I learned from a very young age that being active does wonders for my mental health. Running, cycling, team sports; you name it, I have done it in the name of feeling good about myself. I love to feel strong and empowered, and what better way is there than throwing around a bunch of heavy things (or myself even)? The one thing that gets me more pumped than actually working out is the outfit I do it in. If I want to feel good, I need to look good, too. It’s all relative, considering 90% of the time I finish a sweaty mess, but the comfort and style of the clothes I’m wearing can really make or break a workout. Here are my top activewear brands that make me feel my best, rated by comfort, price, sizing, and style.
5. Aybl
Price: $ to $$
Comfort: 7/10
Sizing/Fit: 8/10
Style: 8/10
Originally a UK-based brand, Aybl has now become a popular and iconic activewear brand in many countries. I have multiple items from them, and I wear all of them frequently. Some things that I have noticed: the seam on the shorts often likes to roll up when doing higher intensity workouts. It’s not bad enough for me to not wear them, but it’s just enough to be annoying. On the flip side, one of the pairs of leggings I bought is one of my favorite pairs to work out in. I appreciate the cheaper price of some of the items, but others can get as pricey as Nike and Gymshark. I also am not a fan of the “booty scrunch”, and it is present on some of their shorts (and not done too well). Again, none of these are deal breakers for me but could be for others.
4. Lululemon
Price: $$$
Comfort: 9/10
Sizing/Fit: 10/10
Style: 9/10
We’re about to get brutally honest here: I can’t justify buying leggings for the price they sell them at. That being said, all of their products are extremely comfortable, stylish, and durable. I have one pair of leggings, and I can say that more times than not I reach for them when doing a low-intensity workout. All of the sports bras that I have worn are comfortable and provide the level of support they are marketed at. A disclaimer for this one is that you have to read the product description. Most of their leggings are tailored to lower-impact training, like yoga. You might not have as long-lasting of a product if you use it for cycling or lifting. Overall, Lululemon would be higher if not for the price point.
3. Paragon Fitwear
Price: $$
Comfort: 8/10
Sizing/Fit: 8/10
Style: 9/10
Paragon is known for its “Sculpt Seam” leggings, which are cut to define the curves in the hip and glute areas. While they are very comfortable, the design might be a little misfitting for those with less pronounced curves (coming from someone with less pronounced curves). Besides that, the material is great, the price is reasonable, and I feel like I look good during my workouts.
2. Gymshark
Price: $$
Comfort: 9/10
Sizing/Fit: 9/10
Style: 9/10
Everyone that likes to work out has heard about this one. It’s basic, but their patterns and styles are cute and comfortable. The sizing can vary depending on the item you’re ordering, but if you buy the right size the fit is always amazing. The outfits from this brand are my go-to when I want a heavy lift, cycling, or cardio session. Plus, they do sales throughout the year with large discounts.
1. NVGTN
Price: $$
Comfort: 9/10
Sizing/Fit: 10/10
Style: 10/10
With adorable strappy tops, buttery soft bottoms, and lightweight material: NVGTN is my favorite brand for workouts. Everything is reasonably priced and fits well. Plus, their products come in virtually every color! I love bright activewear, and this brand brings all the colors. They even do special launches for certain holidays that sometimes revolve around that holiday’s colors. Overall, an amazing brand if you are looking to order some new pieces.
No matter what your favorite activity is or how often you do it, just remember that you should feel good after doing it. Wearing something you like is a great way to help you enjoy it. Clothing is different for every person, and the only person that you should compare yourself to is you. Don’t let anyone else’s opinions affect what you buy and how you work out.