Summary: As a yoga instructor and mom, I’m intentional about what I put on my body — especially when it comes to what I work out in. When I learned that most leggings contain PFAS and plastics, I was eager to try MOVE by MATE, the brand’s PFAS-free activewear line, made from 92% organic cotton and nontoxic dyes. From the first wear, I could feel the difference from conventional workout gear. MATE makes activewear that is breathable, soft, and thoughtfully designed for movement.

What I Love:

  • PFAS-Free — Every activewear piece by MATE is made from organic cotton and nontoxic dyes, so your skin can breathe and detox safely.
  • Exceptionally Soft & Comfortable — The organic cotton fabric feels breathable, cozy, and noticeably different from synthetic spandex.
  • Flattering, Feminine Fit — High-waisted leggings, supportive bras, and cropped sweatshirts made me feel confident in the body-hugging silhouette.
  • Versatile Everyday Wear — The pieces transition effortlessly from yoga and errands to lounging at home — a true “mom uniform.”

Things To Note:

  • Runs Small — Several pieces fit tighter than expected, so take a look at my notes below for my thoughts on when sizing up is best.
  • Picks Up Lint & Pet Hair — The soft organic cotton easily picks up lint and hair, especially in darker colors.
  • Limited Support for High-Impact Workouts — The bras are best suited for low- to medium-impact activities.

In our daily lives, we’ve learned to minimize the use of plastic containers as much as possible. Most of us aim to drink from non-plastic bottles, use glass containers, and reusable grocery bags – but what about avoiding the same pesky, toxic materials in our clothing? Activewear, in particular, is made from materials far closer to plastic than you’d like to believe. Commonly used synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, nylon, and spandex, are typically made from petrochemicals and treated with chemicals known as PFAS. Given that 60% of clothing sold today is synthetic, and athletic gear usually has even higher percentages of chemically treated synthetics, I’ve started to think a bit more about what I’m purchasing when I browse leggings.

Since I’m a yoga instructor and active mama who cares about microplastics and feeling healthy inside and out, I made the switch to sustainable activewear a few years ago and haven’t turned back.

“The first time I worked out in MATE’s organic cotton, I felt the difference — breathable, soft, and no weird synthetic feel or trapped heat.”

All of this to say, I was elated to try MATE’s organic cotton-based activewear line, MOVE by MATE. Like all of MATE’s pieces, it is made from nontoxic, organic, and natural materials. The first time I worked out in MATE’s organic cotton, I felt the difference — breathable, soft, and no weird synthetic feel or trapped heat. This ultra-clean collection also features no PFAS or BPAS. Each piece in the collection is made primarily made from plants so your skin can breathe, your body can move, and you can sweat it out safely.

I got to try a few of their core styles while practicing yoga, running around with the kids, and relaxing at home. Below are my notes on the brand and my review of each piece.

About MATE the Label

MATE has been a pioneer in the organic and sustainable fashion space since its commitment to better-for-you materials in 2018. The brand is passionate about creating clean loungewear, activewear, and everyday essentials, predominantly made from organic cotton and nontoxic materials. 

The MOVE by MATE line is the latest in their 7 years of designing with safety and sustainability in mind, offering a healthy alternative to those of us who live in activewear. I also love that MATE is a women-founded and women-run brand, focusing on creating healthy and functional essentials for every woman, with a size range from XS–3X. 

“The MOVE by MATE line is the latest in their 7 years of designing with safety and sustainability in mind, offering a healthy alternative to those of us who live in activewear.”

The brand holds Climate Neutral, GOTS, and B Corp certifications that highlight its rigorous dedication to social and environmental impact. With MATE, you can always be certain you’re getting a piece that is safe and sustainably made — which is extra important when you’re moving and sweating in it.

Shipping & unboxing

My MATE workout sets arrived in a small box, and each was wrapped in a compostable bag with minimal packaging. I was impressed that I couldn’t see any plastic, and that after unwrapping each piece, I wasn’t left with a pile of trash to clean up. They were folded beautifully, with no wrinkles, making them ready to wear straight out of the box!

“After unwrapping each piece, I wasn’t left with a pile of trash to clean up.”

The softness of the pieces is what I noticed first, along with an evident attention to detail and construction. At first glance, the leggings appeared relatively small, and I was worried they would be too tight; however, the organic cotton fabric makes them ultra-stretchy. They take some wriggling to get on, but once on, they fit like a glove. More about the fit for each below. 

I was impressed that there wasn’t a big pile of plastic and waste to deal with after unboxing my MOVE by MATE clothes.

My review of MOVE by MATE

Organic Stretch Midi Legging with Pockets, Black, S | $98

In my opinion, you can never have too many black leggings. Especially come winter, that’s all I wear. These, however, are my new favorites. Unlike typical spandex leggings, these organic cotton ones feel soft and stretchy while still offering the body-hugging feel you want. I’ve also never had yoga pants with pockets, and turns out it’s a game-changer for a mom who sometimes just needs a place to put my phone. I also adore how high-waisted they are, and they’re the perfect length for my 5’4” frame since I often struggle with leggings/pants being too long. 

“Unlike typical spandex leggings, these organic cotton ones feel soft and stretchy while still offering the body-hugging feel you want.”

I should note that MATE leggings do run small. I’m between sizes, so I tried the S and XS. The small ended up fitting perfectly.  However, I should note I noticed after a full day of wear, they feel looser and stretch out a bit. I also noticed they grab lint and hair very easily (see the tiny white dog hairs in the photos). Something to keep in mind if you have pets! Keep a lint roller on hand. I’ll report back after a few washes.

A person wearing a black long-sleeve top and black leggings stands outdoors, with one hand resting on a pocket in the leggings.
A barefoot woman in black leggings and a cropped black sweatshirt stands on a wooden deck in a forested area, looking down and adjusting her top.
Note that these pants are soft and huggable, though they do run a bit small!

Organic Stretch V-Neck Bra, Black, XS | $58

This bra makes me feel sexy and even a little scandalous. Especially as someone who’s still breastfeeding and in need of support and feeling sexy in that area, this has become my new go-to bra. I adore the contour and corset-like stitching around the bottom, which gives it an ultra-feminine detail. It’s made from the same thick organic cotton spandex blend as the pants, so it feels like a sports bra. However, given the deep V, you wouldn’t want to engage in any high-impact activities.

“I adore the contour and corset-like stitching around the bottom, which gives it an ultra-feminine detail.”

I did a gentle yoga flow while wearing it, but I kept having to ensure “the girls” were secure. I ordered an XS, as per the size chart, and I’m glad I did. Given the deep V, the smaller size feels more secure and holds better. One thing to note is that there’s a band of spandex at the base of the bra, and it got twisted when I put it on again. I had to spend time untwisting it; luckily, I was able to get it back to normal.

A woman with long blonde hair wearing a black sports bra and black leggings stands outdoors near a tree, looking to the side and smiling.
A woman wearing a black sports bra and black high-waisted leggings stands outdoors with her hands visible, showing painted nails and rings.
I love this bra for when I’m looking to feel a little sexier with its ultra-feminine details, like the corset-like stitching and deep vee neck.

Organic Fleece Cropped Half-Zip Sweatshirt, Black, S | $158

I absolutely adore this sweater. This entire set has become what I’m calling my new mom uniform, and this sweater is the perfect finishing touch. I’m a huge fan of cropped sweaters or tees for the silhouette they create. This organic one is the ideal boxy crop that looks great with any high-waisted bottom. The fleece lining makes it ultra-soft and cozy, and I love the half-zipper detailing. It’s the ideal layering essential for running errands or working out. It’s an all-season closet staple that I will be grabbing to wear daily. 

A woman with long blonde hair wearing a black quarter-zip sweatshirt and black pants stands outdoors near a tree, looking down and smiling.
A woman with long blonde hair, wearing a black sweatshirt and black leggings, stands barefoot on a wooden deck outdoors near trees and grass.
This is the perfect boxy crop.for that cool, laid back look with any high waisted pant.

Organic Stretch Bootcut Pant, Pebble, XS | $108

These are a gorgeous take on a regular yoga pant. They’re made from thick, organic cotton and feature an ultra-high waist. I opted for an XS in these because of the different shape, and I’m glad I did. They fit really well through the waist and thighs; however, the boot cut style makes them a little too long for my height. I would adore it if MATE created a midi version of these that landed at my ankle instead of past my foot. But the color is a beautiful warm tone that feels airy and fresh. I’ll definitely wear these in the spring and summer with sandals.

A woman in gray loungewear stands indoors, lifting one knee to her chest while smiling. She is next to a window with light coming through.
Person wearing a matching gray sports bra and high-waisted pants standing barefoot on a rug in a room with light-colored walls and a heater on the wall.
These super thick, comfy cotton leggings run a bit on the longer side, but I enjoy adding another shape to my collection!

Organic Stretch Sports Bra, Pebble, XS | $58

For those seeking a classic yet nontoxic and organic cotton sports bra, look no further. I adore how this bra fits and feels. It’s thick and supportive, and although the site says it’s for low-impact activities, the bra feels supportive enough for higher-impact activities like walking or running. I opted for the XS, but would have been more comfortable in a size S. However, the tightness adds a layer of support.

This bra offers higher impact support with a tight band and overall tight fit.

Organic Cotton Long Sleeve Layering Tee, Pebble, S | $68

When going to and from yoga class in the winter, you need layers. I wanted something I could wear while my body warms up in class that I could easily take off once I’m warmer. I’ll also be wearing this as a go-to staple under jackets and with jeans. It’s lightweight, and since it’s made from organic cotton, it’s ultra-soft. It’s structured and fitted so it stays in place while doing yoga or working out. I opted for an S instead of an XS, and I’m glad I did. The XS would have been too tight. I also love the color for any season.

This tee is the perfect layer to add between workouts, and I love this neutral yet beautiful hue.

Organic Stretch Midi Legging, Forest, S | $88

I absolutely adore these leggings! While I love the pocket detail on the other midi style, this pocket-free version sits flatter and feels a bit more body-hugging through the waist, giving a super clean silhouette. What’s nice is that they come in both midi and full lengths, depending on your height — the midi hits me just right and even feels a touch more high-waisted than the other styles, which I love. The fabric feels slightly thicker and more supportive, even though it’s the same soft organic cotton blend, making them perfect for everyday wear or low-impact workouts. I’m typically drawn to neutrals for workout wear, but wanted to add a pop of color to my rotation. This color is the perfect earthy feel that MATE does so well.

A woman in gray athletic wear stands indoors on one leg, holding her other ankle behind her in a stretching pose.
A woman in gray athletic wear stands indoors, stretching her arms overhead to one side.
Thick, supportive, and available in two different lengths, these leggings are bound to be a crowd pleaser.


Organic Stretch Racer Tank, Forest, XS | $68

This is my favorite bra style out of the three. I love the slightly longer tank length that gives it a flattering, streamlined fit. It’s snug but still the most comfortable of the bunch. Maybe it’s the built-in shelf bra that gives just the right amount of support, but I feel the most held and confident in this one. I also love that it easily doubles as a summer tank. It looks just as good paired with leggings for a workout as it does with denim shorts on a warm day.

A woman in a grey tank top and pants.
My favorite of the three bras, this doubles as a top, with a longline shape that makes it very comfortable and also super supportive.

MOVE by MATE stands out amongst my closet of workout gear not just for what it includes — soft, breathable organic cotton that makes me feel confident — but for what it leaves behind, like PFAS and unnecessary toxins. For those seeking activewear that aligns with mindful living, MATE offers a way to move through the world — clean and connected to what matters most.

THIS STORY IS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH OUR FRIENDS AT MATE

Courtney Jay Higgins is a Contributing Editor at The Good Trade. She has a BA in Visual Communications from The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising and is the founder of Coincide, a subscription-based yoga platform focusing on inclusive, sustainable yoga rooted in ancient Eastern practices and spirituality. Her 10+ years of experience in yoga include a 200-hr YTT certification in a Hatha-based yoga practice and a certification in prenatal yoga. She has been featured in Shoutout Colorado, Voyage Denver, and Cora’s Blood & Milk. Since 2017, she has been reviewing sustainable fashion, natural makeup, organic wellness, and safe pregnancy products for The Good Trade’s readers.