It's been a long time coming, but gyms have finally started to reopen following closure [1] due to the coronavirus pandemic. If you're rushing back to get every squat, lunge, thrust, and lift back into your weekly routine, you'll want to do so in style. While we've all been comfortable doing burpees and downward dogs in old sports bras, pyjama bottoms (we don't judge), and oversize tees in our living rooms, to various IG Live workouts from Body by Ciara [2] or playing Joe Wicks's YouTube videos [3] on repeat, we're guessing that you may want to elevate your outfit with some new activewear and accessories now that you're heading back to the gym. And what better time to revamp your workout wardrobe as we celebrate easing out of lockdown?
When it comes to your gym session, the phrase "dress for success" also applies. Not only will a new kit enhance your workout performance, but it'll also help increase your motivation levels and boost your confidence to walk back into a gym, too. According to a study by the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology [4], clothing can influence your behaviour and attitudes because it carries a symbolic meaning, subconsciously changing how you act. So there we have it, splurging out on a brand new kit is worth the investment if it's something you're able to do at the moment.
So go ahead and browse our round up of the most stylish activewear pieces that combine impressive form and functionality — from energy-boosting (and injury preventing) trainers for avid road runners, to athlete-approved gym leggings that have been created by one of the world's most creative sports textile engineers out there. And if you've recently watched the head-spinning documentary Seaspiracy on Netflix and want to make a change to support our ecosystem, we've also included sustainable, earth-friendly pieces, plus the must-have accessories to carry in your gym bag. Get ready for your best sweat session yet.
Alo Yoga Airbrush Leggings
Loved by A-listers around the globe including Taylor Swift [5], the Kardashians, Hailey Bieber, and Gigi Hadid, Alo Yoga paves the way for the most trend-forward pieces that look as great as they perform in the gym or studio. We won't blame you if you get totally lost in their website — they've got countless flattering styles and colourways to pick from — like the super soft Alo Yoga Airbrush Legging [6] (£57) in the Neon Apricot and Honeydew shades — not to mention their new range of gym-bag beauty from a Magnesium Reset Spray to their Enzyme Facial Cleanser that's perfect for a post-sweaty workout.
APL Techloom Wave Melange
If you're still obsessed with a neutral colour palette and want to incorporate the subtle tones into your workout gear, look no further than APL's selection of fancy footwear. We love the limited-edition Caramel & Almond shade of the APL Techloom Wave Melange [7] (£210), which is sure to turn heads in the gym. The slip-on shoe features integrated lace loops for a streamlined look, while the unique technology provides incredible comfort while putting an extra spring in each step.
LARQ Bottle Movement PureVis
Staying hydrated is essential for remaining focused and energised throughout your workout. Ditch the plastic bottles for a more eco-friendly option with the LARQ Bottle Movement PureVis [8] (£78), a super sleek, self-cleansing bottle that uses a UV-C LED light that busts bacteria, viruses, and bio-contaminants to purify your water. The stainless steel material makes it super lightweight so you can move more with less.
Lululemon Take Form Yoga Mat
If you're an avid yogi, you'll love Lululemon's new, one-of-a-kind 3D Take Form Yoga Mat [9] (£108), which features touch points to helps you feel your way around the mat and stay centred and focused in poses without needing to look down to keep your balance. Plus, it's made with natural rubber material that is sustainably sourced and FSC-certified to support the protection of forest ecosystems and the people, plants, and animals that inhabit them.
Wolven
Fall in love with the rich colours and psychedelic prints from Wolven. The brand's tagline is "Make Sustainability Sexy", and with just a quick browse through their site, you can see why. Their flattering pieces enhance the shape of the body, from the Wolven Ruched Crossover Pocket Leggings [10] (£70), that have a pinched waistband to the versatile Wolven Crisscross Four-Way Top [11] (£51), that can be worn any which way. The brand also aims to have the lowest possible impact on the planet, which it does through its packaging, product material (there's 27 bottles of recycled post-consumer bottles in each pair of leggings), and philanthropic efforts.
Evamoso The Kimmy Top
A great workout top is underrated, we want them to be breathable, versatile, moisture-wicking, and comfortable. Enter The Kimmy Top [12] (£40), from sustainable brand Evamoso. The vest is made with stretchy and buttery soft bamboo viscose that falls freely for those that want a loose fit, or for a more fitted look it can be tied up, too. Evamoso's commitment to protecting the planet is equally as impressive – from the Kraft all-paper mailers it uses and vegetable-based ink stickers, to the cotton hang tags and recycled fabrics.
Apple AirPods Pro
Studies have shown [13] that music can improve athletic performance in two ways: by delaying fatigue and increasing work capacity. Pairing a power playlist with your workout will make you feel pumped, ready to take on the world, and motivate you to do those extra ten burpees. If you haven't already jumped on the AirPods bandwagon, now might be the time to do so. The pro model features a customisable fit with interchangeable ear buds (so they're more comfortable than the original), and noise cancellation to get in the zone, Apple AirPods Pro [14] (£249), are the perfect accompaniment to an intense workout. The noise cancellation can also be turned off, allowing you to stay aware of your surroundings if you're out running or cycling instead.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11
Put your best foot forward with the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11 [15] (£135) – a trainer so good that the brand has made it eleven times. The light and airy running shoe has a snug and supportive fit that's great for the long run (excuse the pun). Not just good for running, it's also ideal for training in the gym, whether you're sweating it out on the treadmill, spin bike, or HIIT class.
Lululemon All Yours Tee
The Lululemon All Yours Tee [16] (£55), which is part of the brand's limited edition Earth Dye Collection, is possibly the comfiest t-shirt we've ever worn — you'll want to work out in it and lounge around in it all day (not right after getting sweaty in it, obviously). The range — which also includes joggers, shorts, a tank, and a sweatshirt — is made using lower-impact dyes that are upcycled from plant waste of oranges, beets, and saw palmetto trees sourced from the agricultural and herbal industries. All pieces are available in two tie-dye shades: stone grey and clay.
Wuka Seamless Leakproof Period Pants
Working out while PMS'ing can be uncomfortable, and Wuka's here to fix that. Designed for anyone who menstruates and lives an active lifestyle, the brand's Seamless Leakproof Period Pants [17] (£20 and up) are the solution to working out comfortably and confidently, without the dreaded "VPL". Plus a portion of the profits from every pair sold is donated to one of the brand's charity partners, Surfers Against Sewage.
Maison Lejaby Inspire Collection
French lingerie artisans Maison Lejaby's latest active collection, Lejaby Inspire, is all about being kind to yourself (they're incredibly comfortable) and kind to the planet. The line uses eco-conscious OEKO-TEX certified raw materials such as recycled yarns and vegetable fibres to create a super soft material that feels feather-light on the skin for seamless movement with every stretch, step, and squat. We have our eyes on the Maison Lejaby Seamless Softy Leggings [18] (£60).
Jojo Maman Bébé Black Maternity Activewear Reflective Leggings
For any mamas-to-be out there, the Jojo Maman Bébé Black Maternity Activewear Reflective Leggings [19] (£35) are super stretchy and supportive leggings that will keep your bump comfortable while you stay active. The lightweight, quick-dry fabric is breathable and keeps you cool, and its reflective strip detail keeps you visible when training outdoors.
Buff CoolNet UV+ Tubular
If you're not keen on the idea of wearing a face mask in the gym, try the Buff CoolNet UV+ Tubular [20] (£16), which is a nice alternative. Made from 95% recycled material, this lightweight and versatile accessory has UPF 50 protection, making it a plus for outdoor sports. Or, if you choose to wear it as a face mask or headband, its moisture wicking properties pull sweat away from your skin and into the cooling fabric so you can stay cool, light, and comfortable.
Contur
If you've watched Seaspiracy on Netflix, then you'll know how detrimental the discarding of old fishing nets and plastic into our ocean is, destroying our marine life and the ecosystem along the way. You'll be pleased to hear that London-based Contur repurposes old fishing nets and ocean plastics to bring you high-performance activewear made with ECONYL fabric that also conforms to the body shape for comfortable and squat-proof workouts. We're absolutely obsessed with the brand's Contur Smooth Move Leggings [21] (£59).
Adidas Ultraboost 21
Need a boost? Meet Adidas' latest running shoe – the Adidas Ultraboost 21 [22] (£160). If you're an outdoor runner who's concerned about joint health due to the impact of running on uneven surfaces, this is a great option. The new-and-improved shoe features maximum support and enhanced movement; plus, it's made with recycled material made up of at least 50% Parley Ocean Plastic (a material created from upcycled plastic waste that was intercepted from beaches and coastal communities before reaching the ocean, according to Adidas).
Kami Beluga Mesh Leggings
If you're shopping solely for eco-friendly activewear, check out Kami Activewear, which is made sustainably at every stage of the supply chain — from the material through to the packaging and manufacturing. The fabrics are made of recycled waste materials that would otherwise end up in landfill, while the orders are wrapped in biodegradable garment bags that dissolve in hot water and mailed to you in bags made from potato starch. Plus, with every purchase they donate a percentage of each sale to the Marine Conservation Society. We can wait to slip on the Kami Beluga Mesh Leggings [23] (£85), which are currently available for pre-order.
Pressio 7/8 High Rise Compression Tights
This one's for the serious athletes and gym bunnies out there. Founded by Jamie Hunt, professional triathlete and cofounder of technical apparel company 2XU, Pressio was made to seriously enhance exercise and recovery. As one of the most creative sports textile engineers in the industry, you can expect high performance gear in Hunt's newly developed Compression Equilibrium range. The Pressio 7/8 High Rise Compression Tights [24] (£80), has incredibly durable, no-sheer material that sits comfortably on the skin and wicks away moisture and sweat, while holding muscles in place to prevent injuries from high-impact training. The unique material improves blood-flow and lymphatic drainage, removing toxins and speeding up muscular recovery, too.
Gymshark Power Loose Shorts
Fitness powerhouse Gymshark has it all with staple pieces to fill out your gym kit – from heavy support sports bras and functional crop tops, to loungewear pieces and seamless leggings. Get ready to lift with Gymshark's Power Loose Shorts [25] (£30), which provide full freedom and security to move with the tight under-short that's super stretchy and comfortable.