The pandemic has polarized many people’s views on exercise and movement. Some have watched it dwindle on their list of priorities, while others (myself included) have utilized movement as a technique to stay sane despite tumultuous world events. Luckily, the proliferation of the athleisure fad means you don’t even have to work out to dress as if you do. Even better yet, new activewear designers have shaken up the norms of the industry, creating pieces that are actually desirable to wear—regardless of where you’re headed. From sweat shorts to sneakers to sports bras, we’re rounding up our staffers’ favorite athletic gear to carry you from to the couch to the yoga mat to the great outdoors.
Jessica Teves, Head of Content
Asics Gel-Nimbus 22
Be good to your feet, y’all! Between tennis, walking, running, chasing after a three-year-old, and more, my feet take quite the beating. These Asics sneakers are absolutely amazing for supporting my semi-low arch and providing just enough cushion to make me feel like I’m walking on a cushion of air.
BuyPangaia Heavyweight Recycled Cotton Track Pants
$120These recycled track pants from Pangaia are perfection—they’re just heavy enough to make you feel cozy and protected in the winter, but not too thick that you overheat. Bonus: The brand uses environmentally friendly dyes and recycled cotton, so you can feel good knowing what you’re wearing is responsibly sourced.
BuySkims Fits Everybody Scoop Neck Bra
$32I’ve pretty much been living in this scoop-neck bra from Skims—the cut is practically invisible under any piece of clothing, and I barely feel like I’m wearing anything. Pro tip: I sized down so it was a little more supportive, but cannot recommend enough for someone just lounging or doing a light workout.
BuyCaroline Dunn, Affiliate Coordinator
Bandier The Zip Up Kit
$195My swimsuit collection is composed almost entirely of Solid & Striped suits, so I was thrilled when the brand announced its activewear collaboration with Bandier. I find the promise of a cute and coordinated workout set to be a huge motivator, and this one is perfect for at-home workouts, now and (hopefully) in-studio classes later.
BuyOutdoor Voices The Exercise Dress
$100After being on the receiving end of what felt like thousands of targeted Instagram ads for the Outdoor Voices Exercise Dress, I finally caved and never looked back. This dress was basically my second skin throughout all the warm months, and I recently brought it back and started layering it with chunky cardigans. The only thing difficult about this supereasy slip-on dress is picking a color.
BuyExperia Light Cushion Low Cut Socks
$15These socks have been my tried-and-true ever since discovering them during my high-school cross country years over a decade ago. They basically last forever and will protect your feet in all the necessary places, so you can work out as much as you want and still actively participate in the upcoming sandal season.
BuyRachel Pickus, Creative Associate
Girlfriend Collective Bianca Bra
$38There’s nothing better than workout gear that doubles as chic normal wear! I envision this bra to be equally supportive during my favorite yoga class as it would be cute enough to wear in the summer with my cutoff Levi’s.
BuySet Active Spritz Sweatshorts
$65On days when I’m less inclined to sport a pair of ultra-tight leggings, I opt for sweatshorts. They’re comfortable, breezy, and just the right amount of warmth to get me through my morning yoga session.
BuyHoka One One Clifton 7 Sneaker
$130I’m absolutely obsessed with these sneakers! Whether I’m feeling a light jog outside (very rarely) or running from bodega to bodega in search of my favorite cold brew (most likely), I lace these up for maximum comfort.
BuyLeya Kaufman, Head of Sales
Free People Seamless Rib Bike Short
$20I’m almost 30 weeks pregnant, and I’ve never been more in love with a pair of bike shorts. These seamless spandex shorts have a new permanent place in my prenatal virtual sculpt classes. I also have zero intention of giving this comfortable collection up post-pregnancy—so I now own them in almost every single color.
BuyVarley Barton Sweatshirt
$99While I can only really get away with layers for the first few minutes of my workout, this is the chicest way that I’ve ever warmed up. I can throw this on for the start of any Peloton workout to own my at-home gym look––but I also rock this sweatshirt on those lazy days when I’m 10 times closer to the couch than I am to the spin bike.
BuyElectric & Rose Sunset Legging
$98It’s legitimately possible that these are magical leggings. They’re the most flattering pants I’ve ever owned, which make them a go-to for any workout that might require a second glance in the mirror to double-check my form. If I could, I’d probably live in them.
BuyCamille Freestone, Writer
Live the Process Ballet Top
$118Though I don’t do much of it anymore, I spent about multiple hours a week for the better part of my childhood in a ballet studio. This wrap top offers me a quick dose of nostalgia every time I select it for a virtual class.
BuyOfffield Movement Made Happy Long-sleeve Shirt
$45Running will always be one of my favorite workouts because it’s efficient in terms of time and calorie burn, but also in material requirements—very little stuff needed. On warmer days, I’ve been running in Central Park in this long-sleeve t-shirt, and it’s the perfect weight once you get your heart rate up.
BuyNorba Velour Stirrup Legging
$130I love when I can sneak an item I’ve been loving in a fashion context into my activewear collection. Stirrup leggings are a mainstay in my WFH wardrobe, so I was so excited to discover a pair that I could work out in, as well.
Buy
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