The Best Non-Toxic Leggings (After 9+ Months of Testing)

When I decided to stop drinking out of BPA-infused disposable water bottles, I had no idea that I also needed to stop wearing them. Yep, as weird as it sounds, recycled water bottles often get a second life as leggings.

In fact, all activewear is usually made with plastic-based synthetic fabrics. And while they’re comfortable, they come with a hidden downside: many contain hormone-disrupting chemicals and other toxins that can leach into our skin, especially when we’re sweating. (1)

Personally, I want my exercise sessions to support healthy hormone balance, not work against it. That’s why, last November, I sat down with a cup of tea, a budget, and a mission: order as many non-toxic leggings as possible, then wear-test them for months on end.

I’m literally wearing one of those pairs right now as I type this, and I’m happy to report I found several comfy, breathable, high-quality options that I can wholeheartedly recommend. But first, let’s talk about why I even went looking in the first place.

Thread Carefully: Your Activewear Could Be Leaching Toxins

In recent years, researchers have found chemicals like BPA, phthalates and PFAS “forever chemicals” in workout clothing (including big-name brands). The Center for Environmental Health (CEH) has even filed lawsuits against companies like Athleta, Nike, and The North Face after tests showed their products could expose individuals to up to 40 times the safe limit of BPA under California law. (2)

BPA is a hormone disruptor that mimics estrogen, and has been linked to reproductive harm, breast and prostate cancer, and immune system suppression. (3) (4) (5) (6) It’s also classified as an “obesogen,” which is a chemical that contributes to weight gain by disrupting normal metabolic functions. (7) (8)

Unfortunately, “eco-friendly” leggings made from recycled plastic bottles sound great in theory, but they still shed microplastics and can contain the same hormone-disrupting chemicals as virgin plastic.

Microplastics: Tiny Particles, Big Problem

About 70% of clothes produced worldwide are made from plastic fibers like polyester, nylon, acrylic, and spandex. When we wash and wear these clothes, tiny fibers break off and become microplastics – which account for about 35% of all primary microplastics released into the environment. (9) (1)

Here’s why that matters:

Because of their chemical structure, microplastics attach easily to known endocrine-disrupting chemicals—including dioxins, pesticides (like DDT), brominated flame retardants, phthalates, and bisphenol A (BPA)—in the environment. That means that the endocrine disruptors go everywhere that microplastics do.” – Center for Environmental Health (1)

Workout clothes pose an extra concern because they’re tight-fitting, worn against the skin, and often drenched in sweat. Research suggests sweat may increase the chance of toxins entering the body through hair follicles, sweat glands, or skin wounds. (10) (11)

That doesn’t mean we need to banish every stretchy waistband or sports bra from our closets. Many sustainable clothing companies use a small amount of spandex or nylon to make clothing more supportive or long-lasting, especially when they’re producing activewear.

In those cases, the amount of synthetic fiber used is free of chemicals like BPA/PFAS and makes up around 5-10% of the total fabric – the rest is something like cotton or wool. That’s essentially a microplastic reduction of 90-95% for that garment, which is a big win in my book.

Also, as you’ll see below, many companies are working to transition toward natural rubber or elastane that is biodegradable.

Healthier Activewear: What To Look For

When it comes to activewear, the fabrics I prefer are made with:

Organic cotton, which is soft and breathable, though it can lose shape if it’s not blended with stretch fibers.
Merino wool, a naturally odor-resistant, moisture-wicking, and temperature-regulating option
TENCEL™ branded lyocell and modal fibers

For certain pieces – especially leggings and sports bras that need to sit skin-tight and move with you – a bit of stretch is essential.

That stretch usually comes from conventional elastane (aka spandex). As I mentioned above, the key is using it sparingly – just enough to support natural fibers rather than dominate the blend.

Many non-toxic brand have announced that they are working toward shifting toward safer spandex options like ROICA™ V550 and ROICA™ EF, which are both certified non-toxic and lower impact on the environment. It’s a process that takes time, but a step in the right direction.

The Best Organic & Natural Women’s Leggings

Before I dive into each brand, I want to share a little about my testing process. To make sure I wasn’t recommending leggings that are made with good stuff but don’t hold up in daily life, I:

Wore each pair on long daily walks (often with my weighted vest)
Used them for weight training, yoga, errands, lounging, and daily life
Washed them in the washing machine and line dried to reduce wear

I also asked my daughter to help me complete a “Squat Check” for transparency issues. When we move and the fabric of our leggings stretches – think squats, lunges, or even tying a shoe – thinner materials can become see-through. That’s what people mean when they say a pair isn’t “squat proof.”

If you can bend, stretch, and squat without revealing your underwear, congratulations – your leggings pass the squat test. To complete the check, I wore patterned underwear and squatted in good lighting while my daughter laughed . . . and checked for transparency.

After 9+ months of testing, here are my thoughts:

MATE

What it’s made of: 92% Organic Cotton, 8% Spandex

Size range: XS-XL (Biker shorts go up to 3X)

Durability: After 9+ months of regular wear, mine still look and feel great. The fabric has held its shape very well and is still buttery soft.

Squat test: Not completely opaque, but they possibly would have passed if I sized up. If you’re doing deep squats or downward dog, pair with dark underwear just to be safe.

Mate’s MOVE collection covers the full activewear spectrum – leggings, sports bras, shorts, and even socks – all made from organic cotton and non-toxic dyes. Their leggings are buttery soft, breathable, and come in several earthy neutrals plus limited-edition seasonal colors.

They offer both full-length and midi options, each available with or without side pockets, as well as capri leggings and bootcut/flare leggings (no pockets on those).

The 8% spandex adds gentle stretch and resilience while keeping the organic cotton front and center – ideal for a more natural fabric that still moves with you.

I ordered my usual size (M) and decided to exchange them for a small because they were a little loose around the ankles. They very nearly passed the squat test even though I sized down, so I think if I’d kept the mediums they would have likely been fully opaque. If you’re doing a lot of downward dog or deep squats,I suggest pairing with dark underwear just to be safe.

Bottom line: If you’re looking for non-toxic leggings that feel like soft, breathable loungewear but still look pulled together, MATE’s MOVE line is a solid pick.

SHOP MATE

BRANWYN

What it’s made of: 76% extra fine Merino wool, 14% nylon, and 10% elastane

Size range: XS-XXL

Durability: My original pair is holding up exceptionally well. The POWRspun™ Essential Compressive Leggings that were just released feel very well-made.

Squat test: See below.

I’ve been a BRANWYN customer for years – their bralette is my go-to for day-to-day comfort, and I also have and love their racerback sports bra. Last year I picked up a pair of their high-waisted leggings and wore them on repeat for 3/4 of the year (every season except summer).

Recently, I was gifted their POWRspun™ Essential Compressive Leggings, and they feel like a second skin: supportive yet stretchy enough to move freely through workouts. They use a compressive, seamless, 4-way stretch knit made with BRANWYN’s proprietary POWRspun™ Merino technology, which provides smooth, flexible support without any bulky seams.

Unlike shiny performance leggings, they have a soft, matte finish with a drier handfeel – more “natural fiber” than “slick gym spandex” – which I personally love because it breathes better and feels grounded rather than slippery.

The new leggings quickly became one of my top picks for high-intensity exercise — their compression and breathability strike just the right balance. I chose my usual size (M) and was happy with the fit, but some people recommend sizing up.

Made from 76% extra fine Merino wool, 14% nylon, and 10% elastane, they’re temperature-regulating, moisture-wicking and naturally odor-resistant – all things I love about Merino.

BRANWYN’s yarn is OEKO-TEX 100 certified to be free from harmful substances and toxic chemicals. As part of that commitment, they only use OEKO-TEX-, OEKO-TEX STeP-, and ZDHC-certified dyeing processes that are gentle on the environment and safe for the wearer.

The nylon and elastane add strength and flexibility. Nylon, in particular, tends to shed fewer microplastics than polyester, making it a better synthetic choice. BRANWYN is also working to source more sustainable versions of both.

As for coverage, these leggings aren’t entirely squat-proof. According to the BRANWYN, “Due to the unique construction used to achieve seamless compression with Merino, some transparency may occur when the fabric is stretched with deep squats, downward facing dog, or sizing down.” They suggest pairing them with their Black Essential Bikinis or Hipsters for extra assurance.

The leggings come in two lengths — a cropped style (about ¾ length) and a full-length version, both are high-waisted and offer gentle core support that smooths without feeling restrictive.

SHOP BRANWYN

Pact

What it’s made of: 90% Organic Cotton, 10% Elastane

Size range: XS-2XL

Durability: So far so good. Color hasn’t faded, seams are strong and they’ve held their shape well.

Squat test: Mostly pass. The thicker cotton fabric gives good coverage for daily movement, but if you’re planning on lots of deep squats or downward dogs, I recommend either sizing up and/or choosing darker colors and pairing them with dark underwear for extra peace of mind.

Pact’s full-length On the Go-To Leggings come in pocketed and non-pocketed versions, plus a bootcut option. You can also grab matching crop tanks or cardigans that make everything feel effortlessly coordinated.

The leggings are made with organic cotton in a Fair Trade Certified factory, using sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing practices. Pact’s production uses about 81% less water and 62% less energy than conventional cotton.

Even though the fiber blend is almost identical to MATE’s, the feel is noticeably different – thicker, denser, and more cotton-forward rather than silky. They’re perfect for yoga, walking, medium-intensity workouts and errands, but they’re not my top pick for high-drip workouts since the heavier fabric can absorb sweat. (BRANWYN is my top pick for super sweaty workouts.)

I ordered a medium in French Navy and found them to be true to size and very comfy. Overall, I think they’re a great value, especially at their price point, and I love that Pact is also an affordable source for basics like t-shirts, knit sweaters, joggers and more.

SHOP PACT

Happy Earth

What it’s made of: 95% Organic Cotton, 5% Elastane

Durability: Still holding strong after regular wear. I haven’t had any rips, though there’s a bit of light wear around some seams.

Size range: XXS-2XL

Squat test: Mostly pass. The thicker cotton fabric provides solid coverage for everyday movement, but like most natural-fiber leggings, they’re not completely immune to light visibility in deep squats or bright lighting.

Happy Earth’s PlantTec™ Organic Leggings come in both full-length and cropped styles, with several beautiful color options including Monstera, Blueberry, Black, and Redwood. I ordered a medium and found them to be true to size – soft, stretchy, and comfortable through the waist and hips.

They remind me of the Pact leggings in both texture and feel: thick, cozy, and breathable, but not ideal for high-drip workouts since the fabric can hold onto moisture.

Each pair coordinates nicely with the PlantTec™ Organic Reversible Tank, and the brand also makes matching organic hoodies, sweatpants, and sweaters, so you can mix-and-match pieces that feel put together.

Happy Earth’s leggings are made from organic cotton and produced in Fair Trade Certified factories, aligning with their commitment to ethical, low-impact manufacturing.

Click below for $10 off orders of $60 or more:

CLICK HERE FOR $10 OFF

Boody

What it’s made of: 79% Viscose made from bamboo, 15% Nylon, 6% Elastane

Durability: Good – both pairs have held up well with no fading or pilling.

Size range: XS-XL

Squat test: Transparency has been noted in newer styles (more on that below).

I ordered the Motivate Full-Length High-Waist Tights in Dark Marl (size medium) and the Full-Length Active Tights 2.0 in black (size large). I couldn’t tell a difference in sizing, but I liked the fabric blend — 61% bamboo viscose, 27% organic cotton, and 12% elastane.

Unfortunately, Boody has since reformulated that blend, replacing the cotton with nylon, which is a bit of a disappointment since I thought the original cotton mix was excellent. Some newer reviews also mention transparency issues, which may be related to that fabric change.

Currently, Boody offers two styles – full-length and ¾ length, both with a mid-rise cut. The mid-rise design may roll down slightly on curvier bodies, and black is currently the only color option.

I was originally drawn to Boody because they’re budget-friendly and seem to make a genuine effort toward sustainability. According to the company, their bamboo viscose is produced in a closed-loop system, meaning the water and solvents used to create the fabric are captured, recycled, and reused rather than released as waste. The finished fabric is OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified, ensuring it’s free from harmful chemicals. Boody also encourages customers to recycle worn-out pieces through their Goodness Loop take-back program.

With that said, I would love to see more information on how their closed loop process compares to the lyocell process used to make TENCEL™ fibers.

For now, I’ll be keeping an eye on Boody to see if they reformulate their fabric or expand their color and high-rise legging options. If they do, I’ll update this section.

FIND BOODY ON AMAZON

Brands I’d Like To Test

It’s frustrating that we even have to think about whether our leggings are safe. Clothing shouldn’t come with a side of endocrine disruptors. But the upside is that as awareness grows, better options do, too.

Healthier, high-performing leggings are out there – and they’re getting easier to find every year. Over the past year, I’ve come across several brands that look promising:

Wellicious (Code HP10 for 10% off) – Made from 87% GOTS-certified organic cotton and 13% biodegradable elastane, these vibrantly colored leggings use dyes and finishes that are completely toxin-free. Wellicious says their fabric produces zero microplastic shedding thanks to their use of biodegradable elastane.

Reprise – Their highly-rated Aspen and Sage leggings are made with 93% TENCEL™ Lyocell and 7% Spandex. I’ve heard great things about the comfort level, so they’re high on my list to try next.

AYA – According to the brand, “Not a single drop of plastic is used in our clothes.” Their leggings are made from 100% cotton — no elastane at all — and they disclose every component right down to the label ink. I’m especially curious to see how well they hold their shape over time. AYA also makes alpaca wool leggings, which sound like a cozy option for cooler weather.

Tripulse – Designed in Sweden and ethically made in Europe, these leggings feature 84% TENCEL™ Lyocell and 16% ROICA® V550, a more sustainable version of elastane that offers strong stretch and support with significantly better degradability than conventional blends.

Woolly – Made with 95% Australian merino, 5% elastane. While I haven’t had a chance to wear a pair yet, their specifications look strong. Use code MP15 for 15% off.

Beyond Leggings: My Favorite Non-Toxic Clothing Basics

If you’re ready to upgrade more than just your leggings, check out my guides on toxins to avoid in clothing, the best natural fibers, and my favorite non-toxic clothing brands (COMING SOON) to help you make more informed choices over time.