Non-Toxic Tennis Wear
Q: Can your activewear impact your health?
A: In short, yes. Read on to find out how.
Your skin is your largest organ and can absorb that which it comes into contact with. Studies have shown that chemicals can run off of fabrics upon contact with the skin. A 2018 study even found that prolonged exposure to a chemical commonly used in clothing dyes called benzothiazole (BT) resulted in the uptake of BT into the body, raising a growing concern for the ability of chemicals to run off of fabrics into the body upon contact with the skin. This is especially true when you sweat, as sweat can pull chemicals off fabrics and into the body.
This is where activewear comes in, as it sits closest to the skin and to your most sensitive and highly absorbent assets when you are sweating. Unfortunately, most activewear is made out of petrochemical-based, synthetic (read: plastic) fabrics and treated with toxins, without a disclaimer of “wear at your own risk” attached. Many pieces by big brands have even tested positive for endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as BPA (Nike, Pink, Athleta - to name a few. Read more here.) and PFAS (ahem, Lululemon). This is why it is best to opt for natural fibers that are not processed with toxic, synthetic chemicals.
p.s., don’t forget to wear your non-toxic underwear while working out! See our guide on recs here.
Let’s Build a Non-Toxic Tennis Fit
Instead of working out in synthetic fibers doused in endocrine-disrupting chemicals, check out these natural brands
The Skort ~
The Socks ~
MATE The Label 15% off with code 15LYDIAD
Definite Articles 20% off with code DAYINTOEVE
The Tennis Shoes ~
Zen Running Club 30% off with code LYDIA30
Guide to Shopping for Non-Toxic Activewear
LOOK FOR
Plant-based fabrics
Organic Cotton
Tencel
Linen
Hemp
Fabric ratio natural to synthetic
Rule of thumb: higher natural fabrics and lower synthetic, the better
Such as, 90-92% natural to 8-10% synthetic
Note: many pieces will have a small % (8-10%) of spandex or elastane to give it stretch. If the majority of the fabric is plant-based, this is still a good option!
Tested free from endocrine disruptors, such as BPA and PFAS
Certifications:
OEKO-TEX ~ for non-toxicity
GOTS ~ for organic fabrics
bluesign ~ for clean chemistry and dyes
AVOID
Synthetic fabrics
Polyester
Nylon
Recycled synthetics
Toxic finishes
Sweat-wicking/moisture-resistant ~ as these are mainly synthetic/PFAS-based treatments
Antibacterial
Large logos/prints
Many are phthalates-based