We Tested the 29 Best Women’s Workout Apparel Items of 2026 So You Can Focus On Your Fitness Goals

Nothing spoils a workout like painful and distracting flopping, so I’ll never be opposed to investing in a great bra for high-impact activities. When I’m opting for running or full-power dance routines, I always choose the most supportive bra I own to prevent bouncing.

This sports bra is made from super-soft, breathable, four-way stretch fabric, with an extra-flattering fit — no worries about the dreaded “uniboob” with this bra.

“I have this in five colors, and I absolutely love it,” says editor Ashley Ziegler. “It’s my go-to everyday bra. I get bummed out when I have to wear a regular bra because I love this one so much.” Ziegler says it provides plenty of support for barre, Pilates, and yoga classes but won’t cut it for high-impact sports like running or soccer. (Pro tip: This bra made our list of the best sports bras.)

SHEFIT’s Ultimate Sports Bra should be on your shopping list if you’re a larger-chested woman seeking maximum support. Designed to provide strong compression, the zip front makes it easy to put on and take off, while the Velcro on the straps and band make it completely adjustable. The wire-free cups provide a natural shape without compromising support, and the padding in the cups is removable. Users love that it’s breathable, moisture-wicking, and doesn’t retain odors.

As much as we love this bra, our research found that some wearers experience issues with chafing, particularly during longer runs or workouts. Additionally, the sizing can be tricky, so consult the size guide carefully. Despite these concerns, many find this sports bra to be a game-changer in terms of support and adjustability, making it a worthy investment for those in need of a high-performance option.

The last thing anyone wants to do is stop mid-run (or mid Tree Pose) and fix underwear creep. These hipster briefs from Runderwear truly do not move. The brand makes running undergarments for men and women that are chafe-free, sweat-wicking, and supportive. There are no tags or raised seams that can rub while you’re exercising. Instead of itchy tags, the care instructions, sizing, and material info are printed on the inner waistband.

“The fabric is soft and feels like it will last a long time — not too lightweight and not too heavy,” says editor Lili Ladaga. “They did a great job of wicking sweat and drying quickly, which was much appreciated when I was outside in 80-degree heat.” They do fit small, so Ladaga recommends going up a size, and they’re currently only available in black or white.

Should you just wear that old T-shirt when hitting the gym? Probably not, according to Hislop. To stay dry and comfortable, you’ll want to wear breathable, moisture-wicking garments, like this top made of polyester and spandex. I’ve been working out for decades, and the Loovoo Workout Shirt has become my new personal favorite over the past six months. It’s thick, sturdy, and well-constructed, unlike many other flimsy workout shirts.

After many washes, the shirt still holds its shape. Yet it’s still lightweight and breathable enough to keep me cool during any workout and flexible enough to keep me moving freely. Another bonus is that it offers some light compression, holding me in and keeping me feeling supported as I move. I also love the variety of colors — I’ve bought several to coordinate with my leggings. Keep in mind that it does run a little small, and if you’re looking for a full-on compression shirt, this isn’t it.

If your workout space tends to get chilly, you may want to opt for a long-sleeved top. But again, breathability is key. This MathCat Seamless Workout Shirt fits the bill perfectly. It is supportive, compressive, and made of thick and stretchy nylon-elastane, and it’s kept me comfortable without causing me to overheat for the past six months. Like my favorite short-sleeve top, the stitching and design look well thought-out and executed, and I’ve had no issues with it losing shape or falling apart in the wash.

What really stands out, though, is the four-way-stretch design, which has given me ample ability to stretch, bounce, and twist unencumbered. I absolutely love the dozens of available colors, and the crew neck design looks classy and elegant. This top is a staple in my workout wear. But note that the sleeves are slightly long, and this top is best for cool environments.

If you’re looking for a regular T-shirt you can wear playing pickleball, running errands, hiking in the summer, or puttering in your garden, this is your shirt. It’s incredibly comfortable and feels lightweight, even though the fabric leans toward medium weight.

“I love wearing this shirt hiking,” says Ladaga. “It’s loose-fitting, breezy, and really wicks away sweat when the sun is beating down.” The brand’s Omni-Shade UPF 50 fabric protects from UVA/UVB rays and is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, so you can feel confident that you’re protecting your skin. (But even so, don’t forget to apply sunscreen!) It comes in a variety of muted colors in sizes XS to XXL.

While the idea of wearing a long-sleeve shirt on a sunny day may seem off-putting, the shirt’s Cooltect technology, which draws moisture away from the body, is effective at keeping you dry and cool on fishing trips, as well as when golfing, gardening, or hiking during the summer. The fabric is also antimicrobial. Another cool feature is the zippered pocket, where you can safely store a lip balm or earbuds.

Keep in mind, however, that our research found that this top runs a bit snug, and at over $50 it’s definitely an investment.

Whether you’re sweating through a heart-pumping dance class or releasing tension in a yoga flow, a lightweight, breathable tank is a must-have. Now that I’ve tested this attractive, comfy option, I know I’ll be buying more. Comfortable, cute, and practical, the CRZ YOGA Seamless Women’s Breathable Workout Tank Top mimics more expensive brands like Lululemon, but at a much more modest price — and it’s our pick for the best tank top.

Mesh vents on the back and armpit areas keep me cool during my sweatiest sessions, the racerback design allows for unrestricted movement, and the high neck and hip-length are very flattering. Unlike many low-cost workout tops, it’s form-fitting but not clingy, so I don’t have to worry about unsightly bulging. Keep in mind that this top does not feature a built-in bra like some competitors do. Also, I got it in white, and my black bra showed through a bit (though it’s barely noticeable).

Having worn this water- and windproof jacket for months, I believe you’d be hard-pressed to find another one that’s as functional, comfortable, and attractive. Lululemon’s Another Mile Jacket is surprisingly warm for how lightweight and sleek it is. The jacket’s insulation keeps my torso toasty, the thumb holes ensure I can keep my hands covered, and the removable hood blocks wind and rain.

It also has a stretchy nylon-Lycra fabric on the sides, so my movement isn’t restricted. And unlike so many bulky workout jackets, it’s form-fitting and attractive — I wear it out for an evening just as much as I wear it on my runs. Do note that the fit is a little tight across the chest: I wear a size 36C, and I had to size up. This made it slightly less slimming than my usual size. Also, the brand’s products aren’t widely available, so don’t expect to find this on Amazon.

When it’s hot and steamy outside, the last thing you want is to wear a lot of clothing. But if you’re going to be in the sun, you’ll need something lightweight that can protect you from UVA/UVB rays. This hoodie from Patagonia ticks all the boxes: It’s made from light material, provides UPF 40+ protection, and has a hood to protect the back of your neck and face.

It’s also versatile. You can wear it hiking, around town, or running. “The fabric is thin and comfortable and has a little stretch to it,” says writer Grace Gallagher. “I’ve worn this a lot. I wore it as a layer to a barre class and also just with jeans on a day when I wasn’t doing anything particularly active.”

It’s hard to find something to dislike about these comfy, wrinkle-resistant, quick-dry shorts, which I tested for a week. Mid-rise with a 2.5-inch inseam, they’re the perfect length — short enough to allow for unrestricted movement, but not so short that I worry about flashing passersby. These Athleta Speedwork Run Shorts also don’t ride up when I run.

Made from recycled polyester and spandex, they’re featherlight and breathable — perfect for keeping you cool, from gym seshes to HIIT circuits. An internal drawstring helps customize the fit, and I loved the hidden pocket on the back inner waistband. The shorts are flattering and come in a variety of pretty colors, including Mint Green and Mimosa Pink.

The Lululemon Align High-Rise Skirt is another item on my wish list — it’s a perfect example of versatile activewear that effortlessly transitions from workouts to weekend errands. Made from nylon, Lycra, and elastane, the skirt is soft, sweat-wicking, and breathable, while the cut and wide variety of colors available make it attractive enough for everyday wear.

Built-in shorts with pockets add both coverage and convenience, allowing you to move freely while keeping essentials like your phone or keys securely tucked away. In general, the design and length are flattering, though taller women may find the garment slightly on the short side.

The Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Tight is our pick for the best leggings because of its exceptional materials and design. It’s made from nylon Lycra fabric, which is comfy and stretchy but maintains its shape, leaving you feeling flexible and supported as you work out. It’s also fast-drying for when you break a sweat. “It was perfect for my heated power yoga class and a run on a sunny day — I never got uncomfortably hot or sweaty,” says writer Brittany Vargas. There’s also a hidden pocket that’s perfect for stowing small essentials.

Save these for warm-weather workouts; the thin fabric makes them less than ideal for hitting the pavement on cold days.

If you’re looking for an easy way to receive added benefits from your workouts, these leggings should be on your shopping list. They feature built-in resistance bands, which turn your everyday activities or exercises into mini muscle-training sessions.

Our tester, Mary Sauer, felt her workouts, including Pilates and walking, were more intense while wearing these leggings. She liked that the moisture-wicking fabric kept her dry and the availability of different numbers of bands. She did feel, however, that the waist area was a little tight and that the distribution of fabric between the bands was loose, creating uneven resistance.

Hitting the trail tops my list of favorite fitness activities, so I’m excited to snag these affordable REI Trailmade Pants on my next trip to REI. Made from lightweight, quick-dry nylon and spandex stretch fabric, I trust they’ll keep me comfy, cool, and protected from the elements. Since they’re water-repellent, I won’t worry about crossing a few streams when needed. And with a UPF 50+ rating, they offer ample sun protection. The pants also have four pockets and a sunglasses hook that can keep my important accessories handy.

In my research, I found that users have taken them on trips covering hundreds of miles, day hikes, and canoeing, often happily wearing them for multiple days. One said they dropped the contents of an entire water bottle on them, and they were dry within an hour. Just note that they may wrinkle, and just a few users experienced unraveling stitches after some time. Since the majority did not, I’ll take my chances.

For runners, Brooks running shoes are the bomb, especially the Adrenaline GTS 25. The brand’s innovative GuideRails support system allows for your natural gait while minimizing excessive sideways movement during activities like walking and running. They also feature additional cushioning and a higher stack height for added comfort while you’re pounding the pavement. It comes in four widths (narrow, medium, wide, and extra-wide) and extended sizing, so you’re sure to find a fit that works for your feet.

The GTS 25s are on several of our “Best of” lists, including Best Running Shoes, Best Shoes for Heel Pain, Best for Ankle Support, and Best Walking Shoes.

The Hoka Bondi 9’s are super plush and highly cushioned, creating a dreamy experience for your tired feet. Sauer noted a “cloud-like feel with each step” thanks to the thick midsole and impact-absorbing construction. The toe box is exceptionally roomy, so your feet can spread to their heart’s delight.

The sole features a layer of rubberized foam that allows it to compress and bounce back with each stride. It adds about 1 inch to your height, which might take a little time to get used to. “Even though the intense sole was a weird adjustment, I ultimately think it provides a lot of shock protection,” says Sauer. The Bondi 9’s are available in regular and wide widths and in an array of fun, bright color combinations.

The Brooks Ghost Max 3 shoes consistently receive rave reviews for their comfort and stability, which are super important when hitting the gym. The foam cushioning gives a soft yet responsive feel that absorbs impact effectively. In fact, our tester, Lindsay Modglin, says she felt like she was walking on a cloud when wearing these sneakers.

The shoe’s GlideRoll Rocker design helps make it easier for your feet to roll forward and back, helping to take pressure off the ankle joint. And the mesh upper should keep you feeling cool when you’re getting your steps in on the elliptical.

Hislop says that lateral support is important when hopping on machines or doing cardio. The shoes’ raised side walls and broad base offer that structure, helping keep the foot securely in place. That said, we’d prefer a shoe with less bulk for activities like HIIT, which can require agility and explosive movements.

Almost from the moment I slipped on this plush pair of walking shoes, I sensed I would enjoy many miles in them. The Ryka Devotion X Walking Shoes were comfortable from the first wear and have become my favorite pair of shoes over the past six months. What makes them so good? The generous sole includes multiple layers of cushioning, especially at the heel and forefoot, as well as compression channels for shock absorption, and extra arch and heel support.

These features have enabled me to enjoy the benefits of walking across concrete, sand, and trails in comfort. The flexible upper means my feet have room to stretch and never feel cramped. And they’re designed for women’s feet with a narrow heel, which I have always had trouble finding. Bonus: They’re cute enough to be a part of many athleisure looks.

Calling all Pickleheads: Your ideal shoe is here. These pickleball shoes from Skechers are comfortable and stable, perfect for quick moves on the court. “I was able to wear them right out of the box, and they were comfortable enough for me to play an hour and a half of pickleball with no blisters,” says writer Kimberly Dawn Neumann. “You need a stable court shoe for all the lateral motion in pickleball, and this gives you stability along with comfort. Great combo!”

These court shoes feature a breathable mesh upper, roomy toe box, Skechers Arch Fit EVA insole, and a rubber toe guard. The outsole also includes Goodyear rubber for traction. “These Skechers are now going to be my go-to court shoe for pickleball,” says Neumann. “I was running all over the court, and I never slipped once. I had great agility in these shoes.”

These budget socks from Hanes have a lot going for them: built-in ventilation, arch support, a seamless toe, and medium-level cushioning. They’re made of 80 percent cotton as well as polyester, nylon, and spandex for a bit of stretch.

“I personally liked the snug fit around my arch and the supportive underfoot cushion,” says writer Marisa Olsen. The interior heel grips keep the socks in place and prevent chafing and blisters, while mesh strips at the top of the sock keep your foot ventilated. They come in a convenient four-pack, so you’ll always have a pair ready to go.

These compression socks are supportive, yet breathable and stretchy, perfect for exercise and nonexercise activities alike. “I’ll most definitely be wearing these socks often,” says writer Jacquelyn Smith. “They’re great to wear with my tennis shoes and flare jeans; super comfy and lots of support. The quality, durability, and construction are phenomenal on these socks.”

The moisture-wicking performance nylon ensures your feet stay dry, and the mesh upper allows for maximum breathability. In addition to all-over compression, there’s also extra support around the arch.

Designed for runners and high-performance athletes, these socks have cushioning that’s comforting and impressive. “They’re really plush, and I actually feel comfortable not wearing slippers at home (a huge deal, because I have plantar fasciitis),” says writer Katrina Cossey.

These socks are made from a yarn blend that mitigates sweat while keeping feet dry. “They’ve seen miles already,” Cossey says. “Despite the thick cushioning, my feet do not sweat or overheat.” Front and back heel tabs help prevent chafing and blisters, and there’s cushioning in the heel and toes that contour to your foot shape. Even more cushioning at the big toe adds plushness to a high-impact zone.

After a week of testing, this adorable Lululemon Fast and Free Running Hat has already earned its place in my “cute clothes that inspire me to work out” repertoire. But beyond aesthetics, I love that it’s a hat that actually stays in place when I run — no more chasing down runaway caps on windy days.

It’s adjustable and made from lightweight, four-way-stretch fabric, so it essentially molds to my head. The long bill protects my face from the sun, while the lightweight, breathable fabric, mesh inner, and sweatband keep me cool and dry. All in all, this is a hat worth indulging in, but note that it’s a little pricey compared to competitors. You’ll also need to buy it directly from a Lululemon store or their website.

The Nathan Peak Hydration water bottle waist pack might be the perfect solution for the “how do I carry all my stuff while I exercise” dilemma. Hikers, cyclists, and runners alike will appreciate the hands-free design and the angled bottle holder that makes it easy to reach down and grab your water bottle. Even better: The holder is insulated, so your water will stay cold even as you heat up. We only wish the pockets were a little bigger.

These H2O Tri 2 Multi-Sport Bone Conduction headphones are perfect for listening to music or audiobooks while you’re exercising. It means you won’t have to deal with ear pods falling out or getting lost.

Instead of fitting over your head and ears, the headset wraps around the back of your head and hooks over your ears. These next-level headphones use bone conduction technology to provide high-quality audio, so the open-ear design means you can listen to music but still be aware of your surroundings.

They’re fully waterproof, so you can use them while swimming. They have a battery life of six to nine hours, plus they can hold up to 2,000 songs, so you’ll never run out of tunes for jamming.