The Ultimate Guide to Women’s Workout Clothes
As an experienced shopping writer at Women’s Health, I’ve accumulated a wealth of knowledge about workout attire. After testing over 40 activewear brands over the years, I can confidently share my insights on the best workout clothes for women, highlighting those that stand out in style, performance, and price.
Key Considerations When Purchasing Activewear
Fabric Choice
Comfort is paramount in workout clothing. It’s essential to select moisture-wicking materials like nylon and elastane, which help manage sweat. These fabrics ensure you remain comfortable while exercising, abandoning heavy materials that could hinder performance.
- Elastane/Spandex: Lightweight and stretchy, ideal for workouts requiring movement.
- Nylon: Soft and durable while effectively wicking moisture.
Price Range
High-quality activewear can come at a premium. Brands like Lululemon and Vuori are examples where the investment pays off in durability and comfort. For those on a budget, options from Amazon’s exclusive workout brands or Adanola offer stylish alternatives priced below £80.
Durability
Long-lasting workout clothes are non-negotiable; they should resist pilling, stretching, and losing color after multiple washes. Brands featured in this guide have met these durability standards, with many users reporting excellent long-term satisfaction.
Our Selection Process
Over the past year, our team at Women’s Health has been rigorously testing best-selling workout gear. We assessed various factors such as versatility, sizing options, comfort, and moisture-wicking abilities to develop this curated list of must-have workout items.
Recommended Workout Clothes for Women
Lululemon
Lululemon has established itself as a leader in activewear thanks to its dedication to performance and style. The brand’s signature sweat-wicking fabrics and precision tailoring yield garments that move with the wearer.
Notable favorites are the Align Leggings, renowned for their barely-there feel and the Energy Bra, favored for its comfort and support during medium-impact activities.
TALA
TALA, founded by influencer Grace Beverley, is celebrated for its flattering designs. The brand emphasizes body inclusivity and offers a wide range of sizes. Lactura adores the DayFlex Wrap High Waisted Leggings for their flattering fit.
Sweaty Betty
Known for its high-quality fabrics and stylish designs, Sweaty Betty has quickly gained a loyal following. It’s praised for its non-transparent fabrics, particularly the Power UltraSculpt High-Waisted Gym Leggings, which withstand rigorous workouts.
Vuori
Vuori excels in soft fabrics that provide both comfort and flexibility. Personal trainer Kim Strother notes how well Vuori’s products accommodate various movement styles. Their Daily Legging is favored for its smoothing effect without excessive compression.
Fabletics
Fabletics stands out for its range of sizes, accommodating body types from XXS to 4XL. Jessica O’Donnell highlights the brand’s squat-proof fabric, which is especially useful during strength training sessions.
Nike
Nike has solidified its reputation for trendy activewear that transitions easily from gym to casual wear. The Pro Sculpt High-Waisted 7/8 Leggings and Zenvy Bra are standout products appreciated for their performance and stylish appeal.
Splits59
With a reputation for durability and style, Splits59 offers impressive options such as the Ella High Waist Airweight Legging, known for their comfort in various environments.
Amazon’s CRZ Yoga
This budget-friendly brand does not compromise on quality. Products like the Butterluxe Cross Waist Leggings exemplify the brand’s focus on style and comfort at an affordable price point.
Conclusion
When selecting the best workout clothes, consider factors such as material, price, durability, and brand reputation. The recommendations in this guide represent a combination of style, functionality, and value, tailored to meet the diverse needs of women across various fitness activities.
Meet the Experts
Insights were gathered from various specialists, including fitness instructors, nutritionists, and activewear enthusiasts, ensuring a comprehensive review of each brand featured in this article.
