Ready to flex your style muscles? Here's what to consider when picking out the best gym clothes to help you meet your fitness goals. From gym shorts to breathable tees, REP has the apparel you need to support your efforts — because the right gym outfit can change your workout.
How to Build the Best Gym Outfits: Comfort and Unrestricted Movement
Wondering what to wear to the gym that won't get in the way? You've come to the right place. Look for a gym outfit with four-way-stretch fabrics, multiple inseams, and smooth, non-scrunch waistbands that won’t dig into your waist. We’re a big fan of the under-leg gusset on gym shorts (and the Foris Boxer Briefs), which allows for a greater range of motion and less tension on the crotch. Check out the Pinnacle Shorts for the bottom half of a high-performance workout outfit that's equally as comfortable. Or search the full line of women's gym shorts.
As a layer on top, check out the Men’s Long-Sleeved Tri-Blend Crew --blending softness, stretch, and breathability. Or if you want a pumpcover to keep your body hidden until you're ready for a show, the Men's Magnis Heavyweight Tee features a dropped shoulder for added mobility.
For a baselayer on the bottom, check out the Men's Virtus Light Compression Tights that allow airflow to keep your cool while still providing light compression as you train. For compression that hits in all the right places, check out the full collection of women's workout leggings.
Also, look for shirts without itchy tags. A tag-free shirt with a care label printed on the fabric is a must-have. Why again are we still making itchy tags when we can visit Mars? The Tri-Blend Crew Shirt does it right. No stupid tag in sight.
Flattering Fit
When you look and feel good, you perform better. Turns out, the saying “dress for success” has some truth to it. A study in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology found that what you wear affects how you act and perceive the world. In other words, you kinda are what you wear.
So, it’s not just about a new tee with an athletic cut that accentuates your muscles (see: the Daily Driver 2.0) or a pair of shorts that look and feel good in and out of the gym (see: Apollo Shorts and Women's Vellus Shorts). It’s actually functional, and it’s called “enclothed cognition:” How you dress affects your mental state, too. It’s almost like putting on a costume that signals you to act the part. And studies show you do.
Lifting during bulking season? You can still look good. The Men’s Bulk Up Heavyweight Tri-Blend Crew T-Shirt was designed specifically for bulk season. It delivers a bigger, thicker fit that stands up to serious training and off-day lounging.
Looking for a matching set that takes you from the gym to your recovery session? The Women's Vellus Hoodie and Vellus Jogger comes in heather black, heather cool gray, and heather wine, to have you feeling cute and cozy and ready for the work.
Wicking Fabric
Your gym clothes have technical functions, too. When needed, a nice hoody or long-sleeved shirt on top can keep your muscles warm and ready for action. And moisture-wicking, breathable fabric can pull the sweat away from your skin to keep you dry and comfortable. The Felix Pants are an example of men’s workout pants with high-quality, moisture-wicking fabric.
Anti-Odor Treatment
Shower and deodorize your pits as much as you want, but gym clothes can get ratchet. Look for workout apparel treated with Silvadur silver ion anti-microbial/anti-odor treatment to keep them smelling good for a long time – and keep you from being That Guy at the gym (yes, even at your home gym). All REP workout apparel is Silvadur-ed, including the Rhea Cropped Tank and Attis Shorts.
Layers
Smart layers can keep your body at the optimal temperature. They can warm up your muscles when they’re cold (or it’s cold out) and help your body temp drop when you’re going too hard. You can always throw a Long-Sleeved Tri-Blend Crew Shirt on top to start – or of course, a hoodie. You’ll live in the Unisex Zip Hoodie, in and out of the gym. It comes in five different colors, too. Not saying you need five different colors of hoodies, but also not saying you don’t.
Don't want the hood? The Unisex Daily Driver Crewneck Sweatshirt is your go-to layer for warmth and versatility.
Workout Outfit Sets
Take the guesswork out of your workout attire with workout sets — typically a matching pair of joggers, shorts, or leggings and a top. The Vellus Women's Hoodie and Joggers are durable and comfortable, easily taking you from your workout into cozy recovery. Plus, for an athlesisure capsule wardrobe staple, you can find this set in a classic black, heather cool gray, and heather wine.
Pockets
This isn’t a must-have, but it’s sure nice to have somewhere to stash your keys, ID, or phone while you lift. Look for hidden waistband pockets (like on the Hera Tights) to stash small items without sticking out and ruining your fit. And high hip pockets hold your phone in place while you’re active – without it flopping around and distracting you. Even the Men's Apollo Jogger has hand pockets with a small zipper pocket to keep whatever you need close at hand.
Versatility
Pick clothes you can use for a variety of types of workouts – from lifting to running – and also clothes that look great when you leave the gym and head to lunch with your friends. Get the most bang for your buck with clothes you can work and play in.
Hook it up: The Versa Shorts are equal parts performance and lifestyle. Check out all the shorts here.
Quality
Above all, pick gym clothes that will last. Sure, it might be tempting to stock up your closet with a bunch of cheap junk from questionable websites, but more isn’t always more. Instead, pick clothes that will last, not disintegrate in the wash, and feel good on your body. Like the Midweight Crew Sock and Midweight Low Cut Sock, which both feature an abrasion resistant, moisture-wicking fabric, and a performance mesh instep that keeps your feet cool as your workouts heat up.
Check out REP's full apparel collection here.
Want more inspiration?
Peep all the men's apparel options here.
Here's a look at all of REP's women's apparel offerings.
Find plenty of options for your gym fit in our Performance Line.
FAQs
What are the best workout outfits for women?
Choose the clothing that makes you feel confident, while also supporting your movement. If you're tackling high-intensity training, the Hera Tights offer a breathable, four-way stretch fit, that's quick drying to help keep you comfortable. For low-intensity training, like yoga or pilates, the Eos Tights offer a slightly less compressive, and more comfortable, fit.
What are the best men's workout outfits for the gym?
The best workout clothes for you depends on what makes you feel comfortable, confident, and doesn't restrict movement. Check out the Men's Motus Shorts, which are lightweight and quick drying. Pair them with the Sigmatech Tank Top for a comfortable gym-fit that won't restrict movement.
Is wearing workout clothes to work appropriate?
Wearing workout clothes to work depends on your job, but with the advancement in fitness apparel, and the acceptance of this being appropriate casual attire, you can find pieces that can work in an office setting. The Men's Felix Pant 2.0 offers a tailored look that's suitable for the gym and your 9 to 5.
Aimee Heckel, CPT, is a health and fitness journalist with over 20 years of experience. She set an all-time world-record deadlift in her division across all powerlifting federations at Mr. Olympia. In addition, she earned a national deadlift record and 18 Colorado state records. Heckel also has nine world records in grip sport, a pro card in natural figure bodybuilding, four first-place bodybuilding titles, and was named IPE Ms. Colorado Figure.
This article was reviewed by Rosie Borchert, NASM-CPT, for accuracy.
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