Once upon a time, workout clothes men consisted of a few stained vest singlets and a pair of sweatpants that you only wore to the gym (or down the pub). Then along came modern performance activewear that’s designed for a multitude of different exercises and can stand up to heavy wear. In short, the best workout clothes for men are sweat-wicking, hard-working and aerodynamic, and pretty darn comfortable to wear at the same time.
But what’s more important than the design and construction of these pieces of men’s gym apparel is how they perform. That’s why, for this workout gear guide, we’ve gone out of our way to test men’s workout clothing that you can depend on for a great workout every time. Our picks for the best workout clothes for men come from a variety of renowned brands that specialize in gym activewear, so you can trust that they’re going to get the job done.
A core style from one of the fastest-growing gym apparel labels, Gymshark’s Crest tee is ideal for anyone who’s a fan of lifting. Made from recycled polyester with a wicking finish, this top keeps you cool and comfortable while you’re pushing, pulling, or swinging away in the weights room.
This brand is known for its high-quality, well-fitting gym apparel that’s built to last. Its range includes a plethora of sweatpants, tights, and tops. But it’s the men’s training jacket that really sets it apart. The nylon shell is water-resistant and breathable, and it’s equipped with two side pockets to keep your keys and ID handy when you’re out for a run. There’s even a hood in the mix to help keep you warm while you’re in between bursts of exercise.
These workout shorts are ideal for anyone who likes to mix up their routines — they’re perfectly suited for hitting the gym, but can also be worn while you’re hiking, climbing, or doing a long bike ride. They’re loaded with features, including a 6-inch Swift Lined fit for added comfort and a Gold Fusion anti-odour technology that’ll keep them fresh as you smash through reps.
When you’re looking to ratchet up the intensity of your workout, a weighted vest can give you that extra boost in strength and endurance. But they’re not exactly the easiest thing to wear and move around in. That’s why Omorpho has combined the concept of a weighted vest with workout clothing, so you can build your strength and endurance while you’re working out. It’s a simple idea that works extremely well and can make a big difference in your workouts.
A former Outside gear editor, Jakob Schiller has tested more than 300 workout products in his lifetime. As a runner, hiker, cyclist, and CrossFitter, he’s always on the lookout for the latest gear to elevate his workouts. His recommendations are based on firsthand experience, serious sweating, and lots of trial runs and gym sessions.