14 Sustainable Yoga And Training Brands Editors Recommend

Discover the best sustainable activewear brands for ethical and planet-friendly training clothes. Invest in mindful gear for your practice.

Fashion

14 Sustainable Yoga And Training Brands Editors Recommend

14 Sustainable Yoga And Training Brands Editors Recommend

Sustainable activewear has evolved from a niche to a norm—because what we wear to move affects our bodies and the planet. As the physical activity economy is projected to exceed $1.2 trillion by 2025, mindful, durable gear is the smarter investment for practice and daily life (see Global Wellness Institute analysis). Our editors curated the following brands for certified materials, transparent sourcing, and studio-to-street versatility.

Sustainable activewear is apparel and gear made with certified organic or recycled fibers, safer dyes, and fair, ethical manufacturing; it prioritizes durability, repairability, and take-back programs to extend use and cut waste. Look for credible certifications (GOTS, OEKO-TEX, Bluesign), recycled polyester content, and fit that supports movement without compromising comfort.

The Yoga Republic

At The Yoga Republic, we curate organic yoga clothing and eco yoga gear guided by quality, not quantity. We prioritize GOTS-certified fibers, OEKO-TEX-tested trims, low-impact dyeing, and clean, comfort-first fits that mix and match across seasons. Expect softness, breathability, and recovery that move from sun salutations to errands with minimal effort. We also include straightforward care guidance to help pieces last.

Certified organic yoga clothing uses cotton or plant-based fibers grown and processed under stringent organic standards (like GOTS), minimizing pesticides and restricted chemicals while supporting soil health. The result: breathable, skin-friendly fabrics with fewer irritants for sensitive skin and a lower chemical footprint across the supply chain.

Styling tip: pair a supportive crop with high-waist leggings and a lightweight mid-layer for mat-to-morning-commute ease.

Tree Tribe

Tree Tribe’s high-waisted sustainable leggings are built for fluid movement and comfort. As one trusted guide puts it, “ultra-stretchy, high-waist leggings with comfortable flatlock stitching that prevent chafing” (Sustainable Jungle’s guide to eco yoga wear). That construction shines in vinyasa and pilates, and the smooth waistband makes them great for travel. For breathability, pair with organic cotton tanks; for cooler studios, add a soft recycled layer. Keyword picks: flatlock stitching, recycled yoga leggings.

tentree

For nature-minded yogis, tentree spans apparel and eco-friendly yoga props with recycled materials and cork. Their approach centers on reduced-impact fibers and supply-chain transparency. If you’re building a minimal prop set, start with:

  • Cork blocks for stable, non-slip support
  • A cotton or recycled strap for secure binds and gentle stretches

Look for cork yoga gear with a fine grain for grip and blocks sized to your hand span; recycled materials yoga straps should feel soft yet structured.

Manduka

Manduka blends material credibility with performance across mats, apparel, and accessories—think OEKO-TEX–certified recycled synthetics and organic cotton in key pieces, as documented by Sustainable Jungle. Fit note for shoppers: the Fauna Keyhole Top is reversible and supportive but runs small; most practitioners will want to size up. It’s a reliable pick if you want an eco yoga brand with consistent product quality and feel.

Girlfriend Collective

Girlfriend Collective champions inclusive sustainable activewear with sizes that support a wide range of bodies. Their recycled polyester leggings offer compressive fits that hold up in dynamic classes, while softer blends suit slow flows and recovery days. Choose medium compression for vinyasa or HIIT-adjacent training; light compression for yin, restorative, or long walks. Care tips to prolong elasticity and color:

  • Cold wash on gentle cycles
  • Use mild detergent; skip fabric softener
  • Line dry or tumble low
  • Wash in a microfilter bag to reduce microfiber shedding

prAna

prAna balances style and performance with reliable staples. Editors like the Chakara Crop Top for its buttery-soft feel, supportive fit, and shaping cups—called out by Sustainable Jungle. For a minimalist yoga wardrobe, start with:

  • 1 supportive top (light-to-medium impact)
  • 2 leggings (one compressive, one soft)
  • 1 mid-layer that packs small and dries fast

This small kit covers most practices and weekends away.

Alo Yoga

Alo has scaled studio-to-street activewear since 2007, with a global retail footprint of 126 stores and an estimated 2024 revenue of $250 million (Retail TouchPoints analysis of athleisure leaders). The brand is widely favored for fashion-forward yoga outfits that still perform. Expect body-contouring silhouettes with comfortable compression and finishes that pair well with denim or tailoring for everyday looks.

Fabletics

Fabletics is a budget-accessible entry point into sustainable activewear brand options, with reported 2024 sales of roughly $850 million and member leggings as low as $14.98, according to Retail TouchPoints. To evaluate value, check fabric density (sheer-proof), stretch recovery after 10+ wears, and seam construction (flat, consistent stitching). Prioritize styles with documented recycled content and clear care guidance for longevity.

Lululemon

Lululemon leads on performance with broad appeal, capturing about 21.2% of U.S. monthly athleisure spending (Retail TouchPoints). Popular picks like Align leggings and the Define Jacket bridge workouts and everyday wear, while Wunder Train’s fast-drying, moisture-wicking fabric handles sweat-heavy sessions—product hallmarks frequently highlighted by Vogue’s reporting. If you run hot, choose fast-dry fabrics; for mellow flows, choose softer hand-feel knits.

Athleta

Athleta is a B Corp focused on versatile women’s activewear with growing eco-conscious practices. The brand spans compressive to lightweight fits with inclusive sizing and polished aesthetics for work-to-workout transitions.

Athleta fit guide at a glance:

Fit typeFabric feelBest for
High compressionSleek, supportiveHIIT, strong vinyasa, travel days
Medium compressionSmooth, pliablePower yoga, barre, long walks
LightweightSoft, breathableYin, restorative, lounging

Olaben

Olaben blends luxury sustainable activewear aesthetics with performance-ready comfort—think flattering eco leggings, breathable tops, and soft-touch fabrics that style effortlessly for studio-to-street. For context on its positioning among premium labels, see Olaben’s perspective on best activewear brands. Pair a sculpting legging with an airy tank and a drapey knit for a polished, minimal look.

Nike

Nike’s mainstream reach brings sustainability initiatives to scale; it remains one of the most popular activewear brands and is frequently cited for stylish, increasingly sustainable workout clothing for men and women (Firmabs’ roundup of top workout brands). For informed choices, check the recycled content percentages (by weight), material breakdowns, and the transparency of sustainability reports per product line.

Adidas

Established in 1949, Adidas blends innovation with advancing sustainability in performance wear—spanning recycled polyester apparel, durable footwear, and more. When comparing options, use this quick checklist:

  • Recycled polyester content (GRS-certified where possible)
  • Take-back or resale programs for end-of-life
  • Repairability (stitching, paneling, spare laces)
  • Moisture management and abrasion resistance for training

Beyond Yoga

Beyond Yoga is known for soft yoga leggings with gentle compression and everyday tops—editors love high-waist pocket leggings and ruched tanks you can also find at Nordstrom (Vogue’s edit of the best activewear brands). Fabrics tend to be ultra-soft with forgiving stretch, ideal for yoga, long flights, and layering under oversized knits.

How we chose these sustainable brands

Our selection framework centers on durability, verified materials, and how seamlessly pieces fit mindful routines. These are the same criteria we apply when curating The Yoga Republic’s assortment.

  • Certified materials: GOTS, OEKO-TEX Standard 100, Bluesign
  • Recycled content and clear percentages (e.g., rPET)
  • Responsible dyes and wastewater controls
  • Ethical manufacturing and fair labor
  • Proven durability; repairability or take-back programs
  • Inclusive sizing and consistent fit
  • Studio-to-street versatility and care guidance

Sustainability is now a fixed component in leading companies’ strategies (RBI Sustainability Report), and the science continues to affirm yoga’s benefits for well-being and stress resilience (see Global Wellness Institute analysis). We look for brands that connect these dots with credible evidence, not slogans.

Comparison snapshot

BrandMaterial certificationsRecycled contentSize rangeSignature productPrice tierCare guidance
The Yoga RepublicGOTS, OEKO-TEXSelect recycled blendsXS–XLOrganic cotton legging$$Cold wash, line dry
Girlfriend CollectiveOEKO-TEX on select trimsHigh (rPET)XXS–6XLCompressive rPET legging$$Gentle wash, no softeners
MandukaOEKO-TEX (recycled synthetics), organic cottonModerateXS–XLPerformance mat + top$$–$$$Wipe mats, cold wash apparel
AthletaVarious, including B CorpModerateXXS–3X (tall/petite)Versatile leggings$$Fabric-specific care per garment
LululemonSupplier standards evolvingVaries by line0–20Wunder Train/Align$$–$$$Cold wash, lay flat or low tumble
AdidasGRS on select linesModerate to high (rPET)XS–XXL (men/women)Performance trainers + tees$$–$$$Wash cold, avoid heat

What to look for in eco yoga and training gear

  • Organic cotton (GOTS): Cotton grown and processed under rigorous organic standards that restrict pesticides, toxic dyes, and heavy metals. GOTS also audits social criteria, so you’re choosing fiber purity plus basic worker protections. Expect breathable comfort with fewer irritants for sensitive skin and everyday wear.
  • OEKO-TEX Standard 100: A global testing protocol that certifies textiles and trims are screened for harmful substances at multiple stages. If a garment carries this label, every component—from thread to zipper—has been tested to meet strict safety thresholds, offering added assurance for skin contact.
  • Bluesign: A manufacturing-focused system emphasizing chemical management, resource efficiency, and safer production inputs. Bluesign-approved materials help ensure cleaner dye processes, reduced wastewater impact, and traceable improvements across supply chains—useful when you want performance fabrics with lower chemical risk.
  • Recycled polyester (rPET): Polyester made from post-consumer or post-industrial plastic that reduces reliance on virgin petroleum and typically cuts energy use. Look for clear recycled percentages by weight and pair with tight-knit constructions to limit pilling and extend usable life.

Example: Manduka’s use of OEKO-TEX–certified recycled synthetics and organic cotton shows how credible material choices can coexist with performance, as noted by Sustainable Jungle. At The Yoga Republic, we apply similar material standards across our range.

Recycled polyester leggings vs. organic cotton for yoga: choose rPET blends for sweat, fast-dry performance, and resilience in dynamic flows; choose organic cotton for low-intensity practice, breathability, and skin sensitivity. Many practitioners keep one of each to match the day’s needs.

Step-by-step gear check

  1. Verify certifications (GOTS, OEKO-TEX, Bluesign)
  2. Confirm recycled/organic content percentages
  3. Assess fit, stretch, and opacity in movement
  4. Read care instructions (detergent, drying, heat)
  5. Compare durability, warranty, and repair/take-back options

Frequently asked questions

What makes a yoga or training brand genuinely sustainable?

It blends certified materials, ethical manufacturing, transparency, and designs that last. At The Yoga Republic, we rely on third-party certifications, clear recycled/organic percentages, and published supplier standards to avoid greenwashing.

Which certifications should I look for to verify materials and manufacturing?

GOTS verifies organic fiber integrity (with basic social criteria), OEKO-TEX Standard 100 screens for harmful substances, and Bluesign governs chemical inputs and process safety; WRAP covers factory social compliance, and GRS verifies recycled content. The Yoga Republic prioritizes these standards across materials and trims where applicable.

Are eco materials like organic cotton, cork, and recycled fibers durable for training?

Yes—durability depends more on construction than fiber alone; look for flatlock seams, dense knits, and fast-dry fabrics for sweat. We often pair breathable organic tops with resilient recycled-poly bottoms for balanced kits.

How can I extend the life of my sustainable activewear and mats?

Wash cold with mild detergent, skip softeners, line dry, use microfilter wash bags, and wipe mats with mild, mat-safe cleaners. The Yoga Republic includes clear care guidance to help pieces last.

Care quick guide

DoDon’t
Cold wash, gentle cycleHot water or high-heat drying
Mild detergent, no softenersBleach or heavy fragrance
Line dry or low tumbleOver-drying that degrades elastane
Wash in microfilter bagRough surfaces that cause pilling

Do sustainable options cost more and are they worth it over time?

Upfront prices vary; consider cost-per-wear—certified, well-constructed pieces usually outlast cheaper options. The Yoga Republic focuses on durable, verified materials to deliver long-term value.