Athleisure wear, a trend that combines the comfort of athletic clothing with the style and versatility of everyday fashion, has taken the world by storm. From workout leggings to trendy sneakers, athleisure brands have become a staple in everyone’s wardrobe. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to find the best athleisure brands for your specific needs.
That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate guide to the best athleisure brands. We’ve done the research and tried out multiple brands to bring you the top picks for comfort, style, and functionality. So whether you’re hitting the gym, running errands, or just lounging at home, these brands will have you looking and feeling your best.
1. Lululemon
Lululemon is often considered the OG of athleisure brands. Founded in 1998, this Canadian company quickly gained a cult following for its high-quality, stylish workout gear. Their signature fabric, called “Luon,” is known for its sweat-wicking and four-way stretch properties, making it perfect for any type of workout.
Lululemon Must-Haves
- Align Leggings: These buttery-soft leggings are a fan-favorite for their comfortable fit and flattering silhouette.
- Swiftly Tech Long Sleeve Crew: This lightweight long-sleeve top is perfect for layering and features moisture-wicking technology to keep you cool and dry.
- Free To Be Serene Bra: With a strappy back design, this sports bra offers both support and style.
How to Use Lululemon
Lululemon’s versatile pieces are perfect for both working out and everyday wear. Pair their leggings with a cute crop top for a casual look, or dress them up with a flowy blouse and heels. Their tops and jackets also make great layering pieces for any outfit.
# Examples of Lululemon
- Instagram influencer @taramilktea rocking the Align Leggings and Swiftly Tech Long Sleeve Crew during a yoga session.
- Actress and singer Selena Gomez wearing the Free To Be Serene Bra with high-waisted jeans for a chic athleisure look.
## Lululemon vs. Other Brands
Lululemon may be on the pricier side, but their quality and attention to detail set them apart from other brands. They also offer a variety of sizes, including plus sizes, and have a strong focus on sustainability through initiatives such as their “Lululemon Like New” program.
## Lululemon Tips and Advice
- Don’t be afraid to try different styles and sizes – some people prefer a tighter fit while others prefer more room.
- Take advantage of their free hemming services to get the perfect length for your leggings.
- Check out their “We Made Too Much” section for discounted items.
2. Nike
Known for their iconic “swoosh” logo, Nike is a powerhouse in the athletic wear industry. Founded in 1964, this brand has been a go-to for both professional athletes and everyday fitness enthusiasts alike. Their apparel and footwear are designed with performance in mind, making them a top choice for intense workouts.
Nike Must-Haves
- Nike Pro Leggings: These compression leggings provide support and coverage while still allowing for a full range of motion.
- Dri-FIT Training Tank: This lightweight tank features moisture-wicking technology to keep you cool and dry during any workout.
- Air Zoom Pegasus 38 Running Shoes: With cushioned foam and responsive Zoom Air units, these shoes provide a comfortable and springy ride during runs.
How to Use Nike
Nike’s athletic wear is perfect for high-intensity workouts such as running, HIIT, and weightlifting. Their apparel is designed to move with your body and keep you cool and dry, while their footwear offers support and cushioning for long runs or training sessions.
# Examples of Nike
- Professional tennis player Serena Williams wearing the Dri-FIT Training Tank and Nike Pro Leggings during a training session.
- Actor and fitness enthusiast Zac Efron sporting the Air Zoom Pegasus 38 Running Shoes during a morning run.
## Nike vs. Other Brands
Nike may have a more athletic focus compared to other athleisure brands, but they still offer stylish and functional pieces. Their wide range of sizes, including plus sizes, caters to all body types and their collaborations with fashion designers such as Virgil Abloh make them a top choice for both fitness and fashion.
## Nike Tips and Advice
- Make use of their Nike By You program to customize your own shoes.
- Check out their sale section for discounted items.
- When buying online, read reviews and check the size chart for the best fit.
3. Gymshark
Founded in 2012 by a group of college students, Gymshark has quickly become a favorite among fitness influencers and gym-goers. This UK-based brand focuses on creating stylish and functional workout gear at an affordable price point. Their signature “seamless” leggings have gained a loyal following for their flattering fit and squat-proof fabric.
Gymshark Must-Haves
- Energy Seamless Leggings: These high-waisted leggings feature a ribbed waistband and contouring details for a sculpted look.
- Vital Seamless Long Sleeve Crop Top: This cropped top is perfect for showing off those hard-earned abs and features a seamless knit for ultimate comfort.
- Adapt Marl Sports Bra: With a strappy back design and medium support, this sports bra is both stylish and functional.
How to Use Gymshark
Gymshark’s sleek and stylish pieces are perfect for any type of workout. Their seamless leggings offer a comfortable and flattering fit, while their tops and sports bras can be dressed up or down for a casual athleisure look.
# Examples of Gymshark
- Fitness influencer and entrepreneur Whitney Simmons sporting the Energy Seamless Leggings with the Adapt Marl Sports Bra during a workout.
- Youtuber and gym enthusiast Chloe Ting wearing the Vital Seamless Long Sleeve Crop Top on a hike.
## Gymshark vs. Other Brands
Gymshark’s affordable prices make them stand out from other high-end athleisure brands. However, some customers have reported issues with quality and sizing. They also have a limited range of sizes, with some styles only going up to an XL.
## Gymshark Tips and Advice
- Read reviews before purchasing to get an idea of sizing and quality.
- Check out Gymshark’s collaborations with fitness influencers for unique and limited-edition pieces.
- Look for discount codes online before placing your order.
4. Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices is a relatively new player in the athleisure game, but they have quickly made a name for themselves with their sustainable and inclusive approach to athletic wear. Founded in 2013, this brand focuses on creating versatile and functional pieces that can be worn for both athletic activities and everyday wear.
Outdoor Voices Must-Haves
- Tech Sweat 7/8 Zoom Leggings: These lightweight, sweat-wicking leggings feature a high waist and side pockets for convenience.
- Doing Things Bra: With a simple and supportive design, this sports bra is perfect for low-intensity workouts or everyday wear.
- CloudKnit Hoodie: Made from soft and cozy fabric, this hoodie is perfect for lounging or running errands.
How to Use Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices’ versatile and sustainable pieces are perfect for everyday wear, whether you’re lounging at home or running errands. Their leggings and sports bras can also be used for low-intensity workouts such as yoga or Pilates.
# Examples of Outdoor Voices
- Model and actress Emily Ratajkowski wearing the Doing Things Bra and Tech Sweat 7/8 Zoom Leggings while hiking.
- Youtuber and fitness enthusiast Natacha Oceane sporting the CloudKnit Hoodie during a workout.
## Outdoor Voices vs. Other Brands
Outdoor Voices stands out for their sustainable and inclusive approach to athleisure wear. They offer a wide range of sizes, including plus sizes, and have a strong focus on sustainability through initiatives such as their “Recycled Plastic” collection. However, their prices may be higher compared to other brands.
## Outdoor Voices Tips and Advice
- Check out their “OV Extra” program for exclusive perks and discounts.
- Take advantage of their free hemming services to get the perfect length for your leggings.
- Sign up for their newsletter to stay updated on new releases and sales.
5. Aerie
Aerie, the lingerie brand owned by American Eagle, may not be the first brand that comes to mind when thinking about athleisure wear. But their Aerie Active line offers comfortable and functional pieces at an affordable price point. Plus, they have a wide range of sizes, including extended sizes, making them a top choice for inclusivity.
Aerie Must-Haves
- OFFLINE Real Me High Waisted Crossover Leggings: These buttery-soft leggings feature a flattering crossover waistband and come in a variety of colors and prints.
- OFFLINE City Sweatshirt: Made from soft and cozy fleece, this sweatshirt is perfect for lounging or throwing on after a workout.
- Play High Neck Sports Bra: With medium support and a stylish high neck design, this sports bra is both comfortable and functional.
How to Use Aerie
Aerie’s affordable and inclusive athleisure wear is perfect for everyday wear. Their leggings and sports bras offer comfort and support, while their sweatshirts and hoodies are great for lounging or throwing on after a workout.
# Examples of Aerie
- Actress and singer Lucy Hale wearing the OFFLINE Real Me High Waisted Crossover Leggings and Play High Neck Sports Bra during a workout.
- Model and body positivity activist Iskra Lawrence rocking the OFFLINE City Sweatshirt with jeans for a casual look.
## Aerie vs. Other Brands
Compared to other athleisure brands, Aerie may have a more limited selection and focus on comfort rather than performance. However, their affordability and inclusive sizing make them a top choice for everyday wear.
## Aerie Tips and Advice
- Check out their “Last Chance” section for discounted items.
- Sign up for their AEO Connected program to earn rewards and discounts.
- Take advantage of their buy one, get one 50% off deal when purchasing two pairs of leggings.
FAQs
Q: Are these brands worth the hype?
A: Absolutely! These brands have been tried and tested by us and many others, and they continue to deliver high-quality and stylish athleisure wear.
Q: Are these brands sustainable?
A: Lululemon, Gymshark, and Outdoor Voices have strong sustainability initiatives in place, while Nike and Aerie are taking steps towards a more sustainable future.
Q: Do these brands offer plus sizes?
A: Yes, all of these brands offer a range of sizes, including extended sizes, making them inclusive for all body types.
Q: Can I wear these brands for everyday wear?
A: Yes! Athleisure wear is meant to be versatile, so you can wear these pieces for both working out and everyday wear.
Q: Are these brands affordable?
A: While some of these brands may be on the pricier side, they often offer sales and discounts. Plus, investing in high-quality athleisure wear can save you money in the long run.
Conclusion
Athleisure wear combines comfort and style for the ultimate everyday look. With the rise of this trend, there are endless options out there. But with our guide to the best athleisure brands, we hope we’ve made your decision a little easier.
From Lululemon’s high-quality fabrics to Aerie’s inclusive sizing, these brands have something for everyone. So whether you’re hitting the gym or just lounging at home, these athleisure brands will have you looking and feeling your best.
