best non-toxic sports bras available. Here’s how we do it:
Our selection process starts with thorough research. We begin by vetting the brands, digging into their sustainability practices, certifications, and the materials they use. From there, I narrowed down our list based on customer reviews and expert feedback to identify the top contenders.
Once I have the shortlist, it’s time to put these bras to the test. I wear them ourselves during various workouts—hot yoga, running, HIIT, and even just house loungin'—to see how they hold up in real-life scenarios. This hands-on approach helps us ensure that each bra isn’t just non-toxic but also comfortable and effective.
I’ve carefully curated our recommendations into two categories—"Best" and "Better"
"Best" products are our top picks for non-toxic sports bras. These options are sustainable sports bras made from natural materials like organic cotton and bamboo, which are inherently non-toxic. We’ve chosen these because they offer not only the best in safety but also a comfortable, skin-friendly experience.
"Better" products are still great choices. While they may be made from synthetic fabrics, they meet high standards for sustainability, so we wanted to include them in this list. These are perfect for those who might be okay with a bit of synthetic material as long as the product is created with environmental health in mind.
I know finding the right balance between sustainability and performance can be tricky, so I hope these options help you feel good about your choice, both in and out of the gym.
What Are the "Best" Non Toxic Sports Bras?
Mate the Label Organic Stretch Sports Bra* (Our Top Pick)
Best Overall
Price & Sizes: ~$72 (Mid-range); Sizes XS–3X. Cost-per-wear: approx. $0.60 (with weekly use for a year) – good value for a high-quality organic piece.
Certifications: Climate Neutral Certified, B Corp, GOTS
Materials: 92% Organic cotton, 8% Spandex
If you want a bra that’s safe and supremely comfortable, this is it. The fabric is soft but substantial, giving gentle compression without any itchy synthetic feel. It provides enough support for daily athletic wear, yoga, or weight training – and it held up beautifully through many wash cycles with no loss of shape . I also love MATE’s eco-commitments: the brand uses low-impact dyes and invests in carbon offsets and renewable energy . This bra is basically a hug for your bust and your conscience!
Scientific Insight: Organic cotton is grown without toxic pesticides and is processed under strict GOTS limits for chemicals like azo dyes and formaldehyde. The result? A fabric that’s less likely to irritate skin or off-gas harmful substances . Plus, cotton is naturally breathable. MATE’s bra lets you “ditch the plastic” in your workout gear – reducing exposure to microplastics and endocrine disruptors (no PFAS, no BPA).
Image @ Mate the Label
Tripulse Next Gen Sports Bra with TENCEL™*
Most Innovative, Best for Support
Pricing: $128
Certifications: OEKO-TEX, Climate Neutral
Materials: 86% TENCEL™ Lyocell, 14% Recycled Elastane
Why I Like It: The Tripulse Next Gen Sports Bra truly lives up to its name. It feels like a second skin—luxuriously soft and weightless, yet it provides a balanced medium support that holds me in place through everything from a morning run to a calming yoga session. The TENCEL™ Lyocell fabric is buttery-smooth and naturally breathable, so I stay cool and odor-free even after an intense workout (no more funky gym smell!). I especially love the clever design touches: a hidden inner opening for optional padding and an inner back pocket that fits my keys or card when I go jogging. Plus, knowing this bra is OEKO-TEX certified and made without any toxic finishes means my skin only touches safe, non-irritating material . It’s designed in Sweden and responsibly made in the EU, and it even comes from a Climate Neutral Certified brand—so I can feel good about wearing it in more ways than one. Honestly, this bra’s innovative, thoughtful design has set a new bar for comfort and sustainability.
Image @ Tripulse
Pact On The Go-To Rib Crop Top*
Best Crop Top, Medium Support
Pricing & Sizes: $25–$30 (Budget-friendly); Sizes XS–XXL. Great value: one of the most affordable non-toxic bras, under $30.
Certifications: GOTS, Fair Trade, Carbon Neutral (brand offsets footprint)
Materials: 91% Organic cotton, 9% Elastane
Why I Like It: Pact is known for buttery-soft organic cotton, and this longline bra is no exception. This sustainable sports bra is uber-comfy for all-day wear or low-impact workouts. The double-layer ribbed design gives light to medium support (perfect for walking, yoga, or lounging). I love that the cut prevents underarm chafing – no pinching or “side boob” escape. The elastic band could be a tad firmer for high-intensity workouts , but for A–C cups it does the job. Also awesome: Pact’s sustainable farming saves tons of water – over 877 million gallons to date by using organic cotton ! (No toxic agrochemicals means safer water and fabric). It’s truly a feel-good basic that you’ll reach for daily.
Image @ Pact
Boody Sports Bra*
Best Padded
Pricing: $27.95, Sizes S–XL. Comes with removable cups.
Certifications: Ecocert Organic Bamboo; OEKO-TEX 100 (verified free of harmful substances); B Corp
Materials: 80% Viscose, 13% Nylon, 7% Spandex, Dye: Low-impact, azo-free.
Why We Like It: Boody takes fast-growing bamboo and turns it into a silky-soft yarn – the result is a bra that literally feels like a second skin. Despite the light-as-air comfort, this bra provides decent support (thanks to a wide underbust band and optional pads). It’s my go-to for hot yoga and Pilates: the bamboo fabric is naturally moisture-wicking and antibacterial (bamboo kun, a plant bio-agent, gives it anti-odor properties ). I noticed zero skin irritation even during super-sweaty sessions – no weird chemical smells out of the package either, thanks to Boody’s toxin-free production. For medium impact (jogging), it’s supportive enough for B/C cups, though larger busts might reserve it for low impact. Bonus: knowing Boody’s commitment to eco-friendly practices, like using sustainable fabrics and pesticide-free natural fibers and recycling water, makes us feel even better about wearing this bra day after day. I love not worrying about “mystery chemicals” seeping into my pores as I work out .
Image @ Boody
Groceries Cross Back Performance Bra*
Best Cross Back
Price & Sizes: ~$40 (Mid-range); Sizes S–XL. Note: Runs snug for support – size up if between sizes.
Certifications: GOTS Certified Organic (fabric & dyes); Manufactured in USA (low-impact, ethical production)
Materials: 92% Organic cotton, 8% Spandex
Why I Like It: Groceries Apparel is an LA-based brand that literally grows and sews its activewear locally, using only non-toxic ingredients. This cross-back sports organic cotton sports bra is a testament to that philosophy – it’s like a cozy hug for your bust. The thick organic cotton fabric and double-layered design offer surprisingly firm support. Yet it’s still soft and breathable for all-day wear. The simple cross-back straps provide good lift without digging into shoulders. I love that the bra is free from padding, plastic, and even labels (the info is printed in soy-based ink) – nothing scratchy or irritating.
Because it’s 100% natural fibers touching your skin, me with my sensitive skin and dye allergies can tell this bra causes no irritation. After workouts, it absorbs sweat but doesn’t get stinky, likely because it’s not harboring petrochemical residues that can trap odor. And Groceries uses vegetable-based dyes in fun colors, so you’re not wearing garments soaked in azo dyes or heavy metals. If you want pure organic cotton support, these organic cotton sports bras are as clean as it gets.
Image @ Groceries
AYA Organic Pima Cotton Bralette*
Best Zero Plastic
Pricing: $30
Certifications: USDA, GOTS, Fair Trade
Materials: 100% Cotton
Why We Like It: Sometimes less is more, and EcoAya proves it with this simple yet luxurious bralette. It contains zero polyester, nylon, or spandex – a rare feat that made our plastic-free living testers very happy. Instead, it’s crafted from long-staple Peruvian Pima cotton, renowned for its softness and durability. The feel is ultra-gentle and breathable, making it perfect for days when you want to give your skin a break (think weekends, light yoga, pregnancy/postpartum lounging, or sleeping). While it’s not designed for high-impact support, the dense rib knit and scoop neck provide enough hold for low-impact activities or for smaller busts even on a jog (for A–B cups). I love EcoAya’s attention to non-toxic detail – even the elastic underband is encased in organic cotton, so nothing synthetic touches your skin. No tags, no toxic prints. And unlike many lounge bras that stretch out, this one holds shape well thanks to the quality of cotton (Pima fibers are strong and resistant to wear).
Image @ AYA
Organic Basics Organic Cotton Flex Bralette*
Best All-Day Comfort
Pricing: $33
Certifications: B Corp, GOTS
Materials: 91% Organic Cotton, 9% Elastane
Why I Like It: The Organic Basics Flex Bralette is a simple pleasure I find myself reaching for day in and day out. Made from GOTS-certified organic cotton with a touch of stretch, it’s unbelievably soft on my skin and offers just the right amount of gentle support for all-day wear. I love that it has adjustable straps, which means I can customize the fit so it never digs in or slips off the shoulders—a huge win for comfort. While it’s not a high-impact sports bra, it’s perfect for low-key workouts, lounging, or running errands when I just want to feel supported without any wires or padding. And as a Certified B Corp, Organic Basics ensures this bralette was made ethically and with the planet in mind, so I feel extra good about wearing it. It’s become my go-to everyday bra for a reason: it truly ticks all the boxes for comfort, style, and sustainability.
TomboyX Soft Bra*
Most Inclusive
Pricing: $32
Certifications: OEKO-TEX, B Corp, GRS, RCS, OCS, GOCS, BSCI, WRAP
Materials: 95% Cotton, 5% Spandex
Why We Like It: The TomboyX Scoop Neck Bralette is everything we didn’t know we needed. Crafted from buttery-soft, eco-friendly cotton, it’s as kind to the planet as it is to your skin. The wide straps and no-wire design make it a dream for all-day wear—even through a night’s sleep. I love how it fits like a hug, especially for those dealing with back pain. And with TomboyX’s commitment to diversity and ethical production, this bralette isn’t just comfy—it’s a statement.
Image @ TomboyX
Icebreaker Women's Sprite Racerback Sports Bra*
Best Wool Sports Bras
Pricing: $59.95
Certifications: OEKO-TEX, NSP
Materials: 83% Merino Wool, 12% Nylon, 5% Elastane
Why We Like It: Ever thought about wearing wool for workouts? Trust me– ultrafine merino wool is a game changer for a non-toxic, odor-resistant sports bra. The Icebreaker Sprite is a beloved classic: it’s wire-free, lightly supportive (best for A–C cups or low-medium impact), and incredibly comfortable. The merino fibers are soft (no itch at all) and do an uncanny job regulating temperature. I found this bra perfect for hiking and travel: you can wear it multiple times without washing, because it won’t stink (merino naturally inhibits odor-causing bacteria). It’s also great for sensitive skin – wool’s protein-based fibers are naturally antimicrobial and don’t require any anti-odor chemical treatment. I included this bra in our “best” list especially for those who want to avoid synthetics but need a bit more support/structure than an all-cotton bra – the wool provides that balance. The racerback design and brushed elastic give a secure fit, and while it won’t replace an ultra high-impact sports bra for larger busts, you can use it comfortably for activities like cycling, skiing, or everyday wear.
Image @ Icebreaker
What Are the "Better" Non Toxic Sports Bras?
Girlfriend Collective Topanga Bra*
Best Halter
Pricing: $36.80
Certifications: Oeko-Tex
Materials: 79% Recycled plastic water bottles, 21% Spandex
Why We Like It: The first time I slipped on the Girlfriend Collective Black Topanga Halter Bra, I knew it was something special. Not only does it fit like a dream—snug and supportive even without a back—but the story behind it makes it even better. This bra starts as recycled PET chips, transformed into the softest fabric I’ve ever felt. It’s perfect for everything from workouts to weekends, and knowing the care that goes into each thread just makes me love wearing it even more.
Shop Girlfriend Collective here*
Image @ Girlfriend Collective
Girlfriend Collective Paloma Bra*
Best Racerback
Pricing: $42
Certifications: Oeko-Tex
Materials: 79% Recycled plastic bottles, 21% Spandex
Why We Like It: The Girlfriend Collective Black Paloma Racerback Bra is the kind of piece that makes me feel good, both inside and out. The fabric is so soft and supportive, it’s hard to believe it started as recycled water bottles. The secret? A seriously impressive process that turns PET chips into buttery yarn, resulting in a bra that’s perfect for a workout but also chic enough for a night out. No surprise that Girlfriend Collective made the list twice with two sports bras—it's clear why they’re one of the best sustainable brands out there.
Shop Girlfriend Collective here*
Image @ Girlfriend Collective
Sports Bras Are Toxic? Really??
When we think about sports bras, we're usually focused on finding that perfect blend of support and comfort.
But here's something unexpected—many sports bras are hiding some pretty toxic secrets. Those stretchy, durable fabrics like polyester and spandex often come with a side of harmful chemicals, including dyes, formaldehyde, and even the notorious PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals.”
Why Switch to Organic Sports Bras?
Conventional sports bras may look good on those toned bods, but they often come with hidden risks—synthetic fabrics and chemicals that can irritate your skin and expose you to toxins. These toxins are linked to hormone disruption, cancer, and other health issues – one 2022 report found some bras could expose wearers to 66 µg of BPA per day (≈22× California’s safety limit).
That is definitely not sexy. Here’s why making the switch to non-toxic options is worth it!
Common Toxic Chemicals in Sports Bras (and How to Avoid Them)
Hidden BPA Dangers: Did you know that some sports bras can expose you to up to 40 times the safe limit of BPA? This chemical, often found in plastic water bottles, can also lurk in synthetic sports bras, leading to potential hormone disruption .
Pesticides in Fabrics: Non-organic fabrics, particularly cotton, are often treated with pesticides. In fact, seven of the 15 pesticides commonly used on cotton in the U.S. are listed as “probable” or “known” human carcinogens by the EPA .
PFAS and Forever Chemicals: Many synthetic sports bras are treated with PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) to make them moisture-resistant. These “forever chemicals” don’t break down in the environment and have been linked to immune system suppression, increased cholesterol levels, and even certain cancers.
Microplastics in Your Laundry: Washing synthetic fabrics, including many conventional sports bras, can release microplastics into our waterways. These tiny plastic particles are not only harmful to marine life but can also make their way back into our food and water supply.
Switching to non-toxic sports bras made from natural fibers or recycled materials means you’re not just protecting your health—you’re also making a choice that’s better for the planet.
The table below summarizes some harmful substances and how to spot or avoid them:
Table: Harmful Chemicals in Sports Bras & Safe Alternatives
|
Chemical/Toxin |
Found In |
Health Risks |
How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
|
BPA / BPS (bisphenols) |
Polyester, spandex (color-fast finishes) ; plastic adjusters |
Endocrine disruption (mimics estrogen) – linked to breast cancer, infertility, metabolic issues . Absorbed through skin (especially with sweat) . |
Choose BPA-free labeled bras or natural fibers; prefer OEKO-TEX certified (tested BPA-free) . Wash new synthetics before use. Limit wear duration of suspect bras. |
|
PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”) |
DWR coatings for sweat/water resistance ; anti-odor finishes |
Persistent in body & environment; linked to immune suppression, thyroid disease, certain cancers . Can transfer via skin, especially where fabric is in constant contact (like bra cups) . |
Look for “PFAS-free” or “no fluorochemicals” in product info. Avoid “stain-proof” claims. Prefer Bluesign® or brands like Girlfriend, Pact, etc. who explicitly ban PFAS. New laws (CA/NY 2025) are phasing these out . |
|
Phthalates (e.g., DEHP) |
Elastic fibers; printed logos/designs (plastisol inks) |
Hormone disruption (can affect fertility, fetal development) . Associated with asthma and obesity in some studies. Primarily an issue if leached out (e.g., through sweat or friction). |
Avoid bras with large vinyl logos or plasticky prints. Look for PVC-free or water-based prints. OEKO-TEX and GOTS certification ensure any phthalates are under safe limits. Wash your hands after handling receipts and PVC, as those are high phthalate sources that could contaminate fabrics. |
|
Formaldehyde |
Anti-shrink or anti-odor finishes; wrinkle-free treatments; glue in molded cups |
Carcinogen (IARC Group 1) ; causes skin irritation (“new clothing rash”) and respiratory issues. Off-gasses from fabric (that “chemical” smell). |
Wash new bras before first wear (reduces free formaldehyde). Buy from brands claiming formaldehyde-free finishing. GOTS prohibits it; OEKO-TEX limits it to safe levels. If a bra smells very strong or makes your eyes water, return it. |
|
Heavy Metals (Lead, Cadmium, etc.) |
Dyes/pigments (especially intense colors); metal hardware (hooks, sliders) |
Toxicity varies: lead affects nervous system, cadmium harms kidneys, etc. Low levels in fabric can cause contact dermatitis for some. Nickel in hardware causes allergic reactions in ~10% of people. |
Prefer low-impact dyes (natural or fiber-reactive dyes) – common in organic brands. OEKO-TEX screens for heavy metals in dyes . Choose bras with nickel-free hardware or coated metal/plastic components. If you have a metal allergy, opt for bras with no metal (pullover styles). |
|
Azo Dyes (Certain amines) |
Synthetic dyes in textiles (especially cheap, bright colors) |
Some azo dyes break down into carcinogenic aromatic amines (e.g., benzidine). Banned in EU but may appear in non-compliant products. Can be absorbed through skin with sweat. |
Buy from reputable brands (most have phased these out). Made in Europe/USA/Japan textiles are unlikely to use banned azo dyes. Look for Bluesign® or OEKO-TEX which prohibit these. Wash bright garments before wear to remove excess dye. |
|
Chlorine Bleach (residues) |
Whitening of fabrics (esp. cotton); in processing water |
Can leave organochlorine residues (like dioxins) – potential carcinogens and skin irritants. Also weakens fabric fibers. |
Optical brighteners or peroxide bleach are safer alternatives (many organic brands use those). GOTS-certified cotton is bleached with peroxide if needed. Choose “unbleached” or natural color bras when possible (e.g., organic cotton in natural off-white). Again, washing helps remove any residues. |
(Sources: Center for Environmental Health report ; Oeko-Tex chemical guidelines )
As you can see, certifications pop up repeatedly as a way to know a bra is safe. If all these chemical names are overwhelming, just remember this rule of thumb: Check for labels like OEKO-TEX, GOTS, Bluesign, or Fair Trade. They are your shorthand for non-toxic.
While these materials give us the performance we crave, they also make us wonder, what exactly are we putting next to our skin? And let’s not forget the environmental impact.
An Environmental Conundrum...
Polyester and nylon are the go-tos for durable and supportive sports bras, but here’s the catch—they take hundreds of years to break down in landfills. That’s a huge environmental issue. Like really HUGE.
Recycled materials, like recycled nylon and those made from PET bottles, offer a better alternative for those of us prioritizing sustainability. However, they can still carry some of the same harmful chemicals.
So, while recycled fabrics are a step in the right direction, we need to be mindful of the trade-offs between sustainability and potential chemical exposure.
Natural Fibers: Organic Cotton, and Bamboo, and Wool, Oh My!
When it comes to sports bras and other athletic clothing like leggings for that matter, organic cotton, bamboo, and merino wool are the real MVPs.
These materials are not only soft and breathable, but they’re also free from harmful chemicals, making them a healthier choice for our skin. Plus, their manufacturing processes are far more sustainable—especially with organic options that avoid toxic pesticides. Regenerative farming practices? That's like organic plus!
Choosing these fabrics means we’re doing good for our bodies and the planet, one workout at a time.
What certifications should I look for in non-toxic sports bras?
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), OEKO-TEX, Fair Trade Certified, and B Corp ensure that sports bras are non-toxic, ethically produced, and environmentally responsible. GOTS ensures the use of organic fibers, OEKO-TEX certifies that the textiles are free from harmful substances, Fair Trade Certified ensures ethical labor practices, and B Corp focuses on social and environmental responsibility.
Key Takeaways:
-
Why Non-Toxic Matters: Standard sports bras often contain chemicals like BPA (used in polyester/spandex blends) and PFAS (added for moisture-wicking), which can leach into skin during wear and can pose health risks.
-
Healthier Materials: The best non-toxic sports bras use natural and eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton, bamboo viscose, or merino wool – often free of pesticides, petroleum-based fibers, and harmful dye chemicals. Natural fibers are less likely to cause skin irritation and don’t shed microplastics.
-
Certifications to Look For: Prioritize bras with reputable safety certifications. GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) ensures the fabric is organic and processed without toxic dyes or finishes. OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 guarantees the final material was tested and certified free of hundreds of harmful substances (like formaldehyde, heavy metals, and phthalates).
-
Eco & Ethical Benefits: Non-toxic often goes hand-in-hand with sustainability. Many featured brands are eco-conscious – using organic or recycled materials, low-impact dyes, and ethical production. For instance, Pact’s organic cotton save hundreds of millions of gallons of water (877 million+ gallons saved so far) by avoiding thirsty conventional cotton farming .
If you enjoyed this post, check out these other articles on safe and non toxic products:
Best Non-Toxic Activewear Brands for a Healthier Workout
FAQs
Do all sports bras have BPA?
Not all sports bras contain BPA, but some may, especially if they are made from certain synthetic materials. BPA is a chemical often found in plastics and synthetic fibers, so it's possible for some sports bras to contain it.
What are high levels of toxic chemicals in sports bras?
High levels of toxic chemicals in sports bras can include PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), formaldehyde, and BPA, which are linked to health risks like hormone disruption.
What is the safest bra material?
Organic cotton is considered one of the safest bra materials due to its natural, chemical-free properties. Bamboo and merino wool are also regarded as safe materials because they are natural and typically involve fewer chemicals in their processing.
Do sports bras have PFAS?
Some sports bras do contain PFAS, especially those made from moisture-resistant synthetic fabrics.
Is Boody BPA free?
Yes, Boody’s bamboo-based fabrics are BPA-free and made with eco-friendly practices.
Is BPA in all spandex?
While not all spandex contains BPA, some synthetic blends might include it. BPA is not an inherent component of spandex but can be present in certain manufacturing processes.
Can you absorb BPA through skin from clothes?
Yes, BPA can be absorbed through the skin from clothing, particularly when there is sweat or prolonged contact.
Lauren Eaton
