Nachhaltige Yogakleidung: Die Besten Marken für Gesündere Praxis

Most of us exercise yoga to boost our health, mental and physical, —but what about our yoga clothes? Many popular companies rely on synthetic fabrics that may not only harm the planet but could also be affecting our bodies. A recent report (2022-2023) by the Center for Environmental Health highlighted that traditional leggings, shorts, sports bras, and athletic shirts from well-known brands could expose you to up to 40 times the safe limit of BPA—a chemical tied to health issues like asthma and heart disease and linked to endocrine disruption.

To further reduce chemical exposure from your apparel, consider choosing non-toxic laundry detergent brands that avoid harsh chemicals.

And guess what? These high BPA levels were found specifically in polyester-based clothing containing spandex—the exact combination that makes up most yoga pants and sports bras.

While synthetic fibers aren’t exclusive to activewear, the way you wear these clothes can make them risky. According to health experts, your body is more likely to absorb chemicals and microplastics while you're sweating.

So every time you sweat, those chemicals may be transferring to your skin, which is why switching to nontoxic yoga clothes feels less like a trend and more like a wellness essential.

That´s why activewear was one of the first wardrobe changes I made when I started my non-toxic living journey, and it’s the one I recommend you begin with.

The good news? Since these findings, over 90 brands have committed to reformulating their products. And even better—it's totally possible to find yoga clothes with the perfect blend of comfort, flexibility, and purity.

In this article, we’ve carefully selected in our opinion, best non-toxic yoga clothes brands that prioritize your health, the environment, and—of course—style. Whether you’re aiming for high performance, eco-conscious fabrics, or all-day comfort, these brands have you covered with workout gear that aligns with your values.

In this guide, I'll share the best non-toxic yoga clothes´brands I've discovered and tested, reveal the cocktail of chemicals lurking in traditional yoga wear, and offer my top tips for choosing workout clothes that keep you safe and comfy during your yoga sessions.

Why Switch to Non-Toxic Yoga Clothes?

Most workout clothes are made from synthetic plastic fibers like polyester, spandex, nylon, or elastane. While these fabrics offer great moisture-wicking properties and flexibility, they come with several problems for your body, such as:

• Forever Chemicals (PFAS): have been linked to serious health conditions including cancer and reproductive harm. A study found that 25% of tested workout leggings and yoga pants contained detectable levels of organic fluorine (an indicator of PFAS), with concentrations ranging from 10 ppm to 284 ppm. Here's what really scary: In 2023, CEH found cancer-causing nitrosamines at 1,600 times the safe limit in Lululemon's latex yoga mat. If their mats are that toxic, what about their clothes?

• BPA: An endocrine disruptor associated with reproductive issues and metabolic disorders.

• Toxic Dyes and Phthalates: Can cause skin irritation, allergies, and long-term health effects.

• Antimicrobial Treatments: Some athletic wear uses anti-odor additives (like silver nanoparticles or triclosan), which may pose additional health and environmental concerns.

In simple words, these toxic chemicals in clothing can go from causing contact dermatitis to interfering with your endocrine system, potentially leading to more serious issues. That’s why many recommend making the switch to non-toxic products.

Although BPA grabs most of the headlines, the reality is that nearly 8,000 chemicals are commonly used to turn raw materials into textiles. But as José Domingo, professor emeritus of toxicology at the Universitat Rovira i Virgili School of Medicine, notes, this doesn’t mean all these chemicals are present in every synthetic fabric.

However, it is difficult to know which ones linger as toxic residues. And any amount of PFAS and BPA in yoga clothing is concerning.

You want an outfit that not only looks good but also performs well during your workout—without having to worry about harmful chemicals seeping into your skin as you sweat. That’s why we’ve curated a list of the best non-toxic yoga brands to help you enjoy a healthier, stress-free workout.

Ready to make the switch? Let's explore our favorite non-toxic yoga brands!

What are the Best Non-Toxic Yoga Clothes?

MATE The Label | Shop here*

Pact |Shop here*

Tripulse | Shop here*

Organic Basics | Shop here*

Reprise | Shop here*

Groceries Apparel | Shop here*

Aktiive | Shop here*

Girlfriend Collective | Shop here*

Boody | Shop here*

How Do We Choose the Best Non Toxic Yoga Clothes?

Our top picks for the safest yoga clothing brands include only those that meet our rigorous standards:

• No per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)

• Made mostly from natural or non toxic fibers, particularly organic cotton, TENCEL™ Lyocell, ROICA® V550, TENCEL™ Modal, Plant-Based Nylon, and Viscose made from bamboo.

• Preferably Holds Third-Party Certifications (GOTS, OEKO-TEX® Standard 100,) —these guarantee your clothes are tested and verified free from over 1,000 harmful substances

• Dyed with low-impact, GOTS-approved, or plant-based colorants

We divided our top picks into two categories:

• "Best" Non Toxic Yoga Clothing: These top picks contain more than 90% high-purity fabrics with minimal synthetic content and typically hold certifications from trusted safety organizations.

• "Better" Non Toxic Yoga Clothing: These choices still meet our strict standards and are often certified by reputable safety organizations, but may include more than 10% synthetic fibers.

The Best PFAS-free, Non-Toxic Yoga Brands

MATE the Label – Organic Yoga Leggings & Bra Set*

Best Overall and Our Top Pick

Certifications: B Corp, Climate Neutral, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)

Organic Materials: 92% GOTS-certified Organic Cotton and 8% Spandex

Size Range: XS - 3XL

Pricing Range: $82.00 - $152.60

Why We Like It:

Looking for stylish and non-toxic workout clothes made with organic materials that keep you comfortable? Nothing beats the comfort and peace of mind you get from MATE the Label’s organic cotton yogawear. You'll love Mate the Label’s timeless collection of organic leggings, bike shorts, and bras - so soft, you won’t want to take them off. Whether you're running errands or taking it slow, they're perfect for whatever your day brings.

This ethical brand uses a PFAS-free, eco-friendly fabric that's non-irritating, breathable, and flattering. I put their non-toxic leggings to the test during hot yoga, and they didn’t cause any redness or irritation. And after dozens of washes, they still hold their shape and stay pill-free!

Shop MATE the Label here*

Pact – Sustainable Cotton Yoga Leggings*

Best for: Affordable Everyday Yoga Wear

Certifications: Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Fair Trade factories

Organic Materials: 90% GOTS-certified Organic Cotton, 10% Elastane

Size Range: XXS - 3XL

Pricing Range: $48.00 - $94.00.

Why We Like It:

Shopping on a budget? Pact proves you don’t have to spend a fortune to find high-quality, non-toxic yoga clothes. You’ll adore Pact’s collection of high-quality, sustainable yoga clothing that’s gentle on your skin and easy on your wallet. With just 10% of elastane, their non toxic yoga pants provide the right amount of stretch for all-day wear, yoga, and light workouts. And to make things better, they're GOTS-certified, which means they're completely free of harmful substances.

They come in a variety of styles and earthy shades, but my absolute favorite is the black bootcut legging. I love that it makes you look stylish and doesn't slip down during workouts or stretching!

Shop Pact here*

Tripulse – TENCEL™ Eucalyptus Workout Set*

Best for: Sweat-intensive Yoga Classes (and Workouts)

Certifications: Climate Neutral Certified (entire brand), products certified by Lenzing – EU Ecolabel, FSC and PEFC certified wood fiber, fabric is Oeko-Tex certified & REACH compliant; production and entire supply chain in Europe GOTS certified

Sustainable Materials: TENCEL™ Lyocell, Roica™ V550 (biodegradable version of elastane), Natural Rubber, Recycled Elastane

Size Range: XXS - XXXL

Pricing Range: $132.00 - $196.00 +

Why We Like It:

I love the way my body feels after a high-intensity workout. The downside? Sweating profusely and dealing with unpleasant body odor. That’s why Tripulse has become one of my favorite brands. The brand uses nearly 95% natural and biodegradable fabrics, with only a small percentage of recycled material in their elastane. Their TENCEL™ Lyocell fabric is not only moisture-wicking and odor-resistant but also incredibly gentle on the skin. This eco-friendly approach means you get all the stretch and support you need without compromising on sustainability—making Tripulse one of the most natural activewear options and one of my top picks!

I'm obsessed by how well their PFAS-free yoga clothes keep you odor-free even after intense workout, HIIT, and hot yoga sessions. More reasons to fall in love? Their non toxic leggings are lightweight, super soft, squat-proof, and stretchy!

Shop Tripulse here*

Organic Basics - Sustainable Non Toxic Yoga Pants*

Best for: Low-impact Exercises

Certifications: 1% for the Planet, PETA-Approved Vegan

Organic Materials: 57% Organic Cotton, 38% TENCEL™ Modal, 5% Elastane

Size Range: XXS - XXL

Pricing Range: €49

Why We Like It:

Designed to flow with your day, these organic leggings help you transition from yoga sessions to everyday activities. Made with a touch of elastane, these sustainable yoga pants offer light compression and soft stretch—ideal for gentle yoga sessions.

What I like about Organic Basics' non-toxic leggings is the addition of leg straps, designed to keep them securely in place as you move. No more awkward or constant adjusting!

Shop Organic Basics here*

Groceries Apparel – Plant-Dyed Yoga Leggings*

Best for: Plant-based Dyes

Certifications: B Corp, Climate Label Certified, GOTS-certified organic dyes

Organic Materials: 92% Organic Cotton, 8% Spandex

Size Range: XS - XL(some 2XL)

Pricing Range: $42.00 - $118.00 (frequently on sale 25% off; check for current pricing)

Why We Like It:

Every time I wear these organic leggings, I feel good knowing they're completely safe for my body and truly one of a kind. And honestly, they never fail to spark a fun chat about how they're made!

Each piece is naturally dyed using vegetable pigments from upcycled food waste, giving you a unique look without any of the toxic stuff that could irritate your skin. But more surprisingly, the colors don't fade at all after washing, even though they're made from food waste like avocado pits, carrot tops, and onion skins.

Shop Groceries Apparel here*

Aktiive - Plant-Based, Ecodegradable™, High-Performance Fit*

Best for: Squat-proof Leggings

Certifications: OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 (all yarns certified to Annex 6, Product Class I—the most stringent standard)

Sustainable Materials: 42% Plant-Based Nylon (from castor beans), 40% Biodegradable Bio-Accelerated Nylon, 18% Roica™ V550 (certified non-toxic elastane with enhanced biodegradability)

Size Range: 2 - 14 (equivalent to XS-3X)

Pricing Range: $98.00 - $125.00

Why We Like It:

Craving non toxic leggings that actually pass the squat test? Try Aktiive's sustainable yoga clothing and you won't be disappointed. After testing their plant-based leggings during squat-heavy exercises, they quickly became one of my favorite choices. No slipping, no show-through, no sweat stains. Just pure comfort, support, and confidence—nothing less. Plus, it's impressive how buttery soft their yoga pants and bras feel against the skin, almost like you're wearing nothing.

Important note: While Aktiive's plant-based nylon is made from renewable castor beans instead of petroleum (reducing carbon footprint by up to 50%), the polyamide chemical structure is identical to petroleum-based nylon. What makes Aktiive truly non-toxic is their OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification, which guarantees the fabric is free from BPA, PFAS, and azo dyes—not the carbon source of the nylon itself.

Shop Aktiive here*

The “Better” Non-Toxic Yoga Clothes (Still Safe Alternatives)

Girlfriend Collective – Recycled Leggings*

Best for: Inclusive Sizing

Certifications: OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 (~70% of fabrics certified)

Recycled Materials: 79% recycled water bottles (RPET) and 21% spandex

Size Range: XXS - 6XL

Pricing Range: $78.00 - $148.00

Why We Like It:

If you're having a hard time finding non-toxic yoga clothing that fits, Girlfriend Collective might be exactly what you need. With a wide size range spanning XXS to 6XL, they make it easy to find the right fit for nearly every body. But that's not all, their sustainable yoga clothing comes in a variety of colors and styles—giving you plenty of options to match your look and feel. Each legging diverts more than 25 plastic bottles from landfills!

Why Better? Although these leggings are certified non-toxic and made with recycled materials, they are entirely made from synthetic fibers. Plus, they'll shed microplastics every time you wash them.

Shop Girlfriend Collective here*

Reprise – Sustainable, Non Toxic Leggings*

Best for: Snug, Supportive Fit

Certifications: OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, 1% for the Planet, Fair Trade Factories

Toxin Free Materials: 85% Biodegradable Polyamide, 15% Recycled Spandex

Size Range: XS - 6XL

Pricing Range: $125.00+

Why We Like It:

Missing the stretch and feel of traditional synthetic leggings? With a non-toxic blend of biodegradable polyamide and recycled spandex, Reprise’s high-waist leggings are much stretchier than any other organic yoga pants I’ve tried. But unlike regular leggings, they're free of over 2,000 harmful chemicals!

Thanks to their snug fit, these non toxic leggings provide a firm yet comfy hold that's ideal for high-intensity workouts, like CrossFit and strength training. Plus, they're breathable enough for cardio.

Why Better? Even though these non toxic leggings are OEKO-TEX® certified and use sustainable materials, they're still plastic-based and may fall short for those with strict safety standards.

Shop Reprise here*

Boody – Bamboo Yoga Leggings*

Best for: Temperature Control

Certifications: B Corp, OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, PETA-Vegan Approved, FSC

Non Toxic Materials: 79% Viscose made from bamboo, 15% Nylon, 6% Elastane

Size Range: XS - XL

Pricing Range: $35.99

Why We Like It:

Boody's bamboo yoga pant is another affordable, non toxic option I like to recommend. Thanks to the high content of bamboo viscose, their sustainable yoga clothing is naturally antibacterial and exceptionally breathable. But what really sets these non toxic leggings apart is their thermo-regulating design. It’s definitely a game-changer in warm climates, helping me stay fresh and avoid that sticky, sweaty feeling other leggings give.

The brand focuses on comfort over high compression, so these are best for gentle yoga, low-impact workouts, lounging, layering, or even wearing under jeans.

Why Better? These bamboo yoga pants contain up to 20% synthetic fibers, which may not meet the expectations of eco-conscious users seeking fully natural activewear.

Shop Boody here*

Buying Guide & Ingredient Science: How to Choose Truly Non-Toxic Yoga Clothes

Want to learn the secret to finding genuinely non-toxic yoga wear?

Below, we'll explain in detail the harmful chemicals that are commonly present in activewear and our top tips to ensure your yoga clothes are completely free of these toxins.

Harmful Chemicals in Conventional Yoga Wear and Their Risks

The most common toxins found in regular yoga clothing include:

• PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) - These "forever chemicals" are commonly added for water or stain resistance. The scary part? PFAS are linked to an increased risk of cancer, immune suppression, hormone disruption, reproductive harm, and other serious health issues. Major update: As of 2025, California has restricted PFAS in textiles, and certifications like Bluesign eliminated PFAS from their approved list in July 2023. Many brands including REI, Gore-Tex, and Patagonia have committed to phasing out PFAS by 2025.

• Bisphenol A (BPA) - This endocrine disruptor has been found in multiple athletic clothing brands, particularly those made from synthetic fibers like polyester-spandex blends. BPA mimics estrogen and has been linked to reproductive harm and developmental problems.

• Phthalates - These endocrine disruptors are used as plasticizers to make synthetic fabrics more flexible. Phthalates may increase the risk of certain cancers, diabetes, and neurological problems.

• Formaldehyde - Often used for anti-wrinkle or anti-shrink finishing on fabrics. This harmful chemical is a known human carcinogen and skin irritant. Here's what I do: smell new yoga clothes before buying. That "new clothing smell" you notice? It's formaldehyde off-gassing.

• Azo Dyes - Widely used to achieve bright colors, particularly in clothing with rich black tones (accounting for 60-80% of all fabric dyes). Once in contact with your skin, these colorants break down into aromatic amines, which can cause skin allergies, dermatitis, and even certain types of cancer.

• Heavy Metals - Lead and Chromium (VI) are usually present in vividly colored synthetic fabrics. They can be absorbed through the skin, increasing the risk of contact dermatitis and cancer.

• Antimicrobial Treatments - Commonly added to "odor-resistant” activewear. These chemicals may cause health problems for those with sensitive skin.

Now that you know how toxic regular yoga clothing can be, let's learn how to spot truly non toxic activewear!

What to Look for in Non-Toxic Yoga Clothes?

Want to ensure your sustainable yoga clothing is completely toxin-free? Look for these safety signs:

• Non Toxic Fabrics: Prefer yoga clothes made from organic cotton, hemp, bamboo viscose, TENCEL™ Lyocell, ROICA® V550 (certified non-toxic elastane), or TENCEL™ Modal. Remember: plant-based nylon has the same chemical structure as petroleum nylon, so what matters is the certification (OEKO-TEX or Bluesign), not the carbon source.

• No Chemical Treatments: Avoid yoga clothing with descriptions like “odor-resistant,” “antimicrobial,” “wrinkle-free,” “water-resistant” or “stain-proof”, as these may indicate the presence of PFAS, formaldehyde, or other harmful chemicals.

• Non Toxic Dyes: Look for sustainable yoga clothing brands that use low-impact, GOTS-certified, azo-free, or natural plant-based dyes.

• Certifications: Opt for yoga bras, yoga pants, shorts, and tank tops that are certified by reputable organizations, like Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Bluesign, or OEKO-TEX® Standard 100. These certifications guarantee your clothing is tested and verified free from over 1,000 harmful substances including PFAS, BPA, formaldehyde, azo dyes, and heavy metals.

Certification Hierarchy (What's Best?):

• Gold Standard: Multiple certifications (GOTS + OEKO-TEX + Bluesign)

• Strong: Any two of the above

• Minimum: At least OEKO-TEX Standard 100 or GOTS

Material Safety Guide:

• Safest: Organic cotton (GOTS), merino wool, hemp, TENCEL™

• Safe Synthetics: Recycled polyester with OEKO-TEX/Bluesign certification

• Caution: Polyester-spandex blends (verify BPA testing)

• Avoid: Unlabeled "performance" fabrics without certifications

Does this mean your yoga clothing won't be as good as traditional activewear? Not at all!

Performance vs. Safety: Finding the Right Balance

You don’t have to compromise performance for safety. Luckily, you can get stretchy, moisture-wicking, durable yoga clothes that are also non-toxic. Here's how to make it possible:

• Stretch & Support: As long as your yoga clothing is certified, it’s safe to choose options with a synthetic blend. For lounging and everyday wear, you can opt for yoga clothing primarily made from natural materials with 5-10% synthetic fibers. For intense workouts, you could wear certified non-toxic yoga clothing with a higher synthetic content for additional flexibility and support.

• Moisture Management: Natural fabrics like merino wool, bamboo viscose, TENCEL™ Lyocell, and hemp are naturally breathable, moisture-wicking, antibacterial, and odor-resistant.

• Understanding Biodegradable Polyamide: Brands may tout "biodegradable nylon" that breaks down 10x faster than regular nylon (3-5 years vs. 50+ years). Important context: This only happens at end-of-life in specific industrial landfill conditions with particular bacteria—NOT during use, washing, or in your backyard compost. While biodegradable polyamide certified OEKO-TEX (like Amni Soul Eco) is indeed non-toxic, the biodegradability feature is an end-of-life benefit, not a safety feature.

Key Takeaways

• Most yoga clothes are made entirely from synthetic fibers, which may contain harmful substances (like BPA, Azo dyes, and phthalates) that may affect your health.

• Yoga clothing often undergoes chemical treatments to make them “water-resistant,” “stain-proof”, “odor-resistant,” “antimicrobial,” or “wrinkle-free.” However, these treatments often leave toxic residues in your clothes, including PFAS and formaldehyde.

• Your skin absorbs chemicals faster when you're sweating, which increases your chances of developing skin reactions or serious health conditions over time. This is why non-toxic activewear is so critical.

• Non toxic yoga clothes are made from clean, natural fabrics that are safer for your health and the environment. They skip harmful toxins and finishes to reduce chemical exposure.

• Performance and safety can coexist. Certified non toxic yoga clothes provide flexibility and support while using toxin-free fabrics that are naturally moisture-wicking and odor-resistant.

You have the power to demand better. Every non-toxic purchase you make tells brands that your health matters more than their profit margins. Together, we can create a future where yoga clothes heal our bodies instead of poisoning them.

FAQs Non Toxic Yoga Clothes

What are the best materials for non-toxic yoga clothes?

The safest materials are GOTS-certified organic cotton, TENCEL™ Lyocell/Modal (made from sustainably-sourced eucalyptus or beech wood), hemp, merino wool, and bamboo viscose. These natural fibers are breathable, moisture-wicking, and biodegradable. For synthetic blends, look for OEKO-TEX Standard 100 or Bluesign-certified fabrics, which guarantee testing for over 1,000 harmful chemicals. Safe synthetic options include ROICA® V550 (certified non-toxic elastane), recycled polyester with OEKO-TEX certification, and plant-based nylon with proper certification.

How can I tell if yoga clothes are truly non-toxic?

Look for third-party certifications like GOTS, OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, or Bluesign®, which test for over 1,000 harmful substances. Avoid items labeled as "antimicrobial," "odor-resistant," "stain-proof," or "wrinkle-free" as these often contain PFAS, formaldehyde, or other toxic chemicals. Check the fabric composition and choose items with high percentages of certified natural or semi-synthetic fibers

Can synthetic blends ever be safe or sustainable?

Yes, when properly certified. OEKO-TEX certified synthetic blends and innovative materials like ROICA® V550 (biodegradable elastane) and recycled polyester can be safe alternatives. However, they should make up a small percentage of the garment (typically 5-20%) and be certified free from harmful chemicals. Be aware that fully synthetic garments will still shed microplastics during washing.