Having the right fitness clothes women can add motivation to hitting your fitness goals at the gym or even in the great outdoors. It’s important to select gear that prioritizes “functionality, performance and style,” says personal trainer Massy Arias. That means that higher-impact activities like HIIT call for tighter fabrics that reduce bounce and compression while lower-intensity workouts, like barre or yoga, demand soft, stretchy materials that feel great against your skin. A good rule of thumb is to check out the product’s description to see what intensity level it’s designed for, says Stokes.
Some brands that are making big waves in the world of activewear are putting a fresh twist on classic styles. For a cool, contemporary take on leggings and sports bras that you can wear to Soul Cycle or the office, look to Aussie brand P.E Nation. Its styles have plenty of nods to ’90s street style and are comfy enough to wear from your couch to class, too.
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Other popular options include Lululemon and Alo Yoga. Both offer a variety of flattering and comfortable options for most body types, as well as top-notch performance fabrics that wash up beautifully. Both brands have a lot of cult-like pieces (think: the best leggings and the best sports bras) that are worth the splurge.
Another fitness brand that’s gaining momentum is Girlfriend Collective, known for its commitment to sustainability and size inclusivity. Its buttery-soft fabrics are made from recycled plastic water bottles and fishing nets, and the label designs its items for women in sizes XS to 6XL.