Most sportswear today is made with polyester, nylon, or spandex – synthetic materials that are essentially plastic. They’re stretchy, sweat-wicking, and convenient, but they come with a hidden cost: microplastics. Every time synthetic activewear is washed, tiny plastic fibers shed and make their way into our water systems. These particles are now found everywhere – in ocean floors and Arctic snow, and even inside our bodies. If that sounds grim, it’s because it is. But there are brands out there doing things a little better.
If that sounds grim, it’s because it is. But there are brands out there doing things a little better.
Two fit young women in workout attire posing confidently against a clear blue sky.

Here are some standout options for plastic-free activewear that’ll still give you comfort, breathability, and performance:

1. Boldwill

Formerly known as Iron Roots, Boldwill makes activewear that’s 100% plastic-free. Their pieces are naturally breathable and antibacterial thanks to materials like hemp, TENCEL™, and organic cotton. Each item on their site is labeled with the ideal activity (e.g., high-intensity vs. everyday wear), so you know exactly what you’re getting.

🌍 Ships from the Netherlands. International shipping available.

2. Tripulse

Tripulse is a Swedish brand making truly plastic-free activewear from TENCEL™ and Roica V550 (a compostable stretch fiber). Their leggings and tops are designed for performance but still prioritize comfort, breathability, and sustainability. Everything is made ethically in Europe and completely free of microplastic-shedding synthetics. It’s one of the only options out there that’s genuinely functional and plastic-free.

🌍 Ships from Sweden. Delivers worldwide.

3. Asquith

Asquith’s plastic-free yoga and loungewear blends bamboo with organic cotton for soft, breathable activewear. These aren’t high-performance gym clothes, but they’re perfect for yoga, pilates, or just a chill day at home.

🌍 Ships from the UK. Delivers internationally, including the US and EU.

4. Pangaia (select styles)

Pangaia is a materials science brand known for innovation. While most of their clothes do include synthetics, they’ve started offering plastic-free options made from seaweed fiber and organic cotton, dyed with natural botanical pigments.

🌍 Ships from the UK. International delivery available.

5. Maggie’s Organics

While not exactly a performance brand, Maggie’s Organics makes super comfy leggings and sports bras made with organic cotton and no synthetics. They’re best for light activity, lounging, or layering.

🌍 Ships from the US. International shipping available.

6. Rawganique

Rawganique is one of the few brands offering totally plastic-free basics, from sports bras to bike shorts, made from organic cotton, hemp, and linen. They’re not super stretchy, but they are breathable and durable, and perfect if you’re trying to avoid synthetic blends altogether.

🌍 Ships from the US. International shipping available.

7. Vatter

This German brand focuses on sustainable underwear and loungewear made from GOTS-certified organic cotton. They offer minimalist, sporty styles like bralettes and cotton shorts that work well for light workouts or everyday movement.

🌍 Ships from Germany. Ships within the EU and to select international locations.

8. Runderwear (select styles)

While most Runderwear includes synthetics, their Eco range is made from biodegradable TENCEL and designed for runners. It’s a good plastic-free option if you’re looking for running-specific performance underwear.

🌍 Ships from the UK. International shipping available.

A young woman in activewear holds a yoga mat while enjoying a sunny day outdoors.
Woman practicing yoga in a seated pose on a sandy surface outdoors. Emphasizes mindfulness and healthy living.
Woman in yoga pose on mat in tranquil forest setting, promoting mindfulness and wellness.

Why Plastic-Free Sportswear Matters

We’ve known for a while that microplastics pollute oceans and harm marine life – but now they’re showing up in human blood, lungs, and even breastmilk.

And what’s one of the biggest sources? Washing synthetic clothing. So if you’re not able to make the switch to natural-fiber activewear just yet, try using a Guppyfriend washing bag in the meantime. It captures microfibers from any synthetic clothes you wear, helping to reduce the plastic load while you transition your wardrobe.

Choosing plastic-free fabrics isn’t just about avoiding petrochemicals – it’s a small step toward protecting both the planet and our own health.