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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. 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 budget-friendly options at Quince.
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.
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 sizes 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.
Miska Salemann wearing lululemon. Miska Salemann New York Post Review: I’ve lived in lululemon since middle school, and I still have some quintessential early 2000s lululemon staples in the back of my closet. But when it comes to their iconic, best-sellers, there is no question — that would be the Align Bra ($58) and Align leggings ($98-$118), 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.
Sizes: 0-20 | Shipping: Standard, Express, and Priority | Returns: Shoppers can make a return online or in-store within 30 days of the delivery date
If affordable luxury is what you’re after, Quince is the place to be. The brand offers a sea of high-quality, timeless basics without the high price tags, and the activewear selection seems to be flourishing. Rather than pumping out trend-inspired pieces, Quince focuses on well-constructed, minimalistic designs offered in neutral and basic colors — activewear that never goes out of style. The popular Ultra-Form fabric is butter soft, built with four-way stretch, and features quick-dry, moisture-wicking, and anti-microbial technology. While the sizing is limited for plus size, the leggings are offered in three inseams for a perfect length.
Miska Salemann New York Post Review: “I never imagined a day that I’d find a pair of leggings I like just as much as my lululemon Aligns. Well, that day has arrived, and I owe it all to Quince’s Ultra-Form Leggings ($40). These leggings are soft, and smooth, and slide over the skin so easily that I actually look forward to going to the gym. The thicker waistband adds some shape right where you want it. And, while I’m slightly less obsessed with the $30 Ultra-Form Bra (I was hoping for a little more support), it does provide good coverage and the wide bands make it much comfier than some others I’ve tested. Add the Ultra-Form Jacket ($50) to that set and you’ll nail the gym-girl look without the outrageous price tag. Quince’s sets are more minimalistic and understated, which I love for anyone looking to build a basic capsule wardrobe for the gym. The best part? They’re also reasonably priced. Something rare when it comes to activewear.”
Sizes: XS-XL | Shipping: Standard shipping is always free. Delivery time is typically 6-9 business days Returns: Items may be returned for a full refund or exchange within 365 days of the purchase date if they meet specific criteria.
If you thought this brand was just for yoga, think again. Beyond Yoga has become the athleisure label the girlies can’t stop wearing in and out of the gym — and for some good reasons. Its pieces come in a sea of flattering shades, from bright and vibrant to soft and wearable. Designed with four-way stretch and ultra-flattering high-waist silhouettes, they move with your body while sculpting it in all the right places.
Miska Salemann New York Post Review: When I tried Beyond Yoga for the first time, I was genuinely blown away. The fabrics feel noticeably more supportive and flattering than others I’ve tested, contouring to your curves without feeling restrictive. The high-waist silhouettes are especially ultra-flattering. The brand’s cult-favorite Spacedye Leggings ($99) are seamless and deliver gentle compression, making them just as ideal for active movement as they are for lounging on your day off.
Sizes: XS-XXL | Shipping: Free and standard shipping available | Returns: 30-days
Carbon38 is known for its elevated, sleek activewear selection, and its knockout silhouettes will have your entire workout class dropping their jaws. You’ve probably seen their glossy, liquid styles before — they’re hard to miss. The best-selling second skin fabrication, Melt, is one of our personal favorites. It offers ample support while sitting smoothly on the skin and following the body’s movement without any constriction. Everything has a bold, yet feminine edge and delivers just the right amount of support for your workout needs. The only flaw is in the price tags. But for an investment piece with a fashionable flare, none is better. Plus, Carbon38 carries a variety of other upscale workout brands, so you can find exactly what you’re looking for.
New York Post Review: A yoga instructor at my gym put me on to this woman-owned brand, and I haven’t looked back since. The Scoop Racerback Bra ($66) is ideal for everyday wear, lounging, or running errands. For a practical running pant, I can also recommend High Rise Sport Pocket Leggings ($118). Side pockets make for convenient access to your belongings, fitting keys, a card, and a phone. Not to mention, the combination of nylon and spandex is butter-soft and fits like a glove. While I may not attempt a marathon in these, they’re pretty much always reliable for a quick jog or hot yoga class.
Sizes: XS-XL | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $199, Economy is $6.99, Economy Select is $12, Expedited is $25, Overnight is $50 | Returns: After selecting a return reason, you can make an exchange or proceed with a return. Exchanges are free.
There are some workout clothing brands notorious for their high price tags — fortunately, Glowmode isn’t one of them. However, that doesn’t mean their offerings are of low quality. On the contrary, the brand’s leggings, tops, and sports bras are surprisingly durable, with ultra-soft fabric and sweat-friendly designs that you’ll quickly want to stock up on.
From Crossover Leggings to matching running jackets, it has something for every fitness occasion, including skirts, sports gloves to gym bags and runner’s belt bags.
Glowmode New York Post Review: “I was really surprised by the quality of the leggings and sports bras from Glowmode. For workout clothes, I’ve always thought that the more expensive stuff tends to hold up longer, but Glowmode completely proved my theory wrong. The fabric is so soft and breathable, and I love that the leggings have pockets — oddly rare in workout clothes for women. I’ve worn Glowmode on very long runs, aerobics classes and lifting, and they’ve held up beautifully, not showing sweat stains or losing their shape. The material isn’t see-through, either, and really smooths without feeling confining or like I’m wearing shapewear cosplaying as workout gear. Highly recommend, especially if you exercise almost daily, and need to own multiple sets but don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars.” — Holly J Coley, commerce deputy editor
Sizes: XS-XXL | Shipping: Free shipping with orders over $40 | Returns: 30-day
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.
Miska Salemann wearing Alo. Miska Salemann New York Post Review: 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 an elegant brunch in the city, and back home just in time for a 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 makes it easy to shop there year-round. So, does the brand live up to the hype? I’d say so.
Sizes: XXS- 2XL | Shipping: 1 to 5-day shipping available | Returns: Alo Yoga accepts returns for a full refund within 30 days of purchase.
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.
New York Post Review: 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 Bra ($89) and High Waist Leggings ($89). 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.
Sizes: XS-XXL | Shipping: Free shipping for orders over $50 | Returns: NEIWAI offers free returns on unworn or defective garments for all eligible US orders. Shipping fees are non-refundable.
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.
Miska Salemann wearing Free People. Miska Salemann New York Post Review: 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 ($98) and Square Neck Sports Bra ($48), 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.
Sizes: XS-XL | Shipping: FP Movement offers standard, express, and free shipping | 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.
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.
New York Post Review: Prepare to enter dreamland: Vuori’s material is cloud-soft and wrinkles far less than some other performance brands. However, 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 the bestselling All That Feels Sports Bra ($58) and Daily Skirt ($78) bring a level of sophistication to workout clothing. I recommend anything from the signature DreamKnit collection, too. These pieces are made to make you look and feel your best, and many are also made with recycled materials.
Sizes: XXS-XXL | Shipping: Free ground shipping for orders over $75, Express | 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.
