I don’t know about you, but when I first started paying attention to what I was wearing to the gym, I realized something uncomfortable: so many of my leggings and sports bras were made in ways I’d rather not support. Fast fashion, unfair wages, synthetic fabrics that shed microplastics… the list goes on.
And yet, I also didn’t want to give up on performance. I love my morning runs, my yoga practice, and those sweaty HIIT sessions that leave me feeling alive. What I wanted was activewear that didn’t just look good and perform well—but also felt right in my heart.
Over the years, I’ve discovered some incredible brands that are proving you don’t have to compromise. You can choose clothing that supports your movement and your values. So, if you’ve been searching for ethical activewear that actually performs, here are 10 brands that I’ve either tried myself or have researched deeply—and I’d happily recommend them to a friend over coffee.
1. Girlfriend Collective
The first time I slipped into a pair of Girlfriend Collective leggings, I couldn’t believe they were made from recycled water bottles. They’re compressive yet soft, stay in place during squats, and the brand is crystal clear about its supply chain. Their transparency makes you feel like you’re truly part of the solution.
Why I love them: inclusive sizing, sustainable fabrics, and colors that make even a rainy workout day feel bright.
2. Pact
Pact is known for its organic cotton, and while many think of them for basics, their activewear is seriously underrated. The breathability of organic cotton makes their leggings and tops perfect for lighter workouts like yoga or barre. Plus, knowing that farmers and workers are paid fairly adds a deeper layer of comfort.
3. Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices has this way of making movement fun again. Their motto, “Doing Things,” feels freeing. I’ve worn their TechSweat line on long runs, and it keeps me cool without that sticky feeling some synthetics cause. They’ve made big efforts toward recycled fabrics and ethical production.
4. Boody
If you’ve never worn bamboo fabric, Boody will surprise you. Their leggings and bras are buttery-soft, moisture-wicking, and incredibly breathable. The fact that bamboo is one of the most sustainable plants out there makes it even better.
5. Wolven
Wolven doesn’t just make activewear, they make art. Their prints are vibrant and rooted in sacred geometry, so wearing them feels joyful. Every piece is made from recycled plastic bottles, and they’re climate-neutral certified. I love that they turn sustainability into something expressive and fun.
6. Tentree
Every time you shop at Tentree, they plant—yep, you guessed it—ten trees. Their activewear isn’t just about performance, it’s about leaving the planet better than we found it. Their joggers and sports bras are soft, durable, and designed for real life as much as workouts.
7. Organic Basics
This brand focuses on simplicity and timelessness. Their SilverTech activewear stays fresh longer (thank you, anti-odor fabric) and is made with recycled nylon. I find their minimalist designs so refreshing—it feels like buying fewer, better things.
8. Patagonia
Patagonia almost needs no introduction. They’ve been pioneers in ethical and sustainable fashion long before it was trendy. Their activewear is rugged, long-lasting, and made for people who actually use it outdoors. Hiking, climbing, trail running—you name it, they’ve thought about it.
9. Prana
Prana has been one of my go-to’s for yoga wear. They prioritize fair trade, use organic cotton, and work with recycled materials. The fit is always comfortable without being restrictive, which is exactly what I want when I’m flowing through sun salutations.
10. Athleta (B Corp Certified)
Athleta is part of the Gap Inc. family, but they’ve set themselves apart by becoming a certified B Corporation. That means accountability—not just in how they treat workers, but also in their environmental standards. Their Powervita leggings are some of the most supportive and flattering I’ve ever tried.
Final Thoughts
When I first started caring about where my activewear came from, I worried it would be hard to find pieces that felt good, looked good, and actually lasted through workouts. But these brands prove that you don’t have to choose between your values and your performance.
Whether you’re rolling out your yoga mat, heading to a spin class, or just running errands in your favorite leggings (no shame, we’ve all done it), you can move in clothing that supports you and the world around you.
At the end of the day, activewear should do more than make you sweat—it should also make you proud of the story you’re wearing. 🌍✨
