Can you work out in cotton?

Yes, you can absolutely work out in cotton — and for many types of exercise it is a perfectly good choice. Cotton is soft, breathable, hypoallergenic, and does not trap odors the way polyester does. For low-to-moderate intensity activities like yoga, strength training, walking, and Pilates, cotton performs well and feels comfortable against the skin.

The main criticism of cotton is that it absorbs and holds moisture, which can make it feel heavy during intense cardio or long runs. However, newer blends that combine organic cotton with a small percentage of elastane or with merino wool address this while keeping the fabric predominantly natural. The key is matching the fabric to your activity level.

ONDU features activewear from brands that prove natural fibers can handle serious workouts — without relying on petroleum-based synthetics.