Activewear Detox
“If you wear it once, you’re probably fine. If you wear it a few times, you’re probably fine. But what happens when it’s a lifetime?”
Food for thought from non-toxic living expert, Heidi Kuimjian.
I wanted to have her on the podcast because I recently became aware of a blindspot in my hormonal health. I realized the clothes that I spend almost every day in could be toxic!
What she had to say might make you rethink many of the clothes hanging in your closet.
Women’s activewear is a nearly 188 billion dollar industry worldwide. That is a monumental amount of spandex, polyester, and nylon- some of it is probably even in your closet!
In the last decade it has become more and more acceptable to wear activewear outside the gym, running errands, out to brunch, shopping, or traveling. Activewear is often convenient and comfortable, a seemingly innocuous style choice that allows you to move freely and comfortably and look sporty doing it.
So it would come as no surprise if you have yet to consider the risks associated with wearing most activewear materials over long periods of time.
Wait, what risks?
Petroleum-based fabrics + dermal absorption = potential health risks
That’s right, your activewear could be doing damage to your health!
How is this possible??
For starters, fabrics like spandex, polyester, and nylon are petroleum-derived fabrics meaning millions of barrels of petroleum are processed into chemically-treated fabrics that are not breathable. When warmed against the skin, especially during a workout, these fibers leech harmful toxins through the body’s largest organ, the skin.
Which brings us to dermal absorption. What does that mean exactly?
Dermal absorption occurs when chemicals enter the body through the skin, potentially damaging organs or other systems. Many activewear brands have been found to contain PFAS, or forever chemicals, known to be endocrine (hormone) disrupting.
That means your hormones could be taking a hit every time you wear your leggings!
Our lymphatic system, which carries fluids throughout the body, is also at risk considering there are clusters of lymph nodes in the armpits and groin- both areas that get wrapped in stretchy fabrics, holding sweat in throughout the day.
The potential health risks are varied and relatively unstudied since we’ve only been sporting activewear regularly in recent history. But if you notice puffiness, inflammation, skin rashes, or frequent yeast infections, examining your wardrobe is worth the effort.
If you want to learn more about this topic, listen to my interview with non-toxic living expert, Heidi Kuimjian, on episode 28 of the Spring to Life podcast.
Keep scrolling to learn what to look for in non-toxic activewear and shop my favorite brands!
When shopping, you always want to check the label to see what kinds of fibers the garment is made of. Mostly to all natural fibers is what you’re looking for. Examples of natural fibers are:
Cotton
Linen
Wool
Hemp
Bamboo
In contrast, you want to look out for garments made with synthetic fibers like:
Nylon
Polyester
Spandex
Rayon
Here are some of my favorite activewear brands that held up against my Pilates workouts and hikes:
MATE the Label
MATE is made sustainably in Los Angeles with non-toxic, natural, and organic materials.
Their mission is “to provide people everywhere with essentials that are clean from seed to skin.”
I will definitely be purchasing more activewear sets from MATE. The fabric holds you in but moves well during workouts without feeling too tight.
Wear Pact
“We don’t just claim sustainability, we certify it. We proudly partner with Fair Trade USA, Global Organic Textile Standard and SimpliZero to ensure our products, and our processes support both people and planet.”
Pact’s activewear fabric is a little thicker, which I’ve found perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking. I want the skort in every color!
“We lead a new generation of clothing brands that manufacture their own garments in full transparency. Our brand is built on top of one of the most sustainable clothing factories in the world, working in harmony.”
Groceries uses fruits and vegetables like avocado and onion skins to dye their non-toxic clothing. The result are some really beautiful hues. Use code SPRINGTOLIFE to save 20% off your purchase of $100 or more!
It’s important to remember that we’re not aiming for perfection here! Completely overhauling your closet in favor of natural fibers, while admirable, is exactly realistic. Continue wearing your current clothes, being mindful of how much time you spend in them outside your workout. Change into something breathable as soon as you can. When it’s time to purchase something new, opt for a natural fabric and enjoy how fresh and breathable it feels!
