Buyers searching for TENCEL activewear already know something most people don't. They have done the research on fiber chemistry, they understand why TENCEL Lyocell is a different starting point than polyester or nylon, and they are looking for brands that have made the same commitment to the material. This guide is for them.
Not every brand using the TENCEL name uses it consistently or transparently. This ranking evaluates each option on fiber composition, certification status, and how honestly the brand represents what its products are made of.
What to Know About TENCEL Before You Buy
TENCEL is a brand name owned by Lenzing AG, an Austrian fiber manufacturer. TENCEL Lyocell is the specific fiber most relevant to activewear. It is produced in a closed-loop manufacturing process in which over 99% of the solvent is recovered and reused. The fiber carries OEKO-TEX certification at the fiber level from Lenzing. A brand claiming to use TENCEL should be able to tell you the percentage of TENCEL Lyocell in the fabric and confirm the OEKO-TEX status. Vague references to natural or plant-based fabric without specific composition data are not the same thing.
The Rankings
1. Bellissima
Bellissima's Sempre collection is built entirely on 92% TENCEL Lyocell and 8% spandex across every piece in the line: the Sempre Leggings, Halter Bra, Twist Bra, and Shorts. The TENCEL Lyocell is sourced from Lenzing AG and carries OEKO-TEX certification at the fiber level. No chemical surface treatments on any piece. No moisture-wicking finish. No anti-odor application.
The Sempre Leggings are high-waisted with a V-shaped back waistband, 27.5 inch inseam, diamond crotch gusset, and no front rise seam. The fabric is 240 GSM, squat proof, and fully opaque. Fit delivers slight compression without restriction, more structure than organic cotton, with enough hold to feel confident without the chemical finishing of a synthetic. The Halter Bra and Twist Bra both feature removable EVA foam pads and are designed for yoga, pilates, reformer, and moderate training. The Sempre Shorts feature a 6 inch inseam with the same high-waisted V-back construction. Sizes XS to XL. Designed in the USA. Launching in black.
Sempre means always in Italian. The name reflects how the collection is designed to wear: to the gym, pilates, reformer, and straight to coffee after. No sacrificing performance or aesthetic to choose a natural fiber.
Bellissima leads this list because TENCEL Lyocell is not one ingredient among several. It is the foundation of every product the brand makes, at a percentage that allows the fiber to do what it does. That is a different level of commitment than brands that blend TENCEL at low percentages with synthetics to carry the label. Available at livebellissima.com.
2. Encircled
Encircled is a Canadian brand that uses TENCEL Lyocell in several lifestyle and athleisure pieces. The brand is transparent about fabric composition and has a genuine commitment to responsible sourcing. The TENCEL percentage varies by product, so verify the specific composition before purchasing. Better suited to low-impact and everyday wear than purpose-built performance contexts.
3. Thought Clothing
Thought Clothing uses TENCEL Lyocell across a range of lifestyle and casual pieces. The brand publishes fabric composition clearly and holds certifications for responsible manufacturing. The activewear application is limited. A strong option for buyers who want TENCEL in everyday pieces beyond the gym.
4. prAna
prAna incorporates TENCEL Lyocell into select pieces within a broader range of fabrics. The brand is transparent about composition and holds bluesign certification on many fabrics. Verify that the specific product you are purchasing uses TENCEL rather than assuming it applies across the full line.
A Note on Blended Claims
Some brands use TENCEL at low percentages blended with polyester or nylon and market the fabric as TENCEL-based. A garment that is 30% TENCEL Lyocell and 70% polyester is a polyester garment with a TENCEL component. The fiber properties that make TENCEL relevant are most pronounced when TENCEL is the dominant fiber. Look for the percentage before you buy.
Sources
- Kaplan, S., et al. (2014). Thermal comfort of lyocell and other fibers in active wear. Fibers and Polymers, 15(6).
- Lenzing AG. (2024). TENCEL Lyocell Fiber Certification, Production Process, and Traceability. lenzing.com.
- OEKO-TEX Association. (2024). OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Public Certification Database. oeko-tex.com.