We tested the best women’s workout clothes: Top activewear brands to shop (2024)

Need some motivation to get to the gym? Perhaps, it’s time to revamp your workout wardrobe.

Let’s be frank — workout clothing can be devastatingly boring. Head for a yoga class or jog in New York City and you’re sure to see a bunch of identical black workout sets. But, some of us need a little more inspiration to get into action — and that desire has driven us to hunt down the best workout brands for women.

We’ve turned to the internet, read through countless customer reviews, and tested many brands firsthand to pick out our favorites. And let us tell you, there is no shortage of incredible options — from celeb-loved styles at Alo and lululemon, to smart gear from CALIA, sustainable athleticwear from Girlfriend Collective, and performance-driven options from Under Armour.

We’ve selected brands that offer a wide range of sizes and lengths to flatter your body type, as well as a variety of styles for every kind of shopper — from classic neutrals to modern geometric shapes and vibrant, electric patterns. The brands that have made the cut all offer a range of pieces for every type of activity: exercise dresses for court sports, sports bras and leggings for the gym, and more essentials.

Read on for our recommendations on the best workout clothing brands for women. Once you’re done, you may be ready to shop for some new at-home fitness equipment, so you can put your new clothes to the test.

• Best overall: lululemon
• Best for everyday: Alo Yoga
• Best for yoga: FP Movement
• Best for smart gear: CALIA
• Best for colors: Terez
• Best for high-impact: Under Armour
• Best for yoga: Aerie
• Best environmentally-friendly: Girlfriend Collective
• Best for running: Gymshark
• Best budget-friendly: Fabletics
• Best splurge: NEIWAI
• Most comfortable: Vuori
• Best for winter sports: P.E Nation
• Best for hiking: Outdoor Voices

Best overall: lululemon

Shipping: Standard — free, Express — $20, Priority — $30.

Returns: Shoppers can make a return online or in-store within 30 days of the delivery date.

lululemon has mastered the art of designing workout clothing that holds up year after year, while also coming out with new styles to stay ahead of the trends. Most people agree that it’s difficult to find another workout brand that offers such a wide range of sizes (leggings are offered in size 0 to 20.) And the best part? The brand has been working to implement more sustainable practices — you can shop their ‘Like New’ resale section for some gently used lululemon gear at lower prices.

I’ve lived in lululemon since middle school, and I still have some quintessential early 2000’s lululemon staples in the back of my closet (thankfully, the high-rise Groove leggings have really made a comeback). But when it comes to their iconic, best-sellers, there is no question — that would be the Align Bra and Align leggings, which come in four different lengths: 23″, 25″, 28″, and 31″. Having the option to tailor these to your height makes a world of difference when it comes to working out — no more scrunched ankles for the petite ladies.

Best for everyday: Alo Yoga

Shipping: UPS Ground — free, Faster — $15, Fastest — $25.

Returns: Alo Yoga accepts returns for a full refund within 30 days of purchase.

By now, most of us have seen the ultimate ‘cool girl’ workout brand all over social media. Alo is a cult favorite among A-listers like Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, and Taylor Swift. It’s no surprise that they all love Alo. The brand offers a quality selection of durable staples like their Airlift and Alosoft leggings (offered in both full length and 7/8) as well as more fashionable statement pieces like their bold bomber jackets, shockingly flattering onesies, and more accessories.

There’s no hiding that this is one of my favorite workout brands. I love that you can take your Alo outfit from a sweat-drenched workout class to elegant brunch in the city, and back home just in time a for movie. It’s the perfect combination of wearable, functional, and stylish. Their signature fabric is a blend of nylon and spandex — and I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the leggings retain heat while venturing outside in the middle of January and stay just as cool on a mid-July run. Alo also frequently adds new seasonal styles to their roster (like these luxurious velvet leggings) which make it easy to shop there year-round. So, does the brand live up to the hype? I’d say so.

Best for yoga: FP Movement

Shipping: Standard — free, Express — $10, Express on $150+ — free, Overnight — $20

Returns: If Free People receives your return at their warehouse within 30 days of delivery, they will credit your original form of payment. If it’s received after 30 days, a Free People e-gift card will be issued.

Free People has built their brand around the carefree, bohemian, tomboy aesthetic that we all know and love. Their activewear line, FP Movement, has broken into the health and wellness space with a free-spirited, inclusive collection of workout clothing that inspires you to get moving and feel your best. It’s full of bright colors and vibrant prints that will certainly bring some joy into your next yoga studio or pilates class.

If you’re looking for activewear built specifically for lighter or medium-impact activities, FP Movement is probably you’re best bet. From my review, I was able to test their best-selling Never Better Leggings and Square Neck Sports Bra which come in 14 unique colorways. The four-way stretch makes all the difference — the material is airy, breathable, and moves with your body without feeling clingy. They also offer a wide variety of outerwear pieces that would make a great addition to your treks into the wilderness. Some pieces have a slightly vintage touch, like this Track in Action Jacket. While this brand may not be for pro athletes or someone training for a marathon, it sure is for me and any other person looking to gently kickstart their fitness regimen.

Best for smart gear: CALIA

Shipping: Standard, Expedited, and Express available. Shipping costs are determined by size and weight.

Returns: DICK’S Sporting Goods, Calia, VRST and Golf Galaxy offer a 90-day return policy on most products.

Meet the workout line that is implementing smart technology into their clothing — sun protection and odor elimination included. CALIA ‘s forward-thinking design features BodyFree Technology to inhibit odor wear after wear. Worried about sunburns while running? Don’t be. Their fabric also has also been engineered with UPF Technology to help protect your skin against harmful UV rays. That means no stink, and no sunburns — truly no details forgotten. They’ve also got collections for lighter workouts as well as higher-intensity ones, so you don’t have to choose.

Calia’s Inspire line is stocked with essentials that offer enough support for running and weight training, while also retaining the stretch and comfort that is optimal for some low-intensity yoga sessions. I love the versatility of these pieces and also can appreciate that they are made with human needs in mind. As someone who is always looking for a place for my wallet or phone, having leggings that come with convenient hip pockets is essential. Many of their sports bras and bodysuits also feature adjustable straps, a game-changer for those who prefer customizable support. The best part about this brand? Testing has been to ensure nothing is see-through. If you’re looking for intelligently-engineered athleticwear, shop Calia.

Best for colors: Terez

Shipping: Standard — $8 (free with discount code on orders $150+), Expedited — $15, UPS 2 Day — $40.

Returns: You can return for a refund or store credit up to 30 days from the order delivery date.

Stepping into Terez clothing makes you want to dive onto the dance floor. I can speak from experience. This brand is full of exciting, vibrant colors and patterns, which make so much sense (spreading joy is their mission after all). Another selling point — you can find a wide variety of girl’s activewear as well in their children’s section, which is not easy to come by. Hence, the perfect opportunity to shop for a mommy and me yoga class or matching photoshoot.

The Terez collection is constantly being updated with new styles. Baseball fans can shop thee MLB collaboration now for some pieces inspired by the Dodgers, Red Socks, Cubs, and more hit teams. But, for those who prefer hitting the gym to staying in the stands, we recommend shopping their active section. My top picks would be Action Heart-Seamed Legging in Hot Red as well as the matching Action Bralette. This set is made out of their high-compression Action fabric which provides extra support for tougher workouts and offers a smooth, flattering finish. That covers all the bases in our books!

Best for high-impact: Under Armour

Shipping: Standard — $8 (free when over $150), Express — $15, Priority — $25.

Returns: Returns for items purchased from UnderArmour.com, app, or Brand House and Factory House store locations are free within 60 days with proof of purchase.

If you’ve been on Instagram for the last couple of years, you’ve likely seen this brand exploding across your feed. There’s no doubt that Under Armour is quickly rising as a top competitor in the activewear market — much due to their signature glossy leggings that flatter every body type. But Under Armour’s site is also much more expansive than others — their sportswear covers a variety of needs from outfits curated for the pickleball court to technical military combat gear and everything in between. Items range from athleisure basics to compression tops and leggings, and outerwear that offers some insulation and temperature regulation for outdoor play.

I’d recommend Under Armour for both serious athletes and people with more niche hobbies. Their high-performance options have been engineered with infrared technology that reflects your body’s energy to help you work harder and recover smarter. For someone who works out day after day, this type of material will make a huge difference in their ability to bounce back. I also love that Under Armour offers a ‘Shop by Sport’ option which allows you to browse apparel in multiple sections, including softball, hunting, golf, and more. Some specialized pieces range on the more expensive side, but there are also plenty of budget-friendly basics.

Best Environmentally-friendly: Girlfriend Collective

Shipping: Only standard shipping is available.

Returns: Girlfriend Collective gladly accepts unworn, unwashed items with the tags and/or hygiene liners still attached within 30 days of their ship date.

Warning! All of your girlfriends are about to be raiding your closet. But really, what’s not to love about the Girlfriend Collective? This brand offers four different fabrics tailored to different types of activity levels. You’d never guess that their clothes are made out of trash — but they are. Fabrics are designed from fibers made from recycled water bottles, fishing nets, and other waste that would be discarded into the oceans and landfills. There is also a Re-Girlfriend program which allows customers to donate their old Girlfriend clothing for some store credit (sounds like a pretty great deal to us).

The gym girlies will appreciate the variety of styles and materials offered by the Girlfriend Collective. Runners may opt for Compressive pieces to keep everything held in for sprints, while yogis can head to the Float section to achieve the deepest stretches of their lives. While there are a variety of shades (especially soothing neutrals), I do wish that there were a few more brighter or patterned pieces to pick from. Regardless, Girlfriend Collective is easily the best option for those looking to shop with the environment in mind.

Best for running: Gymshark

Shipping: Standard — $5 (free for orders over $75), Express — $15 (free for orders over $150).

Returns: Any unwanted product must be returned within 30 days from when your Gymshark order is delivered.

Gymshark wants you to attack all your fitness goals with their sweat-wicking and physique-shaping activewear. Perhaps the best part about this brand is that they offer great deals to students looking to stay active. The process is simple: students who verify their identity through Student Beans can receive 10% off all Gymshark gear. It’s hard to pass on a deal that good.

As an avid runner, I can appreciate workout clothing that offers a bit more coverage and support — typically thicker material with nylon for some added breathability. Gymshark leggings fit the mark, and they’re also impressively flattering. The Sweat Seamless leggings feature a ribbed, shaped waistband to ensure maximum coverage and the Crossover Leggings offer a curve-sculpting, criss-cross design that adds some style to any workout. Many pieces are currently available for up to 50% off, so be sure to shop while the deal lasts.

Most comfortable: Vuori

Shipping: Free ground shipping for orders over $75, express is also available.

Returns: Vuori accepts returns for gear purchased through their website and at their Vuori retail store locations within 120 days for a refund back to the original form of payment.

Most shoppers know Vuori for their dreamy, cloud-soft joggers, but the rest of their activewear is just as easy to live in. The brand has carefully designed each piece with its California origins in mind. You can see it in the details — like the bowtie drawcords on their leggings, subtle slits in the tennis dresses, and cleverly ruched sports bras. Think zen yogi meets relaxed surfer vibe.

Prepare to enter dreamland: Vuori’s material is cloud-soft and wrinkles far less than some other performance brands. But for most shoppers, the real selling point is the fact that Vuori’s pieces are exceptionally durable, holding up for years with minimal stretching or snags. They don’t sacrifice style, either. The unique cuts like the one on this Square neck bra and Volley Skirt bring a level of sophistication to workout clothing. Another perk? Many of their fabrics are made with recycled materials. We say it’s time to give this smaller athleisure brand a shot.

Best splurge: NEIWAI

Shipping: All orders of $50 or more qualify for complimentary shipping. For orders that do not meet the $50 minimum, a flat rate shipping fee of $10 will be applied to your order total.

Returns: NEIWAI offersfree returns on unworn or defective garments for all eligible US orders. Shipping fees are non-refundable.

It’s no surprise that NEIWAI is a women-owned and women-led business. This lesser-known athleisure gem combines all the best elements of feminine style with dedicated sportswear. There is a wide variety of neutrals that afford many mix-and-match opportunities. One of their more unique offerings is the ballet and dance section, which is filled with a lovely assortment of wrap bras, knotted cardigans, and slit-leg balloon joggers.

For those of us who live in matching sets, NEIWAI is the place to be. The brand’s neutral palette — with shades like toffee, spice, and chocolate — looks just as delicious as they sound. Consider pairing the Mousse Medium Support Long Sports Braand High Waist Leggings. Keep in mind that pieces are more delicate, and the brand recommends hand-washing for best results. Their in-depth reviews provide informative details on overall ratings for fit, comfort, quality, and support, which is very helpful for customers to make the best decisions.

Best for winter sports: P.E Nation

Shipping: Free Express, Global Express — $15 (free for orders over $200)

Returns: Refunds for full-price items, store credit for sale items. Items must be returned within 30 days of the order confirmation date.

What’s better than an activewear brand you can take from the studio to the slopes to the streets. P.E Nation has mastered it — between the bold graphics, geometric cuts, bandanna prints, stars, stripes, and layering, this brand is an iconic, trend-setting choice for every type of athlete. Of course, their technical winter gear is probably the highlight of their site. But, be prepared to drop over $100 if you’re looking for a flashy new snow jacket or pants.

It’s not all about the glitzy, glamorous style choices with P.E Nation’s bold statement pieces (although we acknowledge they are some of the best we’ve seen). But, their workout clothes are also highly versatile. In addition to the Snow Edit, they’ve dropped a unique Sweat to Swimcollection, which is designed with Italian-made swim fabric with world-class training technology that can be worn from workout to water. With this brand, you’ll be set to workout through every season.

Best budget-friendly: Fabletics

Shipping: Free for orders of $49.95 and over. $5.95 flat rate for orders under $49.95. Ships within six to 10 business days.

Returns: Free returns and exchanges for members up to 90 days.

It’s hard to find an activewear brand that competes with Fabletics shockingly low prices. But, the brand also has a special offer that distinguishes it from many of its competitors. Shoppers pay $59.95 a month for a VIP membership, providing them with access to free fitness programs through their app as well as unbelievable sales. VIP members can access their 70% to 80% off sale on a range of trending items, from yoga pants to sports bras.

There are a few things about Fabletics that I love. The first — you can browse the “Complete the Look” and “Wear It With” sections for recommendations on matching styles, so you can create a complete set. On top of that, many of their pieces are offered in staple colorways so it’s already easy to mix and match. While the brand does offer some heavier-duty workout clothing, I prefer their loungier options, like the Oasis Pureluxe High-Waisted Pocket Kick Flares, which have deep external pockets and a very flattering high-waisted design that pairs well with just about any of their cropped tees or sports bras.

Best for hiking: Outdoor Voices

Shipping: Standard — free for all orders over $75, 2 Day — $20, Overnight — $30.

Returns: Outdoor Voices accepts returns within 45 days of purchase. Online orders can be returned to any of their shops. Final sale items are not eligible for return or exchange.

Embark on your next outdoor adventure with Outdoor Voices — the brand that has perfected technical clothing just for every type of outdoorswoman. Their loose, casual styles are ideal for hiking, climbing, camping and more recreational activities. There’s even an entire section dedicated to finding your ideal fleece made with 100% recycled polyester, so you can stay comfortable in any sort of climate.

Shopping for clothing built for the outdoors can be tricky. Climate-friendly fabrics and comfort are front of mind. Outdoor Voices makes it simple. Many of their pants are wind and water-resistant. One of their most-loved items — the RecTrek pants — offer aninternal drawstring, two identical side pockets, and a media pocket. Customers have called them “resilient,” “dirt-shedding,” and “multi-functional.” All great adjectives to describe what sets Outdoor Voices apart from some other gym-focused brands.

Best for yoga: Aerie

Shipping: Automatic free shipping is valid for orders of USD 75 or more. Standard carrier rates apply to all other orders. Shipping costs are determined by the size and weight of the package.

Returns: Returns with proof of purchase will be refunded in the manner in which the original purchase was made.If you don’t have proof of purchase, Aerie will allow you to make an exchange or give you store credit.

Aerie may be better known for its ultra-comfortable underwear, but the brand also offers a diverse selection of workout pieces that flatter a variety of body types. In addition to inclusive sizing, they also offer competitive pricing. Many leggings are under $40 and sports bras are under $30, making this one of the more affordable options for anyone working out on a budget.

There are a couple of reasons why I love this brand. Leggings are offered from XS to XXL and come in three different lengths — so you can find a pair that hugs all your curves. Their OFFLINE ByAerieHigh Waisted Leggings are designed with Aerie’s signature lightweight cotton material that is exceptionally breathable and soft enough to wear to the studio or to sleep. Collections are offered in a wide range of colors and cuts, but most Aerie pieces have an air of youthful, carefree, easy-going playfulness that makes it so easy to wear them day after day. I’d certainly recommend this brand to anyone interested in lower-intensity workouts or lounging, but it may not be the top choice for serious athletes.

How We Tested

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To provide a comprehensive review of the top workout brands, we’ve assessed each brand based on a few different factors — material, style, and fit.

Material: Common fabrics used in workout clothing include cotton, nylon, spandex, bamboo, mesh, and elastane. When evaluating athleticwear that was intended for higher-impact workouts, we looked for more structured, thicker and compressive material. For workout clothing advertised for lighter-impact workouts or yoga, we tested for breathability, elasticity, and comfort. Other points considered include the care instructions, the tendency to wrinkle, and durability.

Style: A few style elements were considered in evaluating each brand — the range of color options, patterns and graphics, as well as the variety of shapes and cuts. Since the preferred style is specific to individual shoppers, our review is more focused on the variety of styles provided by each brand, versus the quality of the style that the brand offers.

Fit: Each brand we evaluated offered slightly different size ranges and length options. We’ve made note of brands that offer more customizable pieces — such as leggings that can be customized to different lengths and sports bras that take into consideration cup size. While workout clothing is more likely to offer some stretch than other garments, we still tested to ensure that products fit true to size or run larger or smaller than advertised. For sports bras, specifically, we evaluated whether the fit offered more or less support.

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