Beyond the Sweat: The Hidden Microplastics in Your Activewear

When we think about clean living, our minds often go to skincare, diet, or even non-toxic cleaning products. But what about the clothes we wear during our workouts? It’s a question gaining traction as more consumers become aware of what’s hiding in their activewear. From microplastics to hormone-disrupting chemicals, the truth is: not all fitness gear is created equal. Enter the emerging world of non-toxic activewear—a movement that’s rewriting the rules of performance fashion.

The Microplastic Problem in Activewear

Most workout gear is made from synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, or spandex—plastic-based fabrics that may seem practical (hello, stretch and sweat-wicking) but come with a hidden cost:

• Microplastic Shedding: Every wash can release thousands of microfibers into our waterways. These microplastics are too small to be filtered out and end up in our oceans, tap water, and even our bodies. (IWTO)
  
• Toxic Finishes & Dyes: Many clothes are treated with chemical coatings for wrinkle resistance, water repellency, or antibacterial properties—some of which include a class of chemicals known as PFAS.
  
• End-of-Life Issues: Synthetic fabrics don’t biodegrade. Most end up in landfills or incinerators, contributing to both pollution and carbon emissions.

Wait, What Are PFAS?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used for decades to make products resistant to water, stains, and heat. They’re commonly found in nonstick cookware, food packaging, firefighting foam—and yes, activewear.

The problem? PFAS are nicknamed “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily in the environment or the human body. Over time, they can accumulate and have been linked to serious health risks, including:

• Hormonal disruption
• Immune system suppression
• Reproductive issues
• Certain cancers

One study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that many workout clothes tested positive for high levels of PFAS, especially those labeled as “moisture-wicking” or “water-resistant.” (The Guardian)

So while that budget workout set you found on Amazon or Shein might look cute, it’s worth asking: at what cost?

What Is Non-Toxic Activewear?

Non-toxic activewear is designed to be safer for you and the environment. This means:

• Made from natural or plant-based fibers (like hemp, organic cotton, or bamboo)
• Free from synthetic plastic fibers
• Colored with non-toxic, certified dyes
• Produced without chemical coatings, plasticizers, or harmful additives
• Often biodegradable or recyclable at end-of-life

It’s a tall order—and that’s where trailblazing brands like Namarie and MATE the Label come in.

Namarie: A Microplastic-Free Approach

Founded with the goal of fusing performance and purity, Namarie (namarie.com) is one of the first brands to offer fully non-toxic, microplastic-free workout apparel. Instead of polyester or spandex, Namarie uses:

• Sylvendel® Fabric: This proprietary blend features 78–91% regenerative hemp and 9–22% bio-based elastane made from corn—not fossil fuels—providing stretch without the synthetic fallout.
• Non-Toxic Dyes: Garments are dyed with OEKO-TEX 100 certified reactive dyes—meaning no PFAS, azo dyes, or other harmful substances.
• Biodegradable & Regenerative: From soil-enriching hemp farming to plant-based packaging, the brand leans fully into sustainability. They even plant trees after each harvest in what they call the “Namarien Wood.”

For more on their philosophy, check out their About Us page.

MATE the Label: Clean Essentials from Seed to Skin

Another brand making strides in non-toxic activewear is MATE the Label. Their commitment to sustainability and health is evident in their product lines:

• Organic Materials: MATE’s clothing is made with 100% certified organic cotton, ensuring that no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides are used.
• Non-Toxic Dyes: They use low-impact dyes that are free from harmful chemicals, reducing skin irritation and environmental impact.
• Plastic-Free: MATE has eliminated all plastic in their labels and packaging, and their MOVE by MATE line uses only 8% spandex, significantly less synthetic fiber than typical activewear.
• Ethical Production: All products are made in Los Angeles, supporting fair labor practices and reducing carbon emissions associated with long-distance shipping.

MATE’s mission is to provide people everywhere with essentials that are clean from seed to skin. Learn more about their approach on their About page.

Final Thoughts

Non-toxic activewear isn’t just a fashion trend—it’s a wellness upgrade. While no brand is perfect, companies like Namarie and MATE the Label offer compelling alternatives for those looking to minimize chemical exposure, microplastic pollution, and environmental harm.

Because the truth is, your workout clothes shouldn’t be compromising your health—or the planet’s. Sometimes, investing in quality over quantity isn’t just smarter—it’s cleaner, safer, and more aligned with the way we want to feel.

So next time you gear up for a workout, ask yourself: What am I really putting on my skin?