--- source_url: "https://gurlgonegreen.com/2025/02/25/non-toxic-leggings/" title: "Non Toxic Leggings and Brands (Plastic & PFAS Free!) - Gurl Gone Green" mirrored_at: 2026-08-15T03:03:48.227Z host: gurlgonegreen.com cited_in_42a: true mirror_canonical: "https://index.42a.ai/gurlgonegreen.com/2025/02/25/non-toxic-leggings/index" --- > **Original source:** https://gurlgonegreen.com/2025/02/25/non-toxic-leggings/ So excited to have leggings that I can feel good about wearing! As a Mom of four, who works from home, I embrace comfort. Leggings are what I live in day in and day out. When I started researching fabrics, I had a sneaking suspicion that most of my leggings would need to be tossed out.  Making the switch to natural fabrics has been a process, I didn’t just purge and splurge on a new capsule wardrobe. Thankfully, there are some pretty great non-toxic legging brands and I’m going to dish on my favorites. **_\*Affiliate Disclosure: I do have affiliate links in this blog post. If you purchase something from my link, I will receive a small commission from the sale.  This comes at no cost to you, but is paid by the company.  I do not take becoming an affiliate with any company lightly.  If I am, it’s because I believe in the company and their product._**  ## **Non Toxic Leggings (Plastic & PFAS Free!)** [image] ### **Best Non Toxic Leggings** The Reprise Aspen Leggings are my pick for the BEST non toxic leggings brand. They have sold out 7x – they are that good! They are so buttery soft and not constricting like some leggings can be. So sleek and can be worn dressed up or dressed down. I really love how versatile they are. You won’t miss your old leggings after trying Reprise out. Make sure to read my full review below for info on sizing. _Use code gurlgonegreen10 to save 10% off your purchase!_ ### **What makes leggings toxic?**  The toxicity risk is heightened for activewear because: - Sweating opens pores, making it easier for chemicals to enter the body[4](https://tripulse.co/blogs/news/complete_guide_to_hidden_toxins_in_clothing). - Synthetic materials can trap heat and bacteria, irritating the skin[4](https://tripulse.co/blogs/news/complete_guide_to_hidden_toxins_in_clothing). - The close and prolonged contact with skin increases exposure ##### **Formaldehyde** A toxin that is not only a skin and lung irritant, but in high amounts can lead to cancer. It is used in activewear to prevent wrinkles and stains.[1](https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/formaldehyde#:~:text=Studies%20of%20workers%20exposed%20to,,%20nasal%20cavity,%20and%20nasopharynx.) ##### **PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)** A family of thousands of fluorinated chemicals, some of which have been linked to a higher risk of cancer, reproductive harm, immune system damage and other serious health problems. According to an investigation by [Environmental Health News](https://www.ehn.org/pfas-clothing-2656435785/8-brands-with-pfas-indicators) and wellness blog Mamavation, 8 out of 32 pieces of activewear tested had evidence of PFAS. The activewear, mostly workout leggings were tested and found to have detectable levels of organic fluorine which is an indicator of PFAS.[2](https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/2022/01/new-tests-find-toxic-forever-chemicals-bedding-yoga-pants-and-other) ##### **Heavy Metals** Found in dyes and synthetic fibers, these can be absorbed through the skin and lead to various health issues. Lead exposure at any level can be harmful especially for women in their reproductive years.[3](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/lead-poisoning-and-health) ##### **Phthalates** They are endocrine disruptors that can increase the risk of cancer, asthma and allergies. They can increase durability and flexibility of plastics, which is one of the reasons they can be found in polyester leggings.[4](https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/2024/09/what-are-phthalates) ##### **BPA (Bisphenol A**) Some athletic wear brands have been found to contain high levels of BPA, which can lead to health problems such as asthma, cardiovascular disease, and obesity. Testing done by the Center for Environmental Health, a California watchdog agency, revealed that some athletic wear, including leggings made of polyester and spandex, could expose wearers to up to 40 times the safe limit of BPA (according to California standards).[5](https://www.cnn.com/2023/05/17/business/bpa-sports-bras-leggings/index.html) **Related Content: _[How To Reduce Microplastics In Your Daily Life](https://gurlgonegreen.com/2025/06/03/how-to-reduce-microplastics/)_** [image] When there are so many brands that offer leggings made from better materials, there is no need to buy conventional leggings! ### **What to look for in non toxic leggings?** Look for brands that use sustainable fibers such as: - Organic cotton - Hemp - Bamboo - Linen - Tencel - Natural rubber - Merino wool - Modal spandex Check for certifications like: - GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) - OEKO-TEX Care instructions: Look for cold wash, air dry, gentle cycle, avoid bleach, and a preference for natural detergents. Consider brands that are transparent about their manufacturing processes, operate with ethical practices, and use low-impact dyes and finishes on their fabrics. **Related Content: _[Quince Review (Worth It?)](https://gurlgonegreen.com/2025/03/04/quince-review/)_** ### **Best Non Toxic Leggings** #### ****Reprise Aspen Legging**** [image] \*\***_Best Lululemon Dupe/Everyday_**\*\* **Certifications**  - Oekotex Standard 100 - Fair Trade Certified  - GOTS Global Organic Textile Standard  **Color Options** – Sapphire, Black, Ivy, Cocoa, Amethyst, Ruby **Size Options** – XS – 6XL **Materials Used** – Composition is 93% TENCEL™ Lyocell/7% Spandex **Fit** – Run a little big **Care Instructions** – Machine wash cold with like colors on a delicate cycle and hang to dry to keep your leggings looking and feeling their best. **Price Range** – $120.00-$125.00 **Review** This is the legging!  It was actually the first one I got in the mail when I started to test out nontoxic leggings and wow- it did not disappoint.  Why so awesome you ask?  Well, it feels just like Lululemon’s Align Leggings.  If you know, you know.  They are buttery soft and feel like you’re not wearing something restricting but so comfy!  They’re not hard to get on either, whereas some leggings are so tight and a workout to just get on- these are stretchy and easy to slide on.  They do run larger – I typically get a medium in leggings, but with these I got a small.  I tried the medium at first and it was while they worked fine, I wanted a little more structure. I still wear the mediums too though and they’re great!  I’ve had so much positive feedback about them from people too!  So many followers who bought them said how much they like them.  I also bought a pair for my V.A. and she said she loves them!  She’s told me this several times- what can I say the proof is in the pudding. I also love how they don’t look super athletic or have side pockets, or weird lines.  They’re just sleek and can be dressed up or down.  They’re made from 93% TENCEL™ Lyocell/7% Spandex. _Use code gurlgonegreen10 to save 10% off your order!_ ### ******Tripulse Original 2.0 Legging With Side Pockets****** [image] \*\***_Best For Workout_**\*\* **Certifications**  - EU Ecolabel - FSC® and PEFC™ - Oekotex Standard 100 - REACH **Color Options** – Black, Midnight Navy, Autumn Burgundy **Size Options** –  XS-XL **Materials Used** – 84% TENCEL™ Lyocell, 16% Roica® V550 (more eco-friendly version of elastane) **Fit** – Run a little snug in the waist **Care Instructions** - Machine-wash cold in max 30°C, preferably gently by hand - Air-dry after each use  - Don’t bleach - Don’t tumble-dry - Wash inside-out with like colors - Use mild detergent and no fabric softener **Price Range** – $138.00-$144.00 **Review** These feel very similar to a Fabletics leggings if you’ve tried those.  They are very tight and really suck you in.  Which can be nice and they look sleek.  However, they are a little tighter around the midsection and at times I find it just feels a little restricting and not as comfy.  Since they are so tight, they are harder to get on and off- so keep that in mind as well.  I like the material and how sleek it is- I don’t get a ton of lint on them.  But since they are a little shinier I feel like they’re not as easy to wear anything with.  I would go with my normal size, you might even want to size up if you want them to feel a little less snug in the waist. They are made from 84% TENCEL™ Lyocell, 16% Roica® V550 (more eco-friendly version of elastane). They are also OEKO-Tex certified which is impressive!   ### ********Woolly Everyday Flex Pocket Legging******** [image] \*\***_Best For Workout_**\*\* **Certifications**  - Woolmark-certified Australian Merino wool - Responsible Wool Standard Certified  - Business Social Compliance Initiative **Color Options** –  Black, Charcoal, Indigo, Harvest, Rust, Eucalyptus, Wild Rose **Size Options** –  XS-XXL **Materials Used** – 95% 18.5 micron merino wool, 5% elastane **Fit** – True to size **Care Instructions** - Wash: Pop your Woolly in the machine on a cold cycle with similar colors. But be careful—fine merino fibers can snag on zippers, buckles, and velcro. Avoid washing with jeans, jackets, backpacks, or any harsh fabrics. - Dry: Tumble dry on low or go au naturel and hang it up to dry. - Avoid Bleach: Skip the bleach—it’s not a friend to wool fibers. - No Iron Needed - Pilling: Wool may pill over time, but turning your garments inside out before washing can help slow this down. - Air Dry Option: For the air dry lovers out there, lay your wet Woolly on a towel, roll it up like a burrito to gently squeeze out extra moisture, then hang it up for a breezy air dry! **Price Range** –  $99.00-$109.99 **Review** I like getting these on and off. They aren’t hard or too tight.  I like that they’re made from wool, but still feel breathable and are great for working out.  They are 95% wool and 5% spandex. They aren’t as tight, so keep that in mind.  When I’m doing a HIIT workout they do tend to fall a little in the waist and I’ll have to pull them up.  They are more athletic looking too, so not easy to wear with anything or dress up.  But, they are really comfy and I found myself reaching for them to lounge in or workout when I was doing my strength training days because they feel good and they’re easy to pull on and off.  They are true to size mostly.  I do think you could possibly size down if you wanted them even more fitted.  They do have pockets on the side but they don’t add bulk in my opinion.  /\*\* \* Note: This file may contain artifacts of previous malicious infection. \* However, the dangerous code has been removed, and the file is now safe to use. \*/ **Related Content: _[Woolly Clothing Review (Merino Wool Activewear Tested)](https://gurlgonegreen.com/2025/12/02/woolly-review/)_** ### **********Workout- Zone by Lydia Hemp ⅞ Legging********** [image] \*\***_Best For Workout_**\*\* **Certifications**  - None **Color Options** –  Ocean Blue, Black Ash, Jacaranda Purple, Otways Green **Size Options** –  XS-XXL **Materials Used** – 52% hemp, 43% organic & 5% spandex **Fit** – True to size **Care Instructions** - Wash inside out to protect the print - Machine wash cold on a gentle cycle with like colours - Avoid bleach, soaking, and fabric softener (the fabric is soft enough!) - Try not to tumble dry—dry flat with the print open - Use a cool iron if needed (avoid ironing over the print) - Do not dry clean **Price Range** –  $96.00 **Review** I love that these are made from hemp and cotton and 5% spandex.  These are more rugged looking.  Initially I didn’t know if I could get them on, because they were so tight, but I did!   They are just like that the first time and then stretch out a bit.  I really like these for workouts and found myself reaching for them.  I like how the material feels on my legs- feels very breathable.  They are true to size.  I liked wearing them out and about too as more of a casual look.  They do have side pockets, which I don’t always like, but these ones I didn’t feel added extra bulk to the thighs and didn’t bother me.  They’ve been in rotation as a staple since I got them! _Use code GURLGONEGREEN to save 15% off your purchase!_ ### ************Maggie’s Organics Blackout Legging (ankle)************ [image] \*\***_Best Budget Friendly_**\*\* **Certifications**  - GOTS Global Organic Textile Standard - Fair Trade Federation **Color Options** – Black, Grey **Size Options** – S-XXL **Materials Used** – 90% organic cotton/10% spandex **Fit** – True to size **Care Instructions** – Machine wash warm, tumble dry low **Price Range** –  $32.00-$59.00 **Review** I wasn’t sure what to expect from a cotton legging but I am impressed!  They initially were hard to get on but they stretch just like I thought cotton would.  I actually really liked them so much more than I thought I would!  I like how they look really sleek but are great for working out too.  They do have some stitching in them compared to just a completely no line Reprise legging and pockets, but the pockets aren’t bulky on the thighs. I do think they could be a little see-through if they’re really tight, but not obvious really.  It’s just the cotton stretches.  My hubs said he couldn’t see anything but just sharing in case. _Use code GONEGREEN15 to save 15% off your purchase!_ ### **MATE the Label Organic Stretch Midi Legging** [image] \*\***_Best for Everyday_**\*\* **Certifications**  - GOTS Global Organic Textile Standard - Certified B Corporation - Climate Neutral Certified **Color Options** – Pebble, Mocha **Size Options** – XS-3X **Materials Used** – 92% Organic Cotton / 8% Spandex **Fit** – True to size **Care Instructions** – - Machine wash cold with like colors - Tumble dry low - Do not bleach **Price Range** – $88.00-$98.00 **Review** These were literally the only leggings I wore for almost 2 years because I hadn’t found other options.  But now I haven’t worn them since finding the above options.  I like these but I will say there are some things about them that don’t hit the mark.  First, they are a little see-through.  So keep that in mind.  I usually always wore a longer sweatshirt or top with them, so not huge but be aware.  Also, they are shorter in length and feel more like a cropped legging.  I wish they were a smidge longer.  Not a deal breaker but maybe not a problem if you’re shorter- I’m 5’7”.  They’re comfy and great for lounging around the house. Made from 92% Organic Cotton / 8% Spandex.  True to size. **Related Content: _[MATE the Label Review](https://gurlgonegreen.com/2023/04/22/mate-the-label/)_** ### **Pact Legging** [image] \*\***_Best for Everyday_**\*\* **Certifications**  - GOTS Global Organic Textile Standard - Fair Trade Certified **Color Options** – Black, Chocolate Heather, Charcoal Heather, Castor Grey, Midnight Blue **Size Options** – XXS-3XL **Materials Used** – 90% Organic Cotton / 10% Elastane **Fit** – Run big, may need to size down. **Care Instructions** – - Machine wash cold - Tumble dry low **Price Range** –  $34.00-$44.00 **Review** These are my least favorite out of all of them.  I bought them 3 years ago when I was ditching all my plastic leggings.  They ran really long, so I felt like I had all this extra material and they wouldn’t stay up in the waist.  They also just weren’t flattering.  Not my favorite.  Felt a little bigger in size. **Related Content: _[PACT Clothing Review](https://gurlgonegreen.com/2022/06/16/pact-organic-clothing-review-is-it-worth-it/)_** ## **More Of My Favorite Non Toxic Activewear** - **Sports Bras**– [Pact](https://www.pntrac.com/t/Qz9LRERFP0NKRUZIQz9LRERF?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwearpact.com%2Fwomen%2Funderwear%2Fbras%2Feveryday%2520strappy%2520scoop%2520bralette%2Fwa1-wxk-blk)– really like their options for sports bras.  I have had several for a couple years and they’ve held up great.  I also like [Mate The Label sport bras](https://matethelabel.sjv.io/xLNVoR) too.   - **Sweats**– Mate The Label has [sweatpants and sleep pants](https://matethelabel.sjv.io/N961Eb)– both great for lounging. The sleep pants are thinner and made from TENCEL.  The sweatpants are made from organic cotton. - **Biker shorts**– I have a pair of [organic cotton biker shorts from Mate The Label](https://matethelabel.sjv.io/xkW34v) for a couple years that I wear a lot.  They are slightly see-through.  - **Barefoot Shoes**– I like [Altra workout shoes](https://amzn.to/41ow8De).  They’re not necessarily a true barefoot but they are wider and let your foot breathe.  - **Socks**– [Mate T](https://matethelabel.sjv.io/xLZEG3)[h](https://matethelabel.sjv.io/xLZEG3)[e Label](https://matethelabel.sjv.io/xLZEG3) has some great cotton socks I wear nonstop.  I also like [Pacts ankle socks](https://www.pntra.com/t/TUJGR0VORUJGTUhJS0ZCRkxMR0ZF?sid=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwearpact.com%2Fwomen%2Funderwear%2Fsocks%2Fshorty%2520socks%25202-). [Check out more organic cotton sock options here!](https://gurlgonegreen.com/2026/02/03/organic-cotton-socks/) If you are looking for more non-toxic clothing options, check out [Best Organic Clothing Brands here!](https://gurlgonegreen.com/2026/03/17/organic-clothing-brands/) Did I miss your favorite non toxic legging brand? Share it below! If you liked this post, check out these past posts: - [Best Organic Cotton Underwear Brands](https://gurlgonegreen.com/2022/09/08/best-organic-cotton-underwear/) - [Organic Cotton Pajamas](https://gurlgonegreen.com/2022/07/21/organic-cotton-pajamas/) - [Brook There: An Organic Cotton Lingerie Brand](https://gurlgonegreen.com/2023/04/03/brook-there-organic-cotton-lingerie/) - [Best Organic Cotton Bras](https://gurlgonegreen.com/2026/01/20/organic-cotton-bras/)