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Whether it’s a pilates princess aesthetic or tenniscore-inspired styling, the best workout clothes for women have become trends in and of themselves for 2024. Take a look around your local workout studio or gym, and we’d bet you’ll agree: Women’s workout clothes have never been more aligned with fashion trends, turning your treadmill session into a personal catwalk.
Just like workout clothing’s recent strides in style, performance technology has swiftly advanced in just a few short years: Most brands now offer moisture-wicking fabrications that not only keep you dry, but also regulate body temperature while you’re hard at work reaching new PRs, like Nike’s Dri-Fit line or Lululemon’s cult-favorite leggings. On the high-tech front, you can also find activewear with GPS tracking, heart rate monitors, or extra supportive smart fabrications that cradle muscles and correct posture with compression, while other functional features like side pockets for your tech or tennis balls and convertible strapping on high-impact sports bras are more commonly embraced across top fitness brands.
Of course, fit and style are essential, too, according to Barry’s X founding instructor Taryn Brooks. “Most workout clothes are generally comfortable, so I look for pieces that feel unique and stylish and that I can pair with a jacket or blazer so I can run around town in between classes while still feeling (and looking) chic.” After all, there’s nothing like that post-pilates victory lap to the grocery story or smoothie shop.
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“I love to think about how someone wants to feel when they get ready to work out,” says Kristal Hill, former Creative Director of Design for FP Movement. “I’m always considering the type of fitness different people love. If it’s more soft and graceful, it will inform more femininity with delicate details, or if it’s more intense and powerful, then that will translate through stronger materials and details.” In your search for the best workout clothes, it’s important to choose activewear styles suited for your activities of choice. Do you need an option for HIIT class or a 45-minute Peloton ride? Higher-impact activities will require more supportive pieces than lower-impact ones, like, say, a yoga or Tai Chi class.
Below, discover our expert-approved guide of the best women’s activewear brands to shop this summer, plus insight on fabrics to look for and how to properly wash away all that earned sweat after a winning workout.
Top Workout Clothing Brands for Women of 2024
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Alo Yoga
- Year founded: 2007
- Bestsellers: 7/8 High-Waist Airlift Legging, Aspire Tank, Alosoft Suns Out Onesie, Match Point Tennis Skirt
- Known for: Elevated California athleisure and flattering fits
One of the hottest celebrity-loved brands on the market — Alo Yoga — was founded as a yoga brand by childhood friends in 2007. It’s a marriage of contemporary, vintage-meets-trendy designs and pieces that promote growth in your practice. “Alo Yoga’s product is stunning and functional,” says Kelsey Sheahan, an iFIT trainer and Sweat Den fitness studio founder who specializes in pilates sculpt, strength training, and running — and usually trains head-to-toe in Alo. “It’s also the perfect studio-to-street fit.” The Alo site is a real destination, with beauty and wellness products plus a streaming workout platform that offers classes from yoga to strength training to mediation for all levels. And if all this doesn’t encourage you to purchase something, note that the brand has a slew of celebrity fans. Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, Ariana Grande, and Taylor Swift have all been seen in Alo’s durable pieces.
Alo Yoga 7/8 High-Waist Airlift Leggings
You’ve seen these leggings before — most likely in the Instagram posts and sweaty post-gym paparazzi snaps of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Hailey Bieber, Lori Harvey, Kendall and Kylie Jenner, Olivia Wilde, Laura Harrier, Lucy Hale, and the list goes on.
Their slightly cropped hem leaves room for accessorizing with bold workout sneakers, while super stretchy, sweat-wicking fabric flatters your figure and keeps you looking and, most importantly, feeling cool.
What testers say: “Unbeatable comfort! I love the compression that keeps my legs looking smooth without feeling like it’s suffocating. Amazing material that is not see-through and has a nice weight and sheen. I’m 5’6”, 160 lbs, big hips, and size medium fits perfectly.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $128
Alo Yoga Aspire Tank
Fit for the gym or any off-duty outing, this cropped ribbed tank is a simple statement in any pairing. It’s lightweight and odor-resistant, too, so it makes for a worthy summer staple you’ll want to wear anywhere and everywhere.
What testers say: “Love this tank! It’s cropped but gives enough coverage to meet the top hem/waistline of most of my leggings. It does not have a built in bra but looks totally fine with one underneath (especially a high neck sports bra). I’m a 36DD, 5’6”, size 30 in jeans and the L fits great.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $48
Alo Yoga Alosoft Suns Out Onesie
Keep it simple with an athletic onesie that provides full-body support and functional ease. This top-rated piece features a classic V neckline, slim double straps, and buttery-smooth bike shorts with a body contouring fit.
What testers say: “Love this onesie. It is my first one and I have to say it fits so well, and looks so stylish under a cardigan, too. It’s great for lounging around the house in the summer. I love the built-in bra the most. Would definitely recommend this!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $128
Adidas
- Year founded: 1924
- Bestsellers: Tlrd Impact Training High-Support Bra, Optime Full-Length Leggings, Adibreak Pants, Firebird Shorts
- Known for: Innovative performance fabrics and signature brand design
Those Three Stripes have been and continue to be one of the most iconic graphics in sportswear. Adidas formed its stripes in 1949 and is still one of the strongest and best fitness companies out there. Through the years, they were known for soccer, track, and tennis gear as well as streetwear, especially in the mid-’80s thanks to Run-D.M.C. These days, what sets Adidas apart is its fashionable collaborations, most notably the Adidas By Stella McCartney workout clothing line that’s approaching its 25th anniversary next year. Adidas also puts a huge emphasis on sustainability, with many of their women’s workout clothes designed with recycled materials. Another highlight of Adidas’ sustainable practices is its Parley line, a partnership with Parley of the Oceans that turns plastic collected from water into activewear.
Adidas Optime Full-Length Leggings
Shoppers rave over these leggings for their exceptionally comfortable, full-leg fit. Their high waistband sit snug over the hips, which reliably holds secure for deep squats and far leaps.
What testers say: “These give a great stylish and sporty fit, while also being highly functional for almost any type of workout!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $55
Adidas Firebird Shorts
In the sweltering summer heat, you may prefer a looser, airier fit. Consider classic gym shorts like these ones from Adidas that offer more coverage that bike shorts, with a streetwear-ready, sheeny satin finish.
What testers say: “These shorts are so darn comfy it’s not even funny. Not too tight on the thighs. They feel exactly like Adidas track pants. I love the zippered pockets and I can’t wait to wear them on a run. The length is perfect on me and I really love the overall fit.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $40
Adidas Adibreak Pants
Take a page from Blake Lively’s style playbook with the Adidas Adibreak Pants — Lively wore a similar pair to the Super Bowl this year. These cute, practical track pants feature snap-button side panels the bring in some breeze, with smooth and cooling fabrication that’s comfortable for lounging or slipping on over your workout gear when you’re in recovery-mode.
What testers say: “So nostalgic, so ’90s! I LOVE them! They’re very comfortable and stretchy enough for someone curvy. Would recommend to size up if you want a loose fit.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $85
Lululemon
- Year founded: 1998
- Bestsellers: Align High-Rise Pants, Align High-Rise Shorts, Like a Cloud Bra, Varsity High-Rise Pleated Tennis Skirt
- Known for: Cult-favorite leggings and trendy activewear in inclusive sizing
Since Lululemon began producing yoga pants in 1998, the Vancouver-based brand has climbed its way from cult-favorite status to a household name. Stellar proprietary fabrics, like its buttery-soft Align material, make it hard to save many Lululemon pieces just for your sweat sessions. When you actually wear the brand’s leggings to workout, you get the hype. Every style has all the elements you want in activewear with high support and comfort, plus durability after multiple washes. The seamless tees and workout tanks are great for running and body weight workouts like yoga, available with short or long sleeves and seamless, non-scratchy construction. The sports bras offerings are equally impressive, with low- to high-impact options available in all shapes, cuts, and sizes.
Lululemon Align High-Rise Pants
Lululemon’s renowned Align leggings need no introduction. They’ve become a gold standard in the activewear space for their skin-skimming fabrication made of a stretchy and durable nylon and elastane blend, along with sweat-wicking properties and ultra flattering fits.
What testers say: “These pants are the softest leggings I have ever owned. I want to wear them every day and night! The color is perfect.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $98
Lululemon Like a Cloud Light Support Bra
Supportive sports bras can actually be really cute — in fact, they can be your biggest motivator for reaching your fitness goals. This strappy sweatheart style supports bust sizes up to a C-cup and comes in a range of girly and neutral hues to match your favorite workout set.
What testers say: “It’s my favorite workout bra ! Super comfortable and stays in place. It truly feels like a cloud. I wear it to workout and lift weights. I’m a 36C and size 10 fit really great.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $58
Lululemon Varsity High-Rise Pleated Tennis Skirt
Serve serious tenniscore with this bestselling new release. It can take you from the court to brunch in serious style, but this versatile staple also wicks sweat, dries fast, and features a Luxtreme fabric liner with a four-way stretch to support a full range of motion.
What testers say: “I love everything about this skort. Great length for 5’3” person — fits perfectly. I have 26 waist 34 hips and got size 6. The soft no-fuss elastic high waistband is so comfortable. The thigh grips on shorts are appreciated. The mini pleats fall on the body in a very flattering way. And I know NOT to put this in the dryer. Pleats will last as long as you don’t release them with heat. I’ll be buying more colors.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $88
Nike
You can’t go to a workout, a walk down a street, or anywhere for that matter without seeing a sea of Nike sneakers — and the brand’s women’s workout clothes are just as lust-worthy. From leggings to gym socks to sports bras and comfortable hoodies, everything that Nike creates combines fashion-forward style with high-performance fabrics. Dri-Fit is the brand’s crowning glory in the performance category, as it’s a fabrication that’s specially designed to wick sweat and keep you cool a dry. From running miles in a gym to throwing an oversized crew neck over a pair of biker shorts post-workout, the brand has something for every type of athlete and occasion.
Nike Swoosh Medium Support Padded Sports Bra
Built for amateur and pro-athletes alike, the Swoosh Padded Sports Bra is a winner you can rely on. Its sewn-in pads won’t get in the way of your workout, while medium support keeps everything snug in reactive, sweat-wicking material.
What testers say: “Best sports bra I’ve ever owned! I wear bras in size 38D and the XL is a great fit! It’s tight enough that you feel supported but not too restraining as the material is so comfortable and stretchy. This is my new go-to sports bra — I love that it comes padded too (I never understood why they often don’t).”
Price upon publish date of this article: $40
Nike One Dri-Fit High-Waisted 2-in-1 Shorts
There’s nothing worse than pesky chafing during an intense sweat session, but you can rest assured that won’t be an issue with Nike’s Dri-Fit shorts. The interior is lined with an inner shorts layer that provides a thin and smooth barrier, while the brand’s renowned temperature-regulating fabric will keep you cool and dry.
What testers say: “These sorts are SO good! I want them in every color. They’re the perfect length and coverage — great for any type of workout from running, HIIT, or weights.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $48
Nike Pro Women’s Mid-Rise Mesh-Paneled Leggings
Nike’s mesh-paneled leggings are breathable, soft, and stretchy, making for optimal workout leggings, whether you’re breaking into a sprint or throwing a jab in boxing class.
What testers say: “I love these leggings — so much so that I bought a second pair to gift them to my mom. I’ve owned my pair for a few years now and they still look as good as new.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $50
Tory Sport
Tory Burch launched a sports line in 2015 that continues to make a splash: This top women’s workout clothing brand reflects the New York-based designer’s preppy, feminine aesthetic. It also pays homage to the vintage sports looks of the 1960 and 1970s, be it tennis or skiing, while keeping the label modern and fresh. The brand’s original Flare Track pants served as a sleek comeback for the ’90s wide-leg yoga pants, for example. While all the pieces look super chic, they’re also equally functional, created with durable fabrics with sweat-wicking capabilities. Tory Burch has always had a robust handbag assortment, from evening clutches to work sachets to beach totes, and within Tory Sport, you can find overnight bags, backpacks, gear totes, and belt packs you’ll want to wear to the gym and beyond.
Tory Sport Side-Slit Tennis Dress
Simple and chic, the Tory Sport Side-Slit Tennis Dress will bring nothing but “old money” elegance to your next workout. A built-in padded bra and short leg slit help with movement and breathability.
What testers say: “Comfortable, flattering, and versatile! Love that I can wear any color shorts underneath. The slit reveals just enough of shorts and provides convenient access to ball pocket. Comfy and stylish. I can wear this anytime!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $248
Tory Sport Tech Piqué Side-Slit Tennis Skirt
This versatile skirt features Tory Sport’s innovative Tech Piqué performance fabrication that’s super pliable and wicks away moisture. Plus, it comes with built-in shorts for reliable coverage and anti-chafing protection.
What testers say: “I love this skirt. It’s preppy and cute, and also feels great to play tennis in. Can pair with white, green, or navy top and look super sharp! Thanks Tory Sport for another lovely piece! “
Price upon publish date of this article: $148
Tory Sport Crepe Track Jacket
No matter the weather, a track jacket is a must-have in any workout wardrobe. Wear this ’70s-inspired staple on a cool morning run, or style it with your best baggy jeans in a sporty-chic afternoon ensemble.
Price upon publish date of this article: $498
Fp Movement
- Year founded: 2012
- Bestsellers: Never Better Bike Shorts, Free Throw Muscle Tee, Go To Set, Sport Mode Muscle Tee
- Known for: Affordable workout and loungewear
FP Movement carries a mix of athleisure and athletic clothes that hit on the boho chic trend. It’s a great place to shop for separates or full workout outfits sets. Hill highlights the brand’s bestselling leggings and sports bra “because they’re eco-friendly, as they’re made of an amazing Italian econyl seamless yarn.” FP Movement caters to a range of activities, from running to yoga and hiking, whether you do them every day, once a week, or once a month. In addition to being a destination for activewear, FP Movement also provides tons of fitness accessories like the ever-popular Bala bangles and boxing gloves, as well as beauty and wellness products, like face masks and sunscreen to promote an overall healthy lifestyle.
Fp Movement Never Better Bike Shorts
Bike shorts will be your best friend in summer’s sweltering heat. This sleek, high-rise style falls at the top of the thigh, with smooth, form-fitting fabrication that practically feels like a second skin.
What testers say: “The best bike shorts! The material is so buttery soft. The length is great, they don’t ride up and actually stay up — but the waistband isn’t crazy tight. They don’t feel like compression shorts but aren’t too thick and not sheer at all. Totally squat proof! I have multiple colors. Love love love.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $48
Fp Movement Free Throw Muscle Tank
Got muscles? Even if they’re just beginning to pop, show off all that hard work with the bestselling Free Throw Muscle Tank. Its simple, cropped design bodes well for post-workout errands, too, making for staple that plays double-duty in your workout and daytime rotation.
What testers say: “I’m an avid runner and this is the best tank top I’ve tried in years. I’ve been on the hunt for a cropped tank with slightly more coverage over the shoulders and back to hide all sports bra straps and this does that. It’s also made from the softest, most supportive material which has me wearing it not only on runs but casually too! I’m going to get it in a number of other colors.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $40
Fp Movement Go To Set
If yoga’s more your flow, you can lean into more athleisure ensembles like this two-piece set. It comes with wide-leg cotton blend pants and a cropped ribbed tank that’ll keep you comfy and allow you to freely plunge into downward dog.
What testers say: “Perfect fit. I got a small (I’m 5’2 and 118 lbs) and it fits perfectly. Not too long at all! Super cute to wear to soccer games or out to brunch! I received so many complements, 10/10 recommend. I’m buying two more colors — a total hit!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $108
Gymshark
- Year founded: 2012
- Bestsellers: Everyday Seamless Shorts, Everyday Seamless Crop Tank, Ruched Strappy Sports Bra, Everyday Seamless Leggings
- Known for: Cult-favorite performance wear and supportive silhouettes
This British retailer was founded in 2012 by school friends while studying at university. Gymshark was one of the first brands to grow and gain popularity due to influencer marketing partners. Originally, it only carried men’s styles, but now women’s silhouettes are key products for the brand. What sets Gymshark apart from the rest is its seamless constructions and sweat-wicking material that contours the body for a supportive and flattering fit. Gymshark also prioritizes sustainability, producing its offerings in a way that uses less water, energy, and chemicals to help support the environment. While its leggings are always popular, its crop tops will have you looking sleek during weight training.
Gymshark Everyday Seamless Shorts
These shorts boast over 4,000 five-star reviews — and TikTok popularity that racks up to 11 million views. They’re made of highly durable fabrication that won’t split when you dive into a squat, with booty-boosting contours and a supportive, high-waisted fit.
What testers say: “These shorts fit perfectly. At the gym, they do not ride up — they stay hugged around the thighs. Great breathable material that snatches you in all the right places. Love them.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $28
Gymshark Everyday Seamless Crop Tank
What’s better than a tank that doubles as a sports bra? This two-in-one essential features a secure racerback design, with a plunging and lifting V neckline, and padless support.
What testers say: “Smooth material, flattering design, and so comfortable. I wore this all day as a bra and forgot I was still wearing activewear. Gymshark crop tops are the GOAT.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $24
Gymshark Everyday Seamless Leggings
Perhaps the brand’s most iconic seller, the Everyday Seamless Leggings are just as the name suggests — a piece you’ll want to wear 24/7. Their lightweight and thin material was specially-made with runners, cyclists, and cross-trainers in mind, in a super stretchy, durable nylon and elastane blend you’ll find yourself lounging in.
What testers say: “Good quality seamless leggings. They are very flattering without an awkwardly obvious bum scrunch. The contour design is nice and subtle.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $38
Girlfriend Collective
- Year founded: 2016
- Bestsellers: Compressive Pocket Legging, Dylan Tank Bra, Trail Short, Colette Halter Bra
- Known for: Sustainable and minimalist activewear with inclusive sizing
Girlfriend Collective is beloved for two reasons: its commitment to sustainability and size inclusivity. Made using recycled plastic water bottles and fishing nets (and adhering to a full transparency policy), Girlfriend Collective’s styles are some of the most eco-friendly activewear pieces around. Sizes range from XS up to 6XL, making this one of the best places to purchase leggings, sports bras, and all sorts of workout clothes for plus-size women. Another reason why this brand has a huge following is because of the look and feel of its pieces. Streamlined and simple cuts are easy to mix and match or wear as a complete set.
Girlfriend Collective Compressive Pocket Legging
Girlfriend Collective’s Compressive technology is not one to sleep on. It’s squat-proof, moisture-wicking, and supremely stretchy. And, not to mention, entirely made from recycled water bottles. These beloved and practical leggings are designed for intense workouts, with two side pockets that fit a smartphone and a hidden back pocket for your keys.
What testers say: “I have bad circulation due to an autoimmune disorder and wanted to try some compressive leggings to see if it helped. So I got two pairs of leggings in fun colors — because why not — and it has made a world of difference! I wanted to try a few other brands just to compare and honestly I genuinely think these are the absolute best. Whenever I put them on I feel like I can dance around the world and my legs don’t get tired. I love them!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $98
Girlfriend Collective Dylan Tank Bra
No sports bra necessary with the Dylan Tank Bra. Well, it’s essentially a sports bra in a smooth and seamless tank silhouette, with a built-in support brand. It’s a great option for those with bigger busts who prefer more coverage, or anyone who just wants a chic throw-on-and-go piece in their rotation.
What testers say: “Finally a sports bra WITHOUT removable cups! I would say this is a medium support bra that I wear to studio workouts. This is definitely a sports bra where your body moves with you. I like that it is pull on and has a high neck. I definitely need to order more!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $56
Girlfriend Collective Trail Short
For the outdoorsy or trail-running types, the Trail Short features functional touches like water-wicking ripstop fabrication, micro running short liners, and a zip back pocket for stowing small items like your keys or earbuds.
What testers say: “Love these shorts so much I had to buy another pair! They’re ideal for hiking/walking. They’re super light wait and don’t ride up! I wear them alll the time and want more!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $38.50
Athleta
- Year founded: 1998
- Bestsellers: Breezy Tank, Ace High Rise Ruffle Skort, Salutation Stash High Rise Short, Solace Longline Bra
- Known for: Affordable, supportive, and inclusive activewear
Owned by Gap Inc, this women’s-only retailer is one of the best places to find activewear. Supplying soft leggings, streamlined tops, and supportive sports bras for cup sizes DD and up, the brand stands behind its message of ‘The Power of She’ to empower and uplift women. It also commits to giving back, partnering with charities, and presents an inclusive community for women of all ages, races, ethnicities, identities, sizes and abilities. The brand is beginning to offer more than just workout gear, including casual jackets, swim pieces, and a cooling pajama collection.
Athleta Breezy Tank
Described as a “linen-like texture,” the Breezy Tank’s modal and polyester blend is blissfully breathable under the blazing summer sun. Its relaxed fit is a no-brainer for tossing on before a workout class or a leisurely run, and keeps you covered with a high neckline and longline fit.
What testers say: “So light! Love the longer length. Perfect for hot summer days.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $44
Athleta Ace High Rise Ruffle Skort
Can we make some noise for the humble skort? Athleta shows how it’s done in this Ace style, which comes equipped with cooling Swiftlite fabric, a back zip waistline pocket, cute ruffle detailing, and functional hidden shorts.
Price upon publish date of this article: $79
Athleta Solace Longline Bra
Whether you’re logging miles on the trail or doing a sun salutation on your yoga mat, the Solace Longline bra brings equal parts support, coverage, and style. Its Powervita fabric is seamless and soft, and has a banded chest band that’s designed to lay flat to the torso.
What testers say: “This sports bra is super comfortable, with buttery soft fabric. Support is good in all types of activities (low-, medium-, and high-impact). LOVE the longline.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $55
Staud Court
- Year founded: 2023
- Bestsellers: Rally Skirt, Doubles Skirt, Top Spin Dress, Carry Cross-Back Sport Tank
- Known for: Chic racquet sport fashion pieces with performance technology
Staud, the trendsetting Los Angeles-based label, launched in 2015 with timeless fashion pieces and affordable handbags, and only just recently expanded its offerings to activewear with the racquet sport-inspired Staud Court line in June 2023. It arrived amid a growing wave of popularity toward pickle ball and tennis, and only continues to innovate in chic, ’80s-inspired country club designs and performance fabrications. It’s become a destination for this season’s tenniscore boom, from crisp white lines to fresh greens and nostalgic navy — all of which adorn trendy tennis dresses, skirts, and stylish accessories that can be sported on and off the court.
Staud Court Rally Skirt
Staud Court’s Rally Skirt is our star of the tenniscore trend, donning a crisp contrast trim and a quintessential green hue that’s synonymous with the sport’s romantic aesthetic. But don’t let this high-style design fool you — it’s built to wick sweat with a stretchy polyester and spandex blend, and convenient built-in shorts.
Price upon publish date of this article: $165
Staud Court Top Spin Dress
The Top Spin tennis dress is a bestseller from Staud Court’s new releases, which comes as no surprise as it can easily pass as a chic summer dress. Its halter neckline offers coverage, while fast-drying fabric and built-in shorts mark it as grand-slam addition to any activewear wardrobe.
Price upon publish date of this article: $235
Staud Court Carry Cross-Back Sport Tank
A mate to the Rally Skirt, the Carry Cross-Back Sport Tank offers a unique silhouette you’d be hard-pressed to find from any other brand. Its corset-inspired seaming snatches the waist without constriction, thanks to stretchy spandex fabrication, while a scoop neckline lifts the bust line for flattering support. You may even reach for this top to wear for a night out — zero judgement here.
Price upon publish date of this article: $65.62
Bandier
Bandier prides itself as fashionable solution to activewear, and its rings true through in the brand’s range of contemporary, versatile, and flattering performance designs. Former music executive (and manager of the band TLC) Jennifer Bandier founded the brand in 2014 when she broke her foot and couldn’t find any stylish activewear shops within walking distance. She created her own boutique that curated a variety of niche athletic brands and represented her personal style. The rest is history — Bandier is a leading force in the athleisure category and counts celebrities from Emily Ratajkowski, Hilary Duff, Anya Taylor-Joy, Kaia Gerber, Jennifer Garner, Lady Gaga, and many more as avid wearers of the brand’s blockbusting leggings and sports bras. Plus, Bandier has seen popular collaborations with athletic and fashion brands over recent years, from Alc, New Balance, Ganni, and, most recently for summer 2024, Lacoste.
Bandier Calla Crop Cutout Bra
The Calla Crop Cutout Bra is nothing short of business in the front, and a party in the back. The low-impact sports bra fronts a chic high neckline that falls just under the bust for lifting support, while the back features a cool, two-strap design that allows you to adjust its 360 degree fit.
Price upon publish date of this article: $90
Bandier Center Stage Capri Leggings
These extra-opaque leggings are sheer-proof and squat-proof, so you’ll never suffer a tear or mistakenly flash other people in your workout class. The style has an extra-wide waistband to avoid awkward fold-overs and rolls mid-workout, while custom-developed compressive stretch and seamless design holds you in, no sweat.
Price upon publish date of this article: $100
Bandier Form Seamless Midi Pant
This varsity-inspired legging style arrives in the brand’s 7/8 length, which falls just above the ankle for a full-coverage fit, while a stretchy ribbed waistband allows ample room to breathe and move.
Price upon publish date of this article: $120
Essential Workout Clothing Pieces for Every Woman
If you’re upgrading your workout wardrobe, consider these key pieces for all levels of activity:
- Supportive sports bras: The foundation of a good workout, this is crucial for high-intensity training, as Brooks shares, to support the variety of movements. Sports bras come in a variety of silhouettes, like longline fits that double as crop tops. You’ll want to determine the amount of support needed for your bust first, then play with cutouts, fun strapping, and bright colors that can be worn under atop or paired with high-waisted bottoms.
- A comfortable top: If you want more coverage than just a sports bra, a lightweight tank or sweat-wicking tee is your best bet. Consider stretchy and thin fabrications with cuts that offer the most mobility, like crop tops and muscle tees that won’t constrict you or pool sweat.
- Bottoms to your liking: Whether you opt for workout leggings, shorts, or a tennis skort, consider where you want the waistline to hit. “I look for a high-rise waistband, so I don’t feel like I’m spilling over the top,” Sheahan says. Your bottoms should fit snugly, so they stay in place. “There’s nothing more annoying than having to pull up your leggings every few seconds when you’re in the middle of a killer workout.”
- Tennis dresses: An activewear dress is a great, versatile addition to any wardrobe, whether you’re an avid athlete or stick to simple “hot girl walks.” Not only do they align with prominent tenniscore and athluxury trends, they also make for breathable, one-and-done outfits that wick sweat as you go about busy summer activities.
The Best Fabrics to Look for in Workout Clothes for Women
When shopping for optimal activewear, prioritize fabrications that are stretchy, thin, and breathable to avoid constriction that would get in the way of reaching your fitness goals. Moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, and UV protective features are always a major plus, but it all depends on your chosen activity and the type of activewear you prefer to sport. No matter which activity-specific silhouette you land on, the pair should include fabrics that are durable, comfortable, and not see-through.
- Spandex: Also referred to as Lycra, Spandex is one of the most flexible fabrics that grant you a full range of movement. It’s a form-fitting synthetic material, which holds snug to your natural shape while providing elastic support. “To me, it’s all about spandex,” says Sheahan. “It’s lightweight yet durable, breathable but not see-through and sweat-wicking, so you have less of a chance walking into Whole Foods post-workout showing off how hard you worked in class.” Hill also keeps to materials that “wick away sweat and dry quickly but still maintain a softness and comfort.” It’s not as breathable as other common activewear fabrications, but it lays thin and lightweight against the skin, making for a flattering choice for garments that benefit from seamless stretch, like sports bras, leggings, or bike shorts.
- Cotton: Known for its breathability and softness, cotton makes for an excellent fabric in workout tops, shorts, and tennis dresses. It’s resistant to odor and super lightweight, making it perfect for summer. However, keep in mind that cotton may absorb or trap sweat close to the skin, so it’s best suited for low-impact activities or outdoor sports, like yoga or tennis.
- Polyester: Polyester is a common, plastic-based fabric that’s durable, easy to clean, and wrinkle-resistant — ideal for packing a post-office gym bag or activewear for travel. It can even repel UV rays (but that’s no excuse to skip sunscreen!). Polyester is more breathable than cotton, though it can retain odor, so opt for the fabric in lower-sweat activities like walking or yoga.
- Nylon: Nylon exists in a middle ground between spandex and polyester. It’s one of the most durable, easy-to-clean fabrics you can wear, so it’s best suited for intense activity, like hiking, cross-training, or weight-lifting. It dries quickly and absorbs very low levels of moisture, so it wears very lightweight upon the skin.
- Bamboo: If you’re in the market for eco-friendly activewear, bamboo fabrications will be your best friend. Not only is it plant-based, it’s biodegradable, making it a far better option than synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon that are made from plastic. Much like bedding made of bamboo, activewear garments made of the fabric are supremely soft, breathable, and temperature-regulating, as well as being naturally hypoallergenic (great for sensitive skin), moisture-wicking, and UV repellant.
How to Wash Activewear
Activewear is designed with specialized fabrics that differ from other items in your hamper. Drew Westervelt, founder and CEO of HEX Performance, a laundry detergent made for activewear, provides some helpful tips. “Most activewear is made of tightly-woven modern fabrics, including nylon and spandex. Regular detergent can clog fibers and ruin high-performance fabrics,” he shares. A detergent that is made especially for activewear will not only clean your gear but protect the integrity and eliminate odor-causing bacteria — consider detergents like Hex Performance, Tide Plus Febreze Sport Active, or The Laundress sport detergent.
To start, run your pieces in the washer on a gentle, cold wash setting and “avoid using too much detergent to try to clean better, as it actually makes things worse,” Westervelt advises. Next, hang dry your workout clothes or place them in the dryer. If you go the latter route, keep in mind that “traditional dryer sheets are not suited for activewear, since they leave a wax coating on the fabric that damages the flexible sweat-wicking features,” Westervelt warns. To avoid damage, he recommends using HEX Performance’s Wet Dryer Sheets, which are made to clean, soften and protect without leaving any residue behind.
How We Chose the Best Workout Clothes for Women
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
In order to curate the best workout clothing for women, we conducted extensive research across the activewear market and tested dozens of brands to determine the most exceptional options to shop. We tapped three fitness clothing experts to weigh in on product recommendations and proper clothing care, as well as compared customer reviews from top brands to pinpoint bestsellers that are worth the investment. We made sure to include brands that celebrate inclusive sizing and offer a variety of silhouettes that appeal to a wide range of preferences, body types, and activity levels. Additionally, we spotlit brands that represent a range of price points to offer accessible options for a variety of shoppers. Learn more about us here.
Meet The Experts
Kristal Hill is the former Creative Director of Design for FP Movement. She was instrumental in expanding Free People’s approach to wellness and self expression, as key creative lead in FP Movement’s functional fashion.
Taryn Brooks is a Barry’s X founding and principal instructor. She specializes in cross-training, heavy lifting, and plyometrics.
Kelsey Sheahan is an iFIT trainer who specializes in pilates sculpt, strength training, and running. She is the founder of Sweat Den, a strength training and mindfulness studio based in Denver Colorado.
Drew Westervelt is the founder and CEO of HEX Performance, an innovative laundry detergent company that specializes in activewear care. He is also a former professional lacrosse player, where he played for Team USA and several college teams.
Meet the Authors
Gabrielle Porcaro is a fashion writer and stylist based in New York City. She’s the former fashion editor of Women’s Health, Cosmopolitan, Seventeen, Ladies’ Home Journal, and FHM. Her byline has appeared in publications such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy, The Spruce, Better Homes & Gardens, Byrdie, Verywell Fit, Shape, Health and more, where she’s covered fashion, fitness, beauty, and home. Porcaro wrote the original version of this article.
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content across fashion, beauty, footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Cigliano received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She is currently based in New York City. She updated this story in June 2024 with bestselling brands and additional insight on the best workout clothing fabrics to shop for summer.
