Choosing the right gym outfit can boost your workout experience, blending style with practicality. Today’s gym wear is all about keeping you comfortable and looking great, whether sweating it out in a high-intensity class or stretching during a yoga session. Think moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you dry, flexible materials that move with you, and supportive pieces like leggings and sports bras that fit just right.
Best Workout Outfits: What to Wear for Every Routine
Pilates
Pilates is sticking around, whether you’re on a megaformer, using a Cadillac, or just doing mat work. To stay stylish and comfy:
- Go for a matching powder blue set from Outdoor Voices.
- Grab some grip socks from Pointe Studio to keep your footing secure.
- Add Bala’s bars and bangles to your routine for an extra challenge, and don’t forget a Hydro Flask to keep you hydrated throughout your workout.
Running and Walking
For your next run or walk, a matching set from Tory Sport will keep you looking stylish and put-together. Pair it with On Cloud’s super comfy sneakers for a cushioned, supportive feel, and use Stanley’s tumbler to stay hydrated throughout your workout. The Oura Ring is ideal for tracking your progress and staying motivated by monitoring every step and helping you achieve your fitness goals.
Yoga
Alo Yoga’s plum-colored bra and leggings are comfy and flexible for your yoga practice, making them perfect for flowing through poses like downward dog and cobra. Pair them with their yoga mat and sweat-resistant towel in smoky quartz to stay dry and supported. After your class, use the Theragun Mini to help relax sore muscles and speed up recovery.
HIIT
For high-energy HIIT classes like spin or boot camps, a sweat-resistant outfit and matching track jacket from Adidas by Stella McCartney will keep you looking sharp and comfortable. Add some neon Nike sneakers and coordinating Socksss for a stylish touch and the proper support while you tackle the treadmill.
Ballet and Barre
At the barre, embrace your inner ballerina with a stylish set from Live The Process paired with cozy, slouchy socks from Skims for extra comfort. Remember to bring your essentials from Gaiam and Lululemon to complete your workout setup and ensure you have everything you need for a great session.
Tennis
Hit the courts wearing Girlfriend Collective’s hunter green tennis skirt, and after your game, store your racket in a stylish, embellished tote from Brother Vellies. Keep cozy with Tory Sport’s classic chevron sweater and protect yourself from the sun with a cap from Sporty & Rich. A pair of Tretorn sneakers will always add a touch of timeless style.
Snow Sports
With ski season in full swing, make a statement on the slopes with Banana Republic’s quilted puffer jacket, Khaite’s ‘Millen’ top, and stylish ski pants from Jetset. After a day on the mountain, slip into Khaite’s ‘Culver’ shearling-lined booties for a chic aprés-ski look. And for extra coziness, check out the accessories from La Double J and Apparis—they’re perfect whether you’re hitting the slopes or relaxing.
Cool Down
After a challenging workout, unwind with some relaxing essential oils from Public Goods and get comfy in a loungewear set from Éterne. Slip into shearling-lined Birkenstocks for added coziness and give yourself a relaxing at-home massage with Lululemon’s foam rolling set.
7 Best Workout Outfits for 2024
Athleta
Gap’s sister brand, Athleta, is a top choice for workout gear that can keep up with your most demanding sessions. They offer more than just the basics, including stylish jackets, comfy travel pants, and pickleball outfits that work both on and off the court. “Athleta is great for everyday essentials and has a wide range of styles that fit many activities beyond just gym workouts and running,” says Liz Schmoll, a UESCA-certified running coach and ISSA-certified personal trainer.
Colorfulkoala
Amazon shoppers and TikTok users are all about Colorfulkoala’s workout gear, praising the leggings as “so cute,” “so soft,” and “almost a perfect dupe for Lululemon’s buttery-soft Align leggings.” The brand offers more than just leggings—they also have comfy workout tanks, sports bras, and bike shorts. “They’re budget-friendly, available right on Amazon, and offer a great selection for almost any workout,” says a certified personal trainer, Kaufman-Van Ommeren, from South Orange, New Jersey.
Lululemon
Lululemon is renowned for its high-quality workout gear, and it lives up to the hype. “The free on-site tailoring is fantastic, especially for shorter folks like me,” says Miller. “Out of all the pieces I’ve owned over the years, only a few have shown signs of wear.”
Their leggings are a standout, feeling like a second skin, and great for everything from workouts to casual outings. “I love the Align pants for their high waist, soft fabric, and versatility,” says Molly Rice, a yoga instructor. “They keep me comfortable and stylish, whether I’m doing yoga, getting wet, or heading out.”
Alo Yoga
Alo has a fan base that includes Kendall Jenner, Jennifer Lopez, and Kaia Gerber, and it’s clear why. Their workout clothes fit great, whether you’re doing yoga or walking your dog. Schmoll says almost all her clients have Alo gear, and Kaufman-Van Ommeren calls it “cool, comfortable, and incredibly durable.”
The brand offers innovative fabrics like Airlift and Alosoft, which are breathable and high-performing. Their collection features everything from classic leggings to trendy pieces like pleated tennis skirts and asymmetric sports bras. “The Airlift tights are fantastic,” says Miller. “The waistband stays in place, even during intense workouts.”
Girlfriend Collective
Girlfriend Collective offers affordable, size-inclusive athleisure from recycled plastic and fishing nets. Their flared leggings and tennis skirts are trendy colors like lilac and sage. Kristine Thomason from Glamour says she’s been impressed with the brand’s high-quality, versatile, and comfortable activewear.
Nike
Nike is a top pick for workout gear, loved by pro athletes and everyday users. They offer a wide range of leggings, hoodies, running shorts, and tanks in straight sizes. Nike’s designer collaborations keep their gear stylish and high-performance. Schmoll swears by their sports bras for outstanding support and size options, while Lampa praises their comfy tennis skirts and shorts. Kaufman-Van Ommeren likes Nike by You for customizing colors and styles.
Adidas
Adidas, with its signature stripes, is a leader in sustainable activewear. They use recycled plastic in collaboration with Parley for the Oceans and offer collections made from recycled polyester. Their partnership with Stella McCartney highlights their commitment to eco-friendly fashion. Thomason praises Adidas for its innovative and well-designed workout gear.
Where to Find the Best Workout Outfits
Consider where you shop for the perfect workout outfits. Various retailers offer a range of options, from high-performance gear to stylish and budget-friendly choices. Here’s a quick guide to finding the best workout outfits that meet your needs, whether you’re looking for top brands, specialized gear, or convenient shopping experiences.
Nike
Nike’s gear is all about delivering top-notch performance and cutting-edge innovation. Their workout outfits feature advanced fabrics and smart designs that enhance comfort and support, helping you perform at your best. Whether you’re hitting the gym or going for a run, Nike engineers its gear to keep you feeling great and focused throughout your workout.
Adidas
Adidas seamlessly blends style with functionality, ensuring you look great while performing at your best. Their performance gear is top-quality and designed to support your active lifestyle. Additionally, Adidas stands out with exciting collaborations and a solid commitment to eco-friendly practices, so you can feel proud of your purchase while staying on trend.
Under Armour
Under Armour designs high-tech fabrics for optimal performance, earning it widespread renown. Their gear features advanced moisture-wicking and compression technologies that help you stay dry and supported. Whether pushing through a challenging workout or just aiming for comfort, Under Armour’s clothes are built to help you excel and feel great.
Lululemon
Lululemon excels at combining style with performance in their activewear. Their durable and comfortable clothes look fantastic, perfect for intense workouts and casual lounging. You get the best of both worlds—functionality and flair.
Athleta
Athleta provides workout wear that’s both stylish and functional, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and sustainability. They offer diverse sizes and eco-friendly options, so you can look good and feel confident knowing your gear supports your workout and the planet.
Amazon
Amazon offers an extensive selection of workout clothes from various brands, often at competitive prices. With customer reviews and a user-friendly shopping experience, finding the perfect gear to fit your needs and budget is manageable.
REI
If you’re passionate about outdoor activities, REI is an excellent go-to. They offer a wide range of durable, high-performance gear designed to withstand harsh conditions and handle the elements. Whether hiking, camping, or exploring new trails, REI’s gear ensures you’re well-equipped for any adventure, combining functionality and reliability.
Dick’s Sporting Goods
Dick’s Sporting Goods boasts a diverse range of workout outfits from numerous brands, making it easy to find what you’re looking for. They cater to various preferences and budgets, offering high-end and budget-friendly options. Plus, if you prefer a hands-on approach, you can try on clothes in-store to ensure a perfect fit and style before purchasing.
Make your exercise routine more enjoyable and stylish
Workout outfits should prioritize comfort, enabling complete freedom of movement without causing chafing or irritation. Look for performance fabrics that effectively wick away sweat and regulate temperature, as these features enhance overall effectiveness and keep you comfortable during intense activity. Style also plays a role; choosing the best workout outfits that you find visually appealing can boost your confidence and motivation. Achieving the right balance of comfort, functionality, and style will help you get the most out of your workouts and make your exercise routine more enjoyable and effective.