Choosing gym clothes is about finding a balance between style and performance. Some brands do this well, using fabrics and designs that make a real difference. I’ve found that when I wear the right gear—whether I’m running on the treadmill or pushing through a HIIT class—everything just clicks. The clothes move with me, supporting my every move. I feel more focused and comfortable, with nothing holding me back from pushing my limits.
Top Brands with Sweat-Wicking Technology
Here are some leading brands that combine fashion with function:
- Nike Dri-FIT: Nike’s Dri-FIT technology uses advanced fabrics to pull sweat away from your skin, helping you stay dry and comfortable throughout your workout.
- Lululemon’s Nulu Fabric: The Align High-Rise Pant is made from this sweat-wicking fabric, offering great stretch and comfort, while keeping you cool during intense exercises.
- Gymshark’s Seamless Technology: Gymshark’s workout gear is designed to wick moisture away and has smart contouring for a flattering fit, supporting your body through each movement.
These brands combine high-performance fabrics with stylish designs. Their gym clothes help you stay cool, dry, and confident, making them great choices for anyone who wants both function and style in their fitness wardrobe.
Nike
Nike is known for its gym wear that combines style and performance, especially for sweat-wicking. Their Dri-FIT technology keeps athletes dry and comfortable, making it a top choice for those with intense workout routines.
Sweat-Wicking Fabrics
Nike’s Dri-FIT technology has a hydrophobic layer that pulls sweat away from the body, moving it to the surface where it evaporates quickly. This system helps athletes stay dry and focused, even in hot or intense workout conditions.
Supportive Designs
Nike’s gym clothes, like the Nike Metcon shoes, offer great stability and durability, making them perfect for strength training and HIIT. They focus on freedom of movement and high performance.
Durable Construction
Nike’s Dri-FIT line uses lightweight, breathable mesh materials that let moisture and air circulate. The mesh ventilation helps release heat and sweat, particularly in areas where athletes sweat the most.
Sexy Silhouettes
Nike’s apparel, such as leggings and sports bras, fits closely to highlight the body’s shape. The Dri-FIT fabrics, made from polyester and spandex, provide stretch and recovery for comfort, support, and a flattering fit.
Innovative Styles
Nike’s gym clothes not only perform well, but also look great. Whether it’s bold patterns or sleek monochromes, their designs boost confidence. Wearing stylish and functional workout gear can improve motivation and overall workout performance.
Lululemon
Lululemon is a top brand known for its high-quality activewear that blends style, comfort, and functionality. Their clothing is made for excellent performance, especially in terms of sweat-wicking, making it a popular choice for those who exercise hard.
Fabric Excellence
Lululemon’s Energy Bra is made from Luxtreme™ Fabric, which is smooth, low-friction, and stretches in all directions. This fabric boosts comfort, keeps you cool, and offers sweat-wicking properties. The addition of Lycra® fiber helps the bra hold its shape and adds stretch for a better fit. It stays cool even during the toughest workouts.
The Align High-Rise Pant often features Nulu fabric, known for its softness and sweat-wicking abilities. It provides ultimate comfort during yoga, running, or gym workouts.
Comfort and Fit
The Energy Bra offers medium support with a scoop neck and stylish back straps. It also has pockets for removable cups, making it versatile and comfortable. This thoughtful design makes the bra perfect for activities ranging from yoga to high-intensity exercises.
The Align High-Rise Pant has a high-waisted fit, giving you full coverage and support. Its flexibility makes it great for a variety of workouts, from stretching to strength training.
Sexy Details
Lululemon combines comfort with style. The Energy Bra features trendy criss-cross straps at the back, adding both function and flair. Many of their products also include mesh panels and cut-out designs, which improve breathability and give the clothes a fashionable look, making them perfect for both the gym and casual outings.
Versatile Pieces
Lululemon’s designs are highly versatile, easily transitioning from the gym to everyday wear. The Energy Bra is ideal for bike sessions, boot camps, yoga, and even casual wear. Similarly, the Align High-Rise Pant can be worn during workouts or styled for casual outfits, offering both performance and style.
Gymshark
Gymshark is a popular brand that blends stylish designs with high-performance fabrics to create workout gear that is both functional and fashionable. Their clothes are made with moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester and nylon, helping you stay dry and comfortable throughout your workout. These materials pull sweat away from your skin and evaporate it quickly, which is key for long, intense training sessions.
Trendy and Functional Designs
Gymshark’s apparel combines both style and function. The brand uses seamless technology and clever contouring to create a tight, body-hugging fit that enhances your physique while offering essential support. This fit not only boosts your appearance but also improves comfort and performance during workouts.
Innovative Collections
Gymshark offers a range of innovative collections, including the Vital and Flex lines. These collections feature stylish options like leggings, sports bras, and workout shirts that perform well and look great. For example, the Geo Seamless T-Shirt is lightweight and breathable, with moisture-wicking properties that keep you cool and dry while offering freedom of movement.
Moisture-Wicking and Anti-Odor Technology
Gymshark’s moisture-wicking shirts are made from synthetic materials that include anti-odor technologies like ESNCE™️ and Ionic+® Antimicrobial Technology. These features work together to keep you fresh and comfortable by preventing unpleasant smells and promoting better ventilation.
Sexy and Supportive Fit
One of Gymshark’s standout features is its ability to create apparel that is both sexy and functional. Their tight-fitting clothes are designed to enhance your curves while providing the necessary support during your workout. Whether you’re wearing sports bras, leggings, or workout tops, Gymshark ensures maximum comfort and performance.
With breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics and a focus on supportive designs, Gymshark’s workout clothes are perfect for those who want to look good while performing their best.
Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices combines functionality and fashion to create stylish gym wear that performs well during workouts and looks great. Their clothing, like the Exercise Dress, is made from breathable LightSpeed fabric, making it lightweight and moisture-wicking. It’s perfect for activities such as running, cycling, and tennis.
Key Products
- Exercise Dress: This dress includes built-in shorts and adjustable straps, offering comfort and flexibility. It also features two pockets for convenience and interior grips to keep the shorts from riding up.
- Hudson Shorts and Doing Things Bra: These are also popular, but the Exercise Dress is unique for its design and versatility.
Versatility & Styling
- The Exercise Dress suits active lifestyles. It’s ideal for both sports and casual wear. It’s great for activities like running, cycling, and walking, but not the best for group workouts like yoga or Pilates.
- On cooler days, style it by layering a sweatshirt over it or tying it around your waist.
Stylish Appeal
- Outdoor Voices is known for vibrant bright colors and sleek designs. Their workout clothes are both stylish and functional. The Exercise Dress has a sporty silhouette that’s similar to cheerleading uniforms but with a modern twist.
Performance Features
- The moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry, even during intense workouts. The built-in shorts reduce chafing, allowing you to move freely.
- Hidden pockets and adjustable fits add convenience. Since the dress doesn’t have a built-in bra, you’ll need a separate sports bra for high-intensity exercises.
Athleta
Athleta offers high-performance gym clothes designed to keep you dry and comfortable, especially for runners. Their products are made with moisture-wicking fabrics like recycled polyester and TENCEL®, which help manage sweat and moisture during intense workouts. Whether you’re running, cycling, or hiking, Athleta’s apparel keeps you cool and dry as you push your limits.
Best for Runners
Athleta’s running apparel is ideal for athletes who want both performance and comfort. Their jackets, shorts, and skorts provide great support and freedom of movement. The high-rise designs with mesh panels improve ventilation and keep you dry throughout your run.
Sexy Fit and Function
Athleta combines style and function. Their gym clothes fit well and offer support, with stretchy materials that let you move freely. Whether you’re lifting weights, cycling, or doing yoga, their apparel works for various activities.
Eco-Friendly Fabrics
Athleta is committed to sustainability. Many of their products use eco-friendly materials like recycled polyester, organic cotton, and TENCEL®. Since 2014, they’ve diverted over 38 million plastic bottles from landfills by using recycled fabrics.
Innovative Fabrics
Athleta’s new Train Collection features PowerMove Fabric, made for high-intensity movements. Tested by both professional athletes and everyday users, this fabric maintains its shape, is breathable, and provides excellent moisture-wicking performance.
Sustainable Milestones
Athleta continues to push sustainability. Currently, 60% of their materials are made from sustainable fibers. Their Spring/Summer swimwear collection includes 85% sustainable styles, using materials like H2Eco and AquaRib, which are made from regenerated nylon sourced from discarded fishing nets.
Adidas
Adidas is a top brand in sportswear, known for stylish, high-performance gym clothes. These clothes are designed to keep you comfortable and dry during intense workouts. Adidas uses innovative technology and offers a range of designs to help you get the most out of your workout.
Climalite Technology
- Moisture-Wicking: Adidas’ Climalite fabric pulls sweat away from your body and moves it to the surface, where it evaporates. This keeps you dry and comfortable during exercise.
- Odor Control: Climalite also prevents odor-causing bacteria, so you stay fresh and cool, even during long, intense workouts.
Stylish and Functional Activewear
- Fashionable Designs: Adidas offers a wide range of trendy gym clothes that are both functional and stylish. You can find options like lifestyle clothing, graphic t-shirts, reflective jackets, and more. These pieces are perfect for both workouts and everyday wear.
- Form-Fitting Apparel: Adidas clothes are designed to highlight your physique while giving you the best performance. Expect comfort and style in items like seamless leggings and supportive sports bras.
Innovative Performance Gear
- Enhanced Freedom of Movement: Adidas uses designs like mesh inserts in shorts and seamless leggings to improve ventilation and mobility during workouts.
- Supportive Features: Many pieces, such as sports bras and leggings, offer snug fits and extra comfort for high-intensity activities.
Versatile and Lightweight Materials
- Breathable Fabrics: Adidas gym clothes are made from lightweight, breathable materials like polyester and elastane. These fabrics keep you cool and ensure your clothes stay in place during exercise.
- Quick-Drying: The materials dry quickly, helping you stay dry and comfortable throughout your workout.
Environmental Considerations
- Sustainable Designs: Some Adidas Climalite products are made from recycled polyester, which helps reduce environmental impact while maintaining high performance standards.
Adidas offers a wide selection of gym clothes that focus on performance, comfort, and style, making it a leader in activewear.
Under Armour
Under Armour is a popular choice for gym clothes. They offer high-performance sweat-wicking capabilities, while also focusing on comfort and style. Their fabrics and form-fitting designs help keep you dry, supported, and confident during your workout.
HeatGear and ColdGear Technology
Under Armour has two fabric technologies for different climates:
– HeatGear is made for hot conditions. It keeps you “cool, dry, and light” by quickly wicking away sweat and drying fast. The fabric is ultra-thin, which spreads sweat out to maximize cooling during intense workouts in warm weather.
– ColdGear is perfect for cold weather. It keeps you “warm, dry, and light” while ensuring comfort. It also wicks sweat and dries fast, keeping you warm without feeling heavy.
Compression and Muscle Support
Under Armour’s compression gear supports your muscles and gives you stability by hugging the body. This reduces the risk of injury during intense activities. The compression also boosts blood flow, delivering more oxygen to your muscles and reducing fatigue and soreness. The form-fitting design enhances performance and creates a flattering silhouette, which is perfect for those who want to highlight their physique.
Aesthetics
Under Armour’s workout clothes are both functional and stylish. With bold colors and sleek designs, their gym apparel boosts your confidence to push yourself further. Clothes that make you feel strong can improve your motivation and performance, making Under Armour a great choice for anyone looking to look good while working out.
Durability and Performance
Under Armour is known for its durability. Their apparel can withstand intense workouts and keep its shape after many washes. The compression shorts offer a secure, comfortable fit that moves with your body. They also provide UV protection, with long-sleeve compression tops to protect your skin during outdoor activities.
Fabletics
Fabletics is a well-known brand that combines both performance and style. It’s a popular choice for gym-goers and fashion lovers alike. Their activewear collections are updated every month, offering bright colors and unique prints that keep you looking great even during a workout.
Sweat-Wicking Technology
Fabletics uses moisture-wicking fabrics like Performance Jersey and PowerHold®. These fabrics keep you dry and comfortable, even during intense workouts. The PowerHold® fabric is especially effective, providing high compression to lift, sculpt, and support your body, all while keeping you cool and dry.
Stylish Cuts and Designs
Fabletics offers gym clothes that flatter your natural curves and keep you stylish. Their collection includes high-rise leggings, such as the Define PowerHold® High-Waisted 7/8 Legging, which has a mesh lining to smooth your shape. They also feature strappy sports bras and other trendy pieces that provide essential support and a flattering fit.
Inclusive Sizing
Fabletics stands out for its commitment to inclusivity. With sizes ranging from XXS to 3X, Fabletics ensures every woman can find activewear that suits her body type and style. This makes it a brand that promotes a healthy, active lifestyle for women of all sizes.
Reebok
Reebok’s gym clothes combine performance, style, and sustainability, making them a popular choice for fitness enthusiasts. A key feature is Speedwick technology, which quickly draws sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable during your workout. This technology is used in several Reebok products, including the Training Tech T-Shirt, made from 100% recycled polyester interlock. The fabric moves sweat away from the body, making it perfect for high-intensity workouts.
Stylish and Functional Design
Reebok makes gym wear that’s both high-performing and stylish. For example, the Training Moisture-Wicking Tech T-Shirt has a sleek crewneck design and a logo print on the left chest. The shirt also has a mesh back panel to improve ventilation, keeping you cool while looking good.
Supportive and Comfortable Sportswear
Reebok’s sports bras and leggings are designed for support and comfort, enhancing your natural shape during workouts. While specific details aren’t provided, Reebok’s focus on performance and fit suggests that these garments are meant to boost your confidence and keep you feeling secure during your training.
Innovative Collections
Reebok offers collections that cater to different workout needs:
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REECYCLED Collection: This collection includes items like the Performance Certified Speed+ Shorts, made with at least 30% recycled or repurposed materials. These shorts feature Speedwick fabric, a zip stash pocket, and reflective details for visibility in low light—perfect for workouts, day or night.
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Training Tech T-Shirt Line: Designed for HIIT and core circuit workouts, these t-shirts come in various colors and feature breathable, moisture-wicking fabric to keep you comfortable and focused.
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Training Sleeveless Tech T-Shirt: This sleeveless option has a regular fit and mesh back panel for extra ventilation, making it a great choice for intense training sessions.
These collections mix fashionable designs with functional performance, giving you versatile options that offer both comfort and style during your workouts.
Puma
Puma is a brand known for combining performance with style. Their gym clothes reflect this by offering both comfort and advanced technology.
DryCELL Technology
Puma’s DryCELL technology is a key feature in their gym clothes. It helps keep you dry by wicking moisture away from your body. This technology is used in products like the PUMATECH Men’s Pocket Tee, Run Favorite Men’s Tee, and RUN CLOUDSPUN Men’s Long Sleeve Running Tee, keeping you comfortable even during intense workouts.
Fashion-Forward Activewear
Puma offers a wide variety of stylish gym clothes that perform well. For example, the PUMATECH Men’s Pocket Tee combines function with a tech-inspired look. It features a woven patch pocket and PUMATECH tape detail on the hem, mixing practicality with sleek design. The Run Favorite Men’s Tee also stands out with an all-over print graphic and reflective elements, making it a great choice for day and night workouts.
Flattering Fits
Puma prioritizes comfort and movement in its designs. Many of their clothes have ergonomic cutlines that allow for better mobility and a flattering fit. For instance, the Run Favorite Men’s Tee has cutlines that allow for easy movement, while the PUMATECH Men’s Pocket Tee offers a regular fit and a ribbed crew neck for a classic look.
Versatile Designs
Puma’s range includes different styles for various workout needs. Whether it’s the PUMATECH Men’s Pocket Tee with its practical pocket or the RUN CLOUDSPUN Men’s Long Sleeve Running Tee with reflective details, Puma offers options that combine style and performance. Their leggings and sports bras also provide a perfect mix of comfort and fashion.
Sustainable Materials
Puma focuses on sustainability along with performance. Many of their products, like the PUMATECH Men’s Pocket Tee, are made with at least 50% recycled materials. This makes Puma a good choice for athletes who care about the environment.
Additional Features
Puma gym clothes also include practical features like reflective accents for visibility in low-light conditions and high-density logos for added style. Whether you’re running outdoors or at the gym, these details improve both safety and style.
Sweaty Betty
Sweaty Betty offers activewear that blends style and performance. Their collections, like the Power Range, are perfect for activities such as running, cycling, weightlifting, and yoga.
Moisture-Wicking Fabrics
Sweaty Betty uses lightweight, quick-drying fabrics. Their Zero Gravity range is ideal for high-intensity workouts, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout.
Stylish and Flattering Designs
Sweaty Betty is known for flattering cuts that enhance your figure. The Zero Gravity Leggings are a great example. They offer a bum-sculpting fit, high-waisted design, and adjustable waistbands. The Super Soft range features buttery-soft leggings that sculpt your bum and also elongate your legs.
Wide Range of Products
Sweaty Betty provides a variety of workout gear to meet different fitness needs:
- Power Leggings: Available in full length and 7/8 crops. These leggings are versatile for many activities.
- Zero Gravity Leggings: High-waisted and adjustable, designed for running.
- Ultra High Impact Running Bra: A high-support, non-padded sports bra with breathable mesh panels.
- Breathe Easy Range: Lightweight, sweat-wicking t-shirts and tank tops, often made with recycled polyester.
- Athlete Seamless Range: Workout tops made from technical materials, offering a supportive fit for different workouts.
Fabric Types and Their Properties
When selecting gym clothes that offer great sweat-wicking performance, the fabric type is essential. Here are the most common fabrics used in activewear, along with their key properties:
Synthetic Fabrics
- Polyester: Polyester is a lightweight and durable fabric known for its excellent moisture-wicking abilities. It pulls sweat away from the skin and spreads it across a larger surface for quicker evaporation. This makes it ideal for quick-drying, breathable workout gear.
- Nylon: Nylon is a strong, durable fabric that resists abrasion. It also has great moisture-wicking properties. The smooth, lightweight texture provides comfort and helps draw moisture away during intense workouts.
- Polypropylene: Polypropylene is a fast-drying, lightweight fabric that excels in moisture-wicking. It’s especially effective during high-intensity workouts, keeping you dry and comfortable.
Natural Fabrics
- Merino Wool: This natural fiber is moisture-wicking by nature, absorbing sweat without feeling damp or heavy. Merino wool also regulates temperature, helping you stay cool during intense workouts or warm in cooler conditions.
- Bamboo: Bamboo fabric is known for its breathability and moisture-wicking qualities. Its lightweight and comfortable feel makes it a great choice for activewear, ensuring a soft, dry experience even during long workouts.
Key Factors Influencing Moisture-Wicking Performance
- Capillary Pressure: This force moves moisture across the fabric, allowing it to spread and evaporate.
- Permeability: Permeability refers to how easily moisture passes through the fabric, which depends on the space between fibers.
- Yarn Twist and Yarn Roughness: These factors affect how well moisture moves within the fabric. A tightly twisted, rough yarn improves moisture-wicking performance.
- Knit or Weave: The fabric structure, whether knit or woven, plays an important role in how moisture is drawn away from the skin.
Moisture-wicking fabrics are essential for keeping you dry during exercise. They spread moisture across a large surface area, allowing it to evaporate quickly. This prevents discomfort from damp clothing and improves both thermal comfort and performance.
Care and Maintenance of Workout Clothes
Taking care of your workout clothes properly can help them last longer and perform better.
Wash in Cold Water
Always wash your activewear in cold water (below 40°C). This prevents damage to fabrics like elastane and spandex, which can lose their elasticity or shrink in hot water.
Turn Clothes Inside Out
Turning your gym clothes inside out before washing helps protect outer coatings, logos, and designs. It keeps both the look and functionality intact.
Use a Mild Detergent
Use a mild detergent without optical brighteners or fabric softeners. Harsh detergents can damage the fabric, while mild ones clean well and preserve moisture-wicking properties.
Avoid Fabric Softener
Fabric softeners can affect the performance of moisture-wicking fabrics by trapping odors and reducing breathability. Skip the softener for the best results.
Air Dry and Avoid Heat
Air drying is the best method for drying your workout clothes. Lay them flat or hang them on a clothing rack. Don’t wring them out, and never use a tumble dryer. Heat can damage the fabric and reduce elasticity.
Use a Mesh Laundry Bag
To protect delicate items like zippers and prevent fabric snags, use a mesh laundry bag. This also protects your washing machine.
Fight Odors Naturally
For stubborn odors, soak your clothes in a mix of white vinegar and water, or add baking soda to the wash. These natural deodorizers eliminate smells without harming the fabric.
Don’t Overload the Washing Machine
Avoid overloading the washing machine. When it’s too full, clothes don’t move around enough, making it harder to clean them properly and remove grime.
Additional Tips for Maximizing Performance
When choosing gym clothes, it’s important to make smart decisions. I’ve found that polyester or nylon fabrics work best for me. They pull moisture away from my skin, keeping me dry and focused. Cotton, on the other hand, can be uncomfortable during intense workouts. It traps sweat and makes everything feel heavy and sticky.
I always go for stretchy, well-fitting clothes because they let me move freely. Compression gear, like my favorite leggings, supports my muscles, helps with recovery, and keeps me warm when it’s cold.
Footwear is another key area for me. Lightweight shoes with cushioning are great for cardio, while flat soles give me the stability I need for weight training.
I also rely on accessories like a water bottle or fitness tracker. Fabrics with moisture-wicking technology, like those with WICKING WINDOWS™, help prevent cling and keep me fresh.
I always layer my gear for flexibility, especially when doing cross-training. I also make sure to follow care instructions so my clothes last longer.
Lastly, I find that wearing clothes that motivate me gives me a confidence boost before every workout.