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Whether you’re a casual runner signing up for a 5K or an aspiring pickleball player, these activewear stores will be your go-tos. Clothes
Gone are the days when you’d throw on old shorts and a baggy cotton t-shirt for your daily workout. Today, the best workout clothes for women come in a dizzying array of styles and colors that are constantly changing with the trends, and they feature thoughtfully engineered designs (think: quick-drying fabric and plenty of pockets) to make your workout clothes both comfortable and functional.
There’s no shortage of places to peruse when shopping for the best women’s workout clothing, but the best activewear brand for a dedicated cyclist may be different from what a yogi wants in her fit-wear. As long-time editors and fitness enthusiasts, we've thoroughly tested the best places to shop for workout clothes for women, no matter your budget, favorite activity, or style.
The Aloversary Sale is in full swing, with major deals on some of Alo Yoga's most popular pieces. Our picks: the Airbrush Real Bra Tank (30% off), the Aces Tennis Skirt (50% off), and the High-Waist Airlift Legging (40% off).
Why We Like It: There’s technical, athlete-first apparel for every sport imaginable.
It’s Worth Noting: Its designs are more sporty and casual than luxe athleisure.
Nike may be best known for its wide range of shoe styles that can be worn on the street just as easily as in the gym, but the workout apparel covers every sport you could possibly want to play — from running to yoga to pickleball. Its innovation-focused clothes put the athlete first with technical, engineered features that improve comfort and performance, all in the name of making everyone feel like an athlete. The brand’s Nike By You feature lets shoppers design their own custom shoes for an extra stamp of creativity. In recent years, Nike has released yoga and maternity lines to cater to a broader range of fitness lovers. Nike's workout clothes for women stay true to the brand’s sporty, athletic heritage, so if you want a more luxe, high-fashion look, you’re better off shopping at Alo Yoga or Lululemon. Nike does have a plus-size section on its website, with sizes ranging from 0X to 4X.
We love that these strength-training shoes have a wide, stable base — so we were able to lift heavier, longer.
Why We Like It: The budget-friendly basics outperform their price tags.
It’s Worth Noting: The designs and color palettes tend to be pretty basic and traditional.
TBH, we were a little surprised when a Champion sports bra won us over in our hunt for the best sports bras for large chests. However, we were blown away by the quality of the sports bra we tested, which clued us in that we should be wearing more Champion workout clothes in our day-to-day lives. The price tags are unbeatable, considering workout clothes for women are usually sort of expensive; in fact, lots of Champion workout tops come in at $30 or less, and its workout leggings (which can run upward of $90 at Lululemon) are often $50 or less. But if you’re a fitness fashionista, Champion may not be for you. Its designs are largely neutral and traditional, with lots of grays and blacks. You won’t find tons of on-trend or colorful options here. We also found the plus-size styles to be a little lacking, and they’re only available in sizes 1X to 3X.
We found this sports bra to be comfortable and supportive. We were (very pleasantly) surprised that despite being only $40, it held up well after several washes.
Why We Like It: Lululemon workout clothes are typically very high quality and last forever.
It’s Worth Noting: The prices are among the highest we’ve seen.
While they may be pricey, Lululemon products cover all your fitness wear (sports bras and bike shorts, check!) and athleisure needs (cute joggers and sweatshirts, yep!). Lululemon leggings may start at $88 and climb to a lofty $198, but you're paying for quality, sleek silhouettes, and technical features. Whether you're a runner, yogi, or boxer — or reserve your workout clothes for plane rides and errands — the brand has everything you need to get your sweat on or to travel in style. Size-wise, Lululemon workout clothes for women tend to run a tad small, so size up if you’re unsure. Its sizes range from 0 to 20.
Not only are the pockets clutch, but the Align style of Lululemon leggings is famously stretchy and still supportive. We found ourselves reaching for these leggings day after day.
Why We Like It: HeatGear and ColdGear help you comfortably work out outdoors, no matter the weather.
It’s Worth Noting: They’ve recently expanded into performance running shoes, with the UA Flow Velociti Elite.
No longer just about undershirts, Under Armour mixes style with the function of HeatGear and ColdGear, for those who want to take their workout clothes from gym to out in nature. The HeatGear fabric (like on this tank top) is soft, lightweight knit that wicks sweat and dries quickly, while ColdGear is made from 100% recycled Polartec fleece that provides warmth without weighing you down (which we especially loved in fleece-lined leggings for running). The extended sizing ranges from 1X to 3X, but with more colors and varieties available than we saw on Champion’s website.
While Under Armour has been in the shoe game for quite awhile, they just launched a performance running shoe that we’ve tested on the track ourselves. The Flow Velociti Elite running shoe has a light mesh upper and a full-length, carbon fiber plate for a fast, explosive feel. Heads up: The sizing is unisex.
The stretchy, buttery fabric hugs our bodies without squeezing, and we especially loved them for low-impact workouts outside. And yes, there are pockets. Looking for more Under Armour leggings? We also love the brand’s no-slip waistband leggings which come in various rises.
Why We Like It: Adidas frequently collabs with iconic designers (see: Beyoncé, Stella McCartney) for sporty takes on fashion trends.
It’s Worth Noting: Collabs can sell out quickly in popular sizes, so if you see something you like, snag it.
It may be performance-based, but gear from Adidas looks good, too. The budget-friendly retailer partners with designers such as Stella McCartney, Prada, Pharrell, and even Beyoncé for clothes that cater to fashion-conscious athletes. Its running gear is also top-notch, and you can’t go wrong with the signature Adilette Slides (if you played high school soccer in the 2000s, you definitely still have a pair of these).
Props to Adidas for making a plus-size collection (sizes 1X to 4X) in gorgeous colorways that don’t feel totally separate from the “standard” sizing. We’re particularly obsessed with these classic leggings. Pair them with the brand's Adicolor Trefoil sweatshirt, which looks super flattering worn over any leggings.
Featherlight and cloudlike in its cushioning, the Adidas Ultraboost Light is a little sturdier in the toe, which gave us a feeling of liftoff with every step. In fact, one of our editors recently wore it to run the Boston Marathon.
Why We Like It: Wild designs and creative color play make you stand out in a sea of neutrals.
It’s Worth Noting: Sizing is limited, topping out at XXL.
This London-based, celeb-loved brand's focus is fit, fabric, and fashion, so you look and feel great while you sweat. Sweaty Betty pieces can be pricey, but you're paying for features you won't see anywhere else, such as asymmetric mesh panels and bold patterns. Try one piece (like this seamless tank top) and you'll realize the clothes' quality is worth every penny. Note that the sizing isn’t as inclusive as other brands on this list. Most pieces run from XXS to XXL without specialty extended sizing.
We love that these two-in-one running shorts didn’t ride up during any of our test runs, and the thick waistband hides a zippered pocket for our keys and cards.
Why We Like It: The signature Airlift fabric sculpts and hugs your body, with a four-way stretch to move with you.
It’s Worth Noting: The size range is the most limited of all the workout clothes we tested.
Mindful, movement-inspired yoga pieces are Alo's specialty. All of the workout clothes for women from Alo Yoga move with your body, making them ideal on or off the mat. Alo Yoga leggings are especially perfect for yoga—not to mention for barre fitness class—thanks to four-way stretch, breathable performance fabric, and a smoothing front panel that lets you go commando if that’s your vibe. We also love that every piece is available in a variety of “Core” colors and limited-edition trendy shades, which make it easy to mix and match. The brand’s designs are also more fashion-forward than others, perfect for true studio-to-street style.
With leggings starting at $98, Alo Yoga workout clothes can be as expensive as Lululemon or Sweaty Betty, two of the priciest options we tested. Most disappointingly, the sizing ranges are incredibly limited. At time of publish, only four types of leggings and one tank top were available in a size XL.
This celeb-approved long-line tank is made with moisture-wicking fabric and a thick, comfy band that didn’t crush our ribs, even after hours of wear, and moved with us as we flowed through the most challenging poses. Read our full review of the Alo Yoga Real Bra Tank here.
Why We Like It: Reebok’s Lux sports bras and leggings are form-fitting and supportive, so they don’t distract you during major lifts.
It’s Worth Noting: Other training gear isn’t quite as comfortable.
Gym devotees, the best workout clothes for leg day, upper body day, and whatever else you’re training for come from Reebok. The brand’s Lux line is especially well-suited to the gym, with form-fitting designs that won’t hinder your workout and angled seams that follow your body’s natural curves for fewer distractions. Outfit yourself head-to-toe by lacing up the latest Nano X4 Training Sneaker, aka the “official shoe of fitness.” It features a stable platform for lifting and enough lightweight cushioning to make it appropriate for short sprints — not a feature you normally find in gym shoes.
The wide, flat base let us plant our feet confidently while lifting heavy, and we noticed that the 7 mm drop is comfortable enough for short runs (which makes the Nanos a little different from the Metcons).
Why We Like It: From dad shoes to cloud-like cushioning, New Balance nails footwear.
It’s Worth Noting: Sizing can vary on some of the most popular sneaks.
Whether you’re looking for a trendy casual sneaker or the best-cushioned running shoe around, you’ll find it at New Balance. The Fresh Foam cushioning softens impact, making running easier on your joints, and some shoes even feature a GORE-TEX waterproof fabric for extra protection from the elements. Of course, New Balance is also famous for its classic, casual sneakers that stand the test of time in style and durability. (P.S. If you remember the first time these kicks were popular, it’s time to start saving for retirement.)
We compared this lightweight shoe to running on clouds, with a stretchy knit upper that let our toes move freely. This running shoe would be an especially great pick for people with bad knees who want to minimize impact.
Why We Like It: Asics’ super-supportive sneaks are approved by runners, nurses, and other people who are on their feet constantly.
It’s Worth Noting: The designs are chunky, so if you’re a minimalist, Asics may not be your vibe.
Toe the start line at a 5K, half marathon, or endurance race, and you’re sure to see runners decked out in Asics gear. Whether it’s the brand’s Gel-Kayano 29 (which is editor-approved for runners with knee pain) or the Gel-Nimbus 26 with pull-tabs on the back for easy wear, Asics knows runners. Asics shoes may be the star of the show, but don’t overlook the clothing, either. The leggings are often seamless to prevent any irritation over long runs, and running jackets are technical enough to keep your dry and speedy. The clothing may not be as trendy as other luxury workout clothes for women, but trust, they’ll get the job done.
The lightest-feeling running hat we tested, we also loved that this cap had thoughtfully placed mesh panels to prevent overheating.
Why We Like It: The bright, playful colors are designed for all kinds of movement, not just hardcore HIIT.
It’s Worth Noting: The brand is best known for its variety of exercise dresses.
All the cool kids are wearing Outdoor Voices — and for good reason. The brand offers playful pieces such as pastel color-blocked leggings and leopard print workout dresses. The brand has also made a public commitment to rely on ethical production practices and sustainably-sourced fabrics. Sizing ranges from XXS to XXXL, and pieces can be worn for everything from hot girl walks to pickleball to hiking.
Want to try the viral exercise dress that put Outdoor Voices on the map? The original has adjustable straps, built-in shorts, and sticky grips on the hems of the shorts. But since it first launched, the brand has expanded its dress offerings to include options without shorts, styles in sturdier fabrics, and models with built-in bras.
With just a touch of compression for a body-skimming fit, this dress is made of quick-drying fabric that prevented us from overheating. Heads up: It’s not very supportive, so we’d recommend wearing a bra underneath.
Why We Like It: The classic, modest cuts are a little less revealing than other brands and come in a wide array of sizes.
It’s Worth Noting: Athleta also has an Athleta Girl line for the mini-mes in your life.
Owned by Gap, Athleta is definitely a bit more wallet-friendly when it comes to activewear. And yet its workout clothes (especially Athleta leggings) stand up to bigger name brands such as Adidas and Lululemon thanks to its durable fabrics, technical features, and fashion-forward designs. The brand should be your go-to for running and training apparel, yoga and hiking wear, casual travel style, women's golf clothes, and even sporty swimwear.
We also love the brand’s size range. Not only does Athleta features sizes from XXS to 3X, but they also offer options for petites and talls with varying inseam lengths (which Lululemon does too, FTR). From young girls (via the Athleta Girl line) to older women, Athleta has plenty of options to fit every coverage preference, color scheme, and workout.
The sculpted foam cups kept everything in place, even when we tested high-impact movements, and we appreciate that there are sliding shoulder straps and hook-and-eye band closures for adjustability.
Why We Like It: The Insta-friendly matching sets are a chic way to look put together, even for a 5 a.m. workout.
It’s Worth Noting: The seamless designs and tight fits are a nuisance for visible panty lines.
UK-based Gymshark has become the It brand of social media, with everyone from TikTok stars to Instagram fit-fluencers rocking its infamous second-skin crop tops and booty-lifting leggings. Not to mention, it's become a favorite of celebrities, including Alessandra Ambrosio, Gabrielle Union, Jennifer Garner, Hailey Bieber, and Sarah Hyland. We’ve deemed Gymshark the best workout clothes if matching sets are your thing, with dozens of options in a variety of styles and colors (including a unique long-sleeve crop top that fits like a dream).
Just know that if you constantly worry about panty lines, you might not be comfortable in Gymshark leggings. They’re incredibly form-fitting, and the lack of seams makes *any* underwear pretty obvious. Sizes range from XS to XXL, which isn’t as inclusive as brands like Nike or Girlfriend Collective.
These high-waisted, sweat-wicking leggings feature shaded contouring that is meant to highlight our — ahem — assets. We dug it.
Why We Like It: From crazy cut-outs to a runsie — not a typo — every FP Movement piece is fun and eye-catching.
It’s Worth Noting: The workout clothes aren’t as technical or supportive as other activewear brands.
Look, sometimes finding the best activewear for women means seeking out the pieces that will make you actually excited to go to the gym in the early morning hours. No brand does that better than FP Movement. You’ll find citrus-inspired pops of color, cheeky cutouts, and unique silhouettes, and every item will turn heads (especially, yes, the running onesie). Plus, the workout clothes are comfortable as hell, especially the $30 Happiness Runs crop tank which has become our go-to bralette.
While the clothes are absolutely fun to wear, they’re not as technical as other brands (read: they don’t wick sweat as well, and they’re not as supportive). We wouldn’t recommend these for, say, trying to set a marathon PR, but for a casual jog with your pup? Totally. Plus, you can't deny the benefits of rocking a super flattering workout leotard.
We discovered that this oh-so-cozy crop top fits more like a light bralette and comes in literally dozens of colors — you can even buy matching leggings.
Why We Like It: Sizes range from XXS to 6XL in every size — truly inclusive.
It’s Worth Noting: Sizing runs weirdly small on some items.
First launched in 2017, Seattle-based brand Girlfriend Collective has gained a well-earned cult following, including love from celebrities such as Kerry Washington. It's become so popular that products are known to completely sell out on the regular. And why wouldn't they? The eco-conscious activewear brand uses fabric made with recycled water bottles in designing super chic, incredibly comfy essentials, including sports bras, leggings, sweats, and joggers. Plus — our favorite part — they’re truly size-inclusive going from XXS to 6XL in nearly every style and color.
While we respect a compressive fit (we love compression leggings, after all), we’ve found through trial and error that some Girlfriend items (such as the Paloma racerback sports bra and the high-rise bike shorts) tend to run small. We’d recommend ordering up.
We found that this lightweight bra is best suited to low-impact workouts, and the longline band stayed in place with each asana we flowed into.
Why We Like It: The maternity collection is more than an afterthought, with nearly 100 products to shop.
It’s Worth Noting: Much of their maternity collection is designed to fit through and beyond pregnancy.
Made in California, Beyond Yoga was designed so that every single body would feel comfortable in their own skin. From tanks to leggings and jumpsuits to dresses, the brand not only has a diverse line of athleisure wear, but it's also very inclusive, with sizes ranging from XXS to 4XL. Pro tip: The signature, buttery-soft Spacedye fabric is a customer favorite.
The maternity line is totally thoughtful, from the “grow in comfort” designs that stretch with your body to the soft, non-squeezing fabric. They even have a dedicated Beyond Birth collection, with nursing tanks, tees, and camis to get you through the fourth trimester.
Our editors wear a ton of leggings (shocker). One described these as “a cross between your favorite flannel and your favorite super-stretchy leggings.” Say less.
Why We Like It: Not only will you find activewear, but you’ll also find chic workwear, too.
It’s Worth Noting: The gear isn’t very technical and leans more toward “athleisure” than “workout clothes.”
If you're looking for athleisure that's more fashion-forward and work-appropriate than your typical gym garb, look to woman-founded brand Aday. The brand's lineup, which includes everything from leggings to sweaters to casual suiting, is made to be technical, seasonless, and sustainable with tailored silhouettes and high-quality fabrics. You could actually create an entire capsule wardrobe from the brand, if you prefer a minimalist look.
While the leggings department is well-stocked with high-waisted, move-with-you leggings, most everything else is fashion-first, rather than fitness-first. Save your Aday workout clothes for days when you need to look pulled together but can’t quite muster the strength for hard pants.
Biker Shorts Kristen Geil is a senior commerce editor who specializes in fitness clothing, gear, and equipment. She's a NASM-certified personal trainer and has run four marathons, and she's tried every type of workout there is. She recently led Shape's Sneaker Awards and Best in Fitness Awards, both of which involved testing and reviewing hundreds of fitness products to find the best, most highly rated options for Shape's audience. She works closely with the New York City testing lab to recommend products for testing, approve testing methodologies, and oversee testing results and analyses, which gives her extra insight into the best places to buy workout clothes.