It’s that time of year when gyms and workout classes are busier than ever with fitness enthusiasts avoiding the cold outdoors and determined to stick to their New Year’s resolutions.
If you’re anything like me, looking forward to wearing a cute, new workout outfit is the best motivator to get yourself off the couch and to the gym. In an effort to put our best foot forward in 2026, we’re investing in workout clothes that help us feel and look our best, whether that means avoiding sweat stains after a heated workout class or holding the girls in place on a long run.
Our Favorite Workout Clothes
Grab our favorite workout gear for as little as $20, then keep scrolling to learn why we swear by these picks for tackling our own fitness goals.
Lululemon Swiftly Tech Long-Sleeve Shirt 2.0
lululemon
“When the weather is cooler, lightweight layers like this Lululemon long-sleeve shirt are crucial. I’ve worn this while on hikes, jogs, and to reformer Pilates classes. It’s moisture-wicking and hugs my torso in a comfortable way. Plus, it has convenient thumb loops on both sleeves. I sized down for a tighter fit.” — Izzy Baskette, shopping writer
Set Active Breathe LA Bra
Set Active
“As someone who exercises five to six days a week, I take my workout clothes seriously. For hot yoga, sculpt, and mat Pilates classes, I’m usually just throwing on a sports bra with leggings. This Set Active bra is a recent addition to my collection, and I’m obsessed with its V-neck design and contrasting white trim. Plus, the racerback design helps to prevent sweat from dripping onto my hair and face when I’m in downward dog.” — Izzy Baskette
MathCat Tank Top with Built-In Bra
Amazon
“I’m usually loyal to my athletic tanks from Lululemon and Athleta, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised by this $22 Amazon find, and now it’s my go-to for Pilates and barre classes. It has a built-in bra, which I love for low-impact workouts and throwing on as an easy outfit with shorts in the summer. Plus, it’s quick-drying and breathable — a must for avoiding sweat stains after heated workouts.” — Maggie Horton, shopping writer
Aerie Offline Real Me Xtra High-Waisted Leggings
Aerie
“My wife has tried workout sets by several high-priced brands, but she always says Aerie’s Offline set is her all-time favorite. She says these leggings never slide down and feel good even when they’re soaked in sweat. She loves the matching sports bra, too.” — Clint Davis, shopping editor
Splits59 Loren Seamless Tank
Splits59
“This top is my first pick regardless of whether I’m taking a spin or adult ballet class. It has a built-in padded bra that’s supportive, and the material is a combo of creamy, silky, and stretchy. I’ve even worn it with my jeans, and you couldn’t even tell!” — Rylee Johnston, shopping writer
Abercrombie YPB Sculptlux Sweetheart Sports Bra
Abercrombie & Fitch
“I’m picky about my sports bras, and this one offers both support and style. The tiny velvet taping really elevates the look, and the scoop back and sweetheart neckline are super flattering.” — Erin Johnson, editorial director
Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Leggings
lululemon
“I love all of my Lululemon leggings because they come in the perfect length for my long legs, last for years, and never fall down. This is the style I always reach for when I’m going for a run or hitting leg day at the gym because they keep me cool. Bonus points: They never require me to hunt down a lint roller to remove stuck-on cat hair or fuzz.” — Maggie Horton
Aerie Offline Real Me Hold Up! Sports Bra
Aerie
“My sister swears by this sports bra from Aerie. She lifts weights multiple times a week, but the bra supports her chest as she’s doing reps. Another detail she appreciates is that the bra is available in sizes up to DD, and it offers enough coverage to be worn alone as a workout top or underneath a T-shirt.” — Lindsey Greenfeld, senior shopping editor
437 The Bare Onesie
Four Three Seven
“I love 437 onesies for Pilates, yoga, and even daily walks or coffee runs. As a curvy petite person, I wasn’t sure this style would work for me, but it’s actually quite flattering. I love that I feel supported in all the right places and can see my form clearly during my reformer classes.” — Erin Johnson
Brooks Anthem 7 Running Shoe
DSW
“Our coverage of Jennifer Garner’s Brooks sneakers finally convinced me to hop on the bandwagon, and I’m now a huge fan. I walk and run on the pavement around our neighborhood, and these shoes are a joy to wear on that hard surface. They are so strangely lightweight that I genuinely never think about how my feet feel when wearing them — a big improvement over other running shoes I’ve worn.” — Clint Davis
Pepper Sculpting Leggings
Pepper
“There are only two pairs of leggings I’m always reaching for, and these have landed a coveted spot. I love them for lounging around the house or taking a spin class because they’re stretchy yet won’t roll down once I start moving. My favorite outfit pairing is an oversized sweatshirt for maximum coziness.” — Rylee Johnston
