29 Activewear Pieces You’ll Actually Want To Wear To The Gym (And Even After Working Out)

29 Activewear Pieces You’ll Actually Want To Wear To The Gym (And Even After Working Out)

BuzzFeed-Shopping·2026-07-10 05:00

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29 Activewear Pieces You’ll Actually Want To Wear To The Gym (And Even After Working Out)

Because wearing a matching set helps you lift a little heavier, I just know it in my heart.

Posted 9 hours ago

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by Rachel Dunkel BuzzFeed Contributor

I am a former editor and contributor to the BuzzFeed shopping team with over seven years of experience testing and recommending products that help make life a little easier, whether that’s ultralight gear, holy grail serum, jeans that fit just right, or anything in between.

Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.

1. A pair of crossover flared leggings so you can add a kicky new cut to your drawer of beloved tight ones. Get ready to be the envy of the Pilates studio, gym, and post-workout coffee run alike. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These flare leggings are amazing. The fit is super cute, especially with the flare at the bottom, and they hug in all the right places without feeling too tight. The fabric is soft, stretchy, and comfortable enough to wear all day. They move really well and don’t feel restrictive at all. Perfect for dressing up or keeping it casual — definitely a new favorite in my closet." —Natalia

Get them from Amazon for $29.99 (available in sizes XS–XXL, four lengths, a fleece-lined option, and 28 colors).

2. A medium-low support sports bra with a cool strappy back that straight up looks like part of a superhero costume. Don't worry, you're up to the task of protecting the city. And a high neck makes sure everything stays in place while you're doing it. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "This bra top is so supportive while being so sexy and it just adds to so many cute outfits. Now I can work out or wear it as a top, under a top to show the back off.... Endless possibilities but best part is how well they fit and keep the breasts separated - not looking like old or cheap sports bras. I am a DDD and have a very hard time finding bras and tops but these I bought four or six of in different colors and designs and couldn't be happier with my purchase. My better half loves it too so it a win across the board! Buy and buy more. Stock up on these hot tops!!!!!" –Amazon Customer

"This is awesome to wear by itself or even to wear under layers and it has good pads so you’re not nipping out! So comfortable too! The criss cross and straps are sooo cute. It fits perfect! I want to buy in more colors but the black is definitely the most versatile staple for my wardrobe. Not only is it cute to wear out or to the gym (hit for low impact only if you got larger ladies in front like me) I may take it to wear it hiking in Peru or Hawaii this year too! Please make more of these forever!" —Lynn

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and 10 colors and styles). 

3. A zip-up bodysuit to make a statement the next time you head to the gym or run errands. A zipper up the middle makes it easy to slip on, and its squat-proof compression fabric means you're covered for any and every activity you throw at it. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This long-sleeve workout piece feels like a second skin — silky, soft with the perfect stretch. It hugs your shape beautifully without being sheer, and suits both the gym and everyday wear. Love how comfy it is!" —Vladimir gomez

Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and 27 colors). 

4. A pair of biker shorts because it's hard to beat a slick new pair, isn't it? Even if you don't go for one of the patterned pairs, a fresh pair of black shorts is a statement in and of itself. And talk about versatility!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "I bought these to wear for a summer staple to wear under oversized T-shirts and they are perfect. They are like Lululemon material and are awesome." —Ellen Steen

"Perfect. Buttery like Lulu align. I searched Amazon for the perfect biker shorts and finally found them! These are buttery soft, great fabric, and all around amazing. You won’t regret this purchase!" —Amazon Customer

Get them from Amazon for $19.98+ (available in sizes XS–5XL, 10 colors, packs of two, and shorter inseams). 

5. Some mesh leggings for days when you want the coverage of pants and the breeze of shorts. Voila! A rock 'n' roll compromise.  

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "They are made from a really sturdy material and fit perfectly. They are more tight at the waist... definitely order size based on waist measurement. I like that they aren't extremely long like most other brands because I don't have to cut them. 10/10 would recommend." –Elizabeth

Get them from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and six colors). 

6. A Beyond Yoga Spacedye longline bra that's soft-yet-supportive — a rare combination in sports bras, if I'm beyond honest! I've tried this bra and was so happy to finally find a Beyond style that supports my DD boobs while still delivering that buttery feeling they're so well known for. Amazing stuff!

Beyond Yoga

Promising review: "I ended up liking these Simplicity bras more than I could have anticipated. They’re comfortably compressive without rubbing my skin raw beneath the armpits. I usually won’t buy sports bras that don’t have padding, but the double layer helps a lot! I now have one in three different colors!" —Alyssa K.

Get it from Beyond Yoga for $70 (available in sizes XXS–XXL and six colors). 

7. A pair of bright high-waisted running shorts with built-in briefs to bring the concept of dopamine dressing to your jogs. That weekly long run on Sunday is gonna be all the more fun in one of these 45 stunning pairs of solid-colored shorts, especially if you're on a treadmill and need to jazz up the experience. 

Emma Lord/BuzzFeed

BuzzFeed Shopping writerEmma LordLOVES these shorts and says: 

"ASK ME HOW OBSESSED WITH THESE SHORTS I AM, I DARE YOU!!! Real talk: I first bought these shorts because I'm in love with the similar ones you can get at Lululemon or Old Navy, but they're either expensive or sell out so fast. Turns out I love these even more! I love the huge range of colors you can buy these in, love that the high-waistedness of them meets about where my running crop top ends so I don't have to get bonkers with sunscreen, and love love loooooove the side pocket for my keys or phone. I have them in blue, pink, and yellow, and several pairs in black because I just keep collecting them every summer."

Get them from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and 45 colors). 

8. Or a pair of 2-in-1 running shorts whose longer shorts lining helps keep chafing at bay and gives you some extra coverage if you're really running like the wind. Go, you, go!

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I wear a medium, ordered a medium, and like how these fit. They are comfortable (no tugging, pulling, or rubbing) and sit nicely. The material stays comfortable even during a heavier workout or movement. They wash well, too. I'm glad I picked these up." —Tonja Drecker

Get them from Amazon for $22.99 (available in sizes XS–3XL and 14 colors). 

9. The famous Align cropped tank beloved by the internet for its buttery-soft feel, light support, and sleek cut. Worn for low-impact workouts or as a regular crop for your everyday style, it's a go-to, tested by the masses, and far and away approved.

Lululemon

Promising review: "I have this top in many colors and will continue to repurchase in other colorways. It is a perfect top for low-intensity workouts. I’ve had mine for several years, and they are in like-new condition. Worth every penny!!" —Anonymous

Get it from Lululemon for $68 (available in sizes 0–14 and nine colors). 

10. And the Align leggings to go with because science has yet to find a limit on the acceptable amount of leggings one can own, especially when they're as adored as this specific style.

Lululemon

Promising review: "Simply the best leggings on the market. I have another pair I bought several years ago that are my go-to pair, so I decided it was time to buy another. They are still in great condition after years of wearing for leisure, working out, running, and washing/drying regularly. Worth the money." —Anonymous

Get them from Lululemon for $128 (available in sizes 0–14, three lengths, and 11 colors).

11. A pair of scrunch-butt leggings and a matching crop top because 10 out of 10 imaginary scientists agree that having a matching set makes weights lighter, miles come easier, and your day all-around better. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "The material and look are expensive, and well-crafted. Similar to Gymshark, but with way better pricing. I’m 5’8, and the length is great. It is stretchy, yet holds you in, leaving you feeling confident and comfortable. The material isn’t see-through. I ordered it in almost every color after my first set." —Amazon Customer

Get them from Amazon for $34.95 (available in sizes XS–XL and 16 colors). 

12. A pleated tennis skirt that just makes me say eeeeeee! It's that cute. The pleats are beyond, it has built-in shorts so you can get sporty, and the high waist is comfy as can be. Good luck choosing what color you want!

www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "I definitely recommend it, the material is stretchy and soft. I purchased a 3X, and I could have gone down a size, but it’s comfortable for me. I also purchased the pink one, and I can’t wait to wear it. Big mama approval!! ❤️" —Suchafcknladi

Get it from Amazon for $26.99 (available in sizes L Plus–5XL Plus and 20 colors). 

13. A long-sleeve bolero for days when the AC at the gym is set wayyyy too high, even when you're working your tail off. Gotta layer up! It's also giving ballerina off-duty, which is always a plus. 

www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "Buy this! Buttery soft material, and it makes your workout outfit look so much cuter! Can’t wait to wear it all through the fall and winter!" —Sarah Waldrop

"Perfect for Pilates! Cute and comfortable. It’s a great addition to a workout, it fits, and it keeps my shoulders warm. True to size." —Gmv646

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and 15 colors). 

14. A sleeveless athletic dress that stuns for tennis games, long park strolls, the regular-degular gym, or anywhere you feel like showing it off. Its built-in shorts even have pockets for tennis balls, your phone, or even a little snack. Gotta fuel to win!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This is simply adorable. It's so comfortable and easy to wear. I loved how the shorts underneath are breathable and lightweight, so I wasn't sweating from them. The pockets are a decent size for my phone. It fits true to size but also stretches as needed. I highly recommend this." —A Johnson

Get it from Amazon for $37.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and 15 colors). 

15. A zip-up jacket whose breathable fabric and tight fit make it a delightful layer for making your way to your workout. The curved seaming on the front adds nice shaping as well. Okay, fancy!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I get so many compliments on this jacket and it is the best Lulu alternative I’ve found!"—Julia Ann

"BESTLULUALTERNATIVE,  😍 If you’re looking for a lightweight, smooth-textured, and durable workout sweater that won’t break the bank, this one is a must-have. From the moment I put it on, I was impressed by how soft and breathable the fabric feels against my skin. It provides just the right amount of warmth without feeling heavy, making it perfect for warming up, cooling down, or layering over a tank top.

"One of the best features of this sweater is its durability. Even after repeated washes, it holds its shape, doesn’t pill, and still feels as good as new. The stitching is solid, and the fabric resists wear and tear, which is rare for something in this price range.

"Speaking of price, this sweater is incredibly affordable compared to other high-performance brands. It delivers the same quality and comfort without the premium price tag. Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or just running errands, this sweater is a versatile addition to your wardrobe.

"Overall, if you want a stylish, lightweight, and long-lasting workout sweater without spending a fortune, this one is a fantastic choice!" —Shamonte Richardson

Get it from Amazon for $23.96 (available in sizes XS–XL and in 19 colors). 

16. A half-zip fleece pullover to layer over your fit so you can stroll into that gym with your head held high, knowing you're about to conquer that circuit. Confidence boost acquired. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I absolutely love this Half-Zip Fleece Pullover! The soft fleece feels incredibly cozy, and it’s very warm for winter — perfect for those chilly days outside. The color is exactly as shown online, which was a pleasant surprise.

It has that perfect oversize fit, making it super comfortable and I love to wear it spectating winter sports events or just staying warm on the go. The pockets are a great bonus, and the overall look is trendy and stylish without trying too hard." —T G

Get it from Amazon for $44.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and 33 colors). 

17. A pair of ~Dreamlux~ leggings whose silky smooth fabric feels even better than it looks (and it looks divine). Sweat-wicking and beautiful, these basics go beyond. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Super comfy. I usually don’t write reviews. I tried these first before buying Lulu, and they are the most comfortable leggings for everyday and even workouts. Highly recommended!" —Criselle Johnson

Get them from Amazon for $19.98+ (available in sizes XXS–XXL, two inseams, and 22 colors). 

18. A dry fit compression top so you can finally retire your old college rec soccer tee and have a dedicated one that's optimized for performance. It's quick-drying, comes in tons of cute colors, and will be there for you for every sweat sesh. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I have a good 20 of these shirts! I am a sweaty individual, and in the corporate setting, I don’t want to have sweat dripping down my arm! These shirts are such great quality, don’t fade, and look great! I use them for work, the gym, and going out! They are awesome!" —Almedina

Get it from Amazon for $14.98+ (available in sizes XS–XXL, tons of colors, and multipacks). 

19. A comfy ribbed bra and shorts set because sometimes the motivation of a matching set is just the boost you need to get up and start your workout. Go stun. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Literally SHOCKED at how good this is — my friends guessed Aritzia, Zara, Skims, etc. when I asked them where they thought it was from when I wore it. The set is super thick and of good quality. Fits like a glove, true medium. Legit shocked." —Allison K. Batinelli

Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in sizes S–L and 23 colors). 

20. A two-piece jacket and leggings workout set that'll help bring your love for quiet luxury to the gym. Layer over your favorite sports bra and a silk scrunchie, and you're good to go. 

www.amazon.com, Amazon

Promising reviews: "Material is thick, sturdy, and out of this world. It is such a stunning color. I have received numerous compliments since wearing this. Gym-friendly, but also Pilates-friendly!" —Malissa

"Really comfortable and not see-through! Loved the compression." —Alyss Chacon

Get it from Amazon for $33.95 (available in sizes XS–XL and 17 colors). 

21. A pair of Nike Pro tights for the folks out there who like repping a brand logo every now and again. These babies are made by some of the best in the biz, so you can expect top-notch performance, even on your toughest workouts. 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Love my new Nike black leggings. Sized perfectly for a great, comfortable fit. The last time I purchased these was well over five years ago. They last forever!! A big thumbs up!! 👍" —Melissa

Get them from Amazon for $35.31+ (available in sizes XS–XL and eight colors). 

22. A racerback tank top to help your back and arms catch a breeze when you're crushing on that Stairmaster and keep you cool post-sweat sesh as you frolic through the farmers market. Phew, what a relief!

www.amazon.com, Amazon

Promising review: "I love this shirt! It’s so comfortable to wear when I work out and is moisture-wicking. Love the back of the shirt. It motivates me to work out!" —Nicole Ripplinger

Get it from Amazon for $17.98 (available in sizes S–XXL and in 17 colors).

23. A pair of TikTok-famous textured leggings whose ruched booty makes for a delightful fit, while a stay-in-place waistband ensures you never have to stop your workout to readjust. Don't want to ruin those gains!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "As a millennial mom, I'm halfway on the TikTok bandwagon without shame. So when I saw these leggings come up again and again, I decided to trust the sea of people who rave about these leggings and purchased them. I usually buy my athletic wear at [lower] prices, but occasionally have spent this same amount for something I really liked. And TikTok did not let me down! These leggings are very soft and comfortable to wear... What I really like is the material pattern stretches over the curvy parts of me really nicely. These leggings make me feel great, and don't ride down below my waist and belly when I'm doing actual exercise. I started off with black and now want a couple of different colors to add to my athletic wardrobe." —Brianna Storch

Get them from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in sizes XS–4XL and 16 colors).

24. A longline sports bra so you can transition seamlessly between lifting and running errands without having to bring a boatload of extra layers with you to the gym. Love a top you can rock literally anywhere. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I am SO incredibly impressed with the quality of this. The fabric quality is comparable to Lululemon and other high-quality brands. I’ve worn it as a tank, with and without a sports bra underneath, and it can be worn without and still provide great support. This is the perfect tank to wear for workouts or as athleisure, whether running errands or hanging out. Super cute. Fits true to size." —JBrewer

Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and tons of colors). 

25. A classic pair of bike shorts you'll find yourself wearing for everything from yoga to jogs to styling with an oversize tee for a fun athleisure look. The world is your oyster. 

SuperFit Hero

Oh, and these have pockets! Reviewers say they love the high, supportive waistband and the compression fit that keeps them secure during movement.

SuperFit Hero is a woman-owned small business based in California specializing in premium plus-size activewear in sizes L–7XL.

Promising review: "I’ve had these for a while but have generally felt nervous about wearing skintight anything in public, so I haven’t given them a real test. Today I said, 'What the hell, you only live once,' and wore them on a hike. They were SO GOOD! Super supportive, wicking, zero chafing, stayed put both on the waist and the leg and laid flat under the waist belt of my pack. These shorts are the real deal. Just more confirmation that Superfit Hero is the place to go for serious athletic gear for larger bodies. I will definitely be hiking in them in the future!" —Mollie S.

Get them from SuperFit Hero for $75 (available in sizes L–7X and in four colors).

26. A scrunch butt romper with adjustable straps that cross the low back for days when you really feel like being voted Best Dressed. Pair with a chunky sock and sneaker, and wow, have you got a look. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "I wear this red bodysuit to both hot yoga and power yoga, and it holds up amazingly! It stays in place the whole time — no adjusting needed, even during the sweatiest flows. The color is bold, and I get compliments every time I wear it. It also doesn’t show sweat marks at all, which is a huge win for hot classes. I’m small-chested, so there’s a slight gap in the fabric at the chest when I bend down, but it’s not a big issue. The bra padding is removable, too, which I appreciate. Overall, it’s super comfortable and functional — definitely one of my favorite workout pieces." —Molly Black

"I *love* this! I’m very into the gym and have had a hard time finding a bodysuit that I feel comfortable working out in. I can wear this without a bra at the gym!! This is rare for me as a size 34DDD. It is squat-proof and adjustable. Guess what else, I tried this on under a skirt, and it SLAYED. Probably gonna buy more in different colors." —Andrea

Get it from Amazon for $28.23+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 17 colors). 

27. A cami-style sports bra so people with larger chests can get a ton more coverage while also adding a pop of color and texture while they're at it. But don't worry, the extra layer is mesh, so it's breathable as can be. 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Genuinely the best bras I've ever had. Fit me perfectly, despite my uncommonly large rack. Bra shops would lie to me constantly about my size, because they wouldn't have something to sell me otherwise, so getting these had been an enlightening experience. These are comfortable, durable, breathable, and support a LOT of weight with little struggle. And reduce the bounce almost entirely! Truly lifesaving bra." —Cooper

Get it from Amazon for $32.50+ (available in band sizes 34–50, cup sizes C–H, and six colors). 

28. A pair of lightweight legging-style joggers if you just can't decide which style to go for, and want the best of both worlds. Combining two of the best kinds of workout pants into one Super Pair? I'll take five. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "These are literally the best leggings/joggers I have ever owned, and I plan to eventually buy every single color. I originally saw these on TikTok and heard they were like the Lululemon ones but cheaper. I've never owned Lululemon leggings, but if they feel anything like these, then I have clearly been missing out. These are soft and absolutely perfect. I love the pockets, the jogger style, that they fit like leggings, and that they can be worn to the gym, or dressed up with a cute outfit. I need to buy every color of these before they're gone!" —Courtney 

"Love these joggers! If I could wear them every day, I would. I want to order a pair in every color. They are so soft and so comfortable. The waistband is thick and is high-waisted. They are very easy to move around in and fit as expected. The waistband is a little tight, but it stretches out as you wear it. I ordered a pair for my mom and told my best friend about them, and they loved them as well. These are good Lululemon alternatives and very affordable." —Alissa Frey

Get them from Amazon for $29.99 (available in sizes XS–3XL and 26 colors). 

29. A splurge-worthy Power Bra from Forme whose unique construction helps to gently pull your shoulders back, improving your posture during workouts or regular life. I wear this to yoga, the gym, and anywhere else I want to be standing a little taller. 

Forme

Promising review: "It’s taking a little bit of time to get used to wearing it, but I think that’s only because I’ve had such poor posture and it was weird having muscles engaged that had never been before. I am getting compliments about the fact that I don’t look slouched over anymore. I will be purchasing more so I can have it for everyday use and to use on my runs." —Raquel B

Get it from Forme for $178 (available in sizes XS–3XL, two arm hole sizes, and seven colors). 

Still looking for the perfect wardrobe update for *y-o-u*? Try these:

Summer Pieces That Reviewers Confirm Are Lightweight And/Or Breathable

Shorts Reviewers Who Wear Plus-Sizes Swear By For Summer

Affordable, Summery Clothing Pieces You’ll Want To Wear To The Office This Summer

If Your Summer Wardrobe Could Use A Refresh, These 27 Pieces Are A *Great* Start

Easy, Breezy Pieces Of Clothing Perfect For Warmer Weather

If You Have The Itch To Shop For New Clothes, These 44 Pieces Are Begging For Your Attention

Plus, accessories and finds from AmazonLands' EndLane BryantMacy'sNordstrom RackOld Navy, and Walmart

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Reviews for this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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