Workout Clothes Not Leggings

Your workout can feel amazing or just like a major waste of time, and what you wear can make all the difference. It’s important to find an outfit that supports your muscles, protects you from chafing and rashes, helps your body regulate temperature, and—of course—wicks away sweat so you can feel as good as possible afterward. That’s why Glamour talked to dozens of trainers to get their recommendations on the best workout clothes not leggings. They suggest looking for fabrics that wick moisture away from the skin, offer stretch to allow for a full range of motion, and have flat seams to prevent chafing. They also recommend styles with smart design features (hidden pockets, drawcords) and compression to support your muscles.

Most of the trainers we spoke to favored quick-drying, breathable, and synthetic fabrics such as polyester and nylon for high-impact, sweat-wicking workouts. Some praised the added benefits of natural fibers such as cotton and bamboo, which can reduce odor and add warmth, especially in cold-weather workouts. And they recommended avoiding any fabric that contains PFAS, which have been linked to health issues including reproductive disorders and lowered immune function.

The one exception to synthetic fabrics is merino wool, which is naturally anti-odor and wicks moisture away from the skin. It’s also a great temperature regulator and offers the most heat protection in cold-weather workouts. It’s often blended with other materials to create versatile pieces, such as the joggers below, which are made with merino wool and elastane.

Another option is organic cotton, which is grown without chemical pesticides and fertilizers and produced using only sustainable water and energy. This makes it more durable than conventional cotton and helps prevent shrinking, stretching, and color fading. This is the fabric that Fabletics uses for its workout leggings, which are breathable and lightweight enough for summer but warm and cozy for winter. The high-waisted compression leggings are made with 88 percent organic cotton and 12 percent spandex, so they’re thick enough for high-impact exercises but will move with your body.

Whether you want to buy fitness gear from an established athleticwear brand or prefer to keep things local, there’s something on this list for everyone. We’ve included big-name brands like Nike, Adidas, and Lululemon; buzzier labels like Girlfriend Collective, Outdoor Voices, and Alo Yoga; and smaller boutiques like Janji and Mate. We also looked for options in a range of price points, from budget-friendly to high-end.