Microplastics and “forever chemicals” feel unavoidable in so many aspects of life. From kitchen products, to cleaning supplies, and even our food and clothing – I’ve been really trying to make it a point to research exactly what I’m bringing into my home, and non-toxic activewear is a whole new layer of microplastics we should be more aware of.

Everything You Need To Know About PFAs

First, let’s quick breakdown what defines the “toxic” in “non-toxic”. PFAs (per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals used often for their water and stain resistant properties. Found in cookware, clothing, cosmetics, food packaging, and more, these chemicals don’t break down; which is why we refer to them as ‘forever chemicals’. PFAs accumulate over time and can cause serious health conditions like cancer, immune system suppression, hormonal disruption, and more.

Why Non-Toxic Activewear Matters

PFAs can leach into your skin through sweat and prolonged contact (and if you’re anything like me, I live in my activewear). PFAs are linked to hormone disruption, weakened immune function, and other health complications that are highly concerning.

To prioritize my overall health, hormone health, and fertility, I avoid activewear with PFAs. Spoiler alert: the amount of big brands using PFAs shocked me.

Hormone Health

PFAs can actually mimic hormones, especially estrogen. This can lead to hormonal imbalances causing early puberty, menstrual irregularities, fertility problems, and hormone-sensitive cancers (breast, ovarian, etc.).

PFAs can also bind to hormone receptors, preventing the body’s natural hormones from doing their job. This interference can disrupt thyroid function, which can cause hypothyroidism, adrenal fatigue, reduced testosterone levels, metabolism disfunction and energy regulation.

The Non-Toxic Activewear I Love

When creating Recreation Sweat, we wanted to be conscious of the look of our activewear, of course, but the material also mattered. Our line of activewear has always been PFA-free and I’m so proud of that.

I love the look and fit of these pieces. I feel better about wearing my activewear all day knowing I’m not exposing myself and my family to forever chemicals.

Recreation Sweat activewear is non-toxic, plastic free, and made without harmful chemicals. Non only is it better for your hormones, but it feels great on your body. Stretchy, compressive, and soft.

More brands that focus on the material include: MATE the Label, QUINCE, Organic Basics, Aya, Happy Earth.


Welcome! I’m Rachael.

I enjoy sharing my love for food and fitness. I'm a registered dietitian, certified personal trainer, and a New York Times Bestselling author. Here you'll find all kinds of recipes and kitchen hacks, as well as workouts and fitness motivation. Enjoy! — xx Rachael

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  1. Hi Rach! Of increasing concern to hormonal health is also the types of dyes used and how toxic they are, fabric composition, and type and minimization of stretchy fabric inside our clothing including spandex, elastane, etc. Would you consider adding more transparency on your RecSweat brand regarding types of dyes used? And, while recycled polyester is a great sustainable practice for the earth, natural fibers like organic cotton & hemp are some fabrics that are amazing for human & hormone health– would you ever consider adding a natural fibers line!? 🙂 🙂 🙂 Thank you for this awareness, I love your RecSweat bands, and I love the other brands you mention, too. Thank you for all you do!