10 Best Size-Conscious Workout Clothing For All Bodies
Whether online or in a store, size-conscious workout clothing can be hard to find. Where do you start? Do you really need workout clothes? What size should you get? Will it fit?
There are so many questions and options. In this choice-obsessed society that we live in, it’s often easier just to slip into a baggy pair of sweats and call it a day. Getting the right gear is about more than just feeling comfortable. Clothing catastrophes, like chaffing or unsupported, bouncing body parts are sometimes the only excuse you need to delay or even end your fitness journey. Investing in activewear that looks great and makes you feel amazing is just the right kind of inspiration and motivation you need to hit the gym.
Our team at 8fit is always on the lookout for ways to minimize obstacles standing in the way of your success. We’ve scoured the Internet on a hunt for the best of fashion and functionality.
What to consider when looking for body-conscious workout clothing
When you’re committed to your fitness goals, mindset is everything. What better way to set the stage than to look and feel fabulous in your workout gear?
Improvements in fabric, also known as textile technologies, have influenced recent fitness trends. Size-conscious workout clothing uses these technologies to help you look and feel great. It may sound odd, but clothing technology can level up your workout experience. Because this is another area where choices are abundant, it’s helpful to limit our consideration to just two key features: airflow and flexibility. It may sound simple, but the technologies are actually complex.
Moisture-wicking fabric
Fabrics that offer moisture-wicking technologies are a must-have for comfort. There’s nothing better than working up a sweat while exercising. It’s a reminder of the effort you’re putting in and a sign that positive change is on the horizon.
But when that sweat gets in the way of your training, it can lead to discomfort and affect your game. Moisture-wicking fabrics help keep you cool during your workout by keeping you dry when you sweat. The fabric allows your sweat to flow out and air to flow into your body. The best feature of this type of textile is that it requires less water and detergent to clean.
When you’re trying to figure out what to wear when you work out, flexibility and comfort are king.
Compression gear
A crucial element of workout preparation is finding gear that fits, supports your body, and moves comfortably throughout your range of functional motion. Compression garments support your muscles and can include moisture-wicking and antimicrobial properties. Compression fabric is designed to promote blood flow and help improve the oxygenation of muscle tissue, which enhances athletic performance. Compression gear can help with injury prevention and pain during workouts, as well as aid in recovery.
Four-way stretch
High-quality stretch fabrics that combine nylon and Lycra provide first-rate support. When considering stretch activewear, look for four-way stretch technology. “Four-way stretch” simply means that the fabric stretches in a crosswise and lengthwise direction. This allows the fabric to support your joints as they move and bend throughout the training session.
Now that you know what to look for, we can talk about what that means in the real world. Get ready, get set, SHOP!
The 10 Best Size-Conscious Workout Clothing Brands for Men and Women
The criteria we used in selecting brands focused on fashion, functionality, and an understanding of size-conscious workout clothing. We have included brands that celebrate bodies of all shapes and sizes. We have also included activewear-makers at various price points. These garments may be just the motivation you need to get or keep you on track with your workout goals.
Women’s Guide
Athleta is a premium fitness and lifestyle brand owned by Gap. Its collections integrate the features we talked about earlier in this article to support women of all sizes. If you love living in yoga pants, you’ll love their athleisure line. Available in sizes up to 2X.
C9 by Champion is an exclusive brand for Target. Their sports bras are both supportive and comfortable, with features such as venting and compression. Available in sizes from 38C to 42DDD, depending on the style you select.
Fabletics is a subscription-based online retailer by Kate Hudson. It offers fashionable fitness apparel in attractive styles that are sure to make you feel sexy. You can find a wide selection of apparel in sizes up to 3X.
Girlfriend Collective lives by ethical manufacturing when producing their activewear, supporting various shapes and sizes.
Zella by Nordstrom activewear collection offers plus-size workout apparel and combines performance technology with comfort and style. Its mission is to help women improve their workouts and feel good. Available in sizes up to 3X.
Men’s Guide
Champion is a Hanesbrands company found online and in retailers like Kohls, Target, and Walmart. Champion’s performance activewear for men includes features like moisture control, comfort, and style. Available in sizes up to 3XL.
Organic Basics features activewear that's ethically produced and is made with technology that keeps your clothes smelling fresh so you can spend less time doing laundry.
Under Armour offers high-tech fitness apparel with features like HeatGear compression, 30+ UPF skin protection, and four-way stretch technology. Their flatlock seams protect against chafing during your training session. Available in sizes up to 5XL.
Nike training and gym clothing offers several textile technologies, including moisture-wicking and lightweight fabrics. Available in sizes up to 2XL.
Reebok offers high-quality footwear and apparel to fit your active lifestyle. Whether you are running marathons, training at the gym, or practicing CrossFit, Reebok is designed to endure vigorous training techniques. Available in sizes up to 3XL.
When you head back out to the gym in the new year, these size-conscious workout clothing brands are sure to make you look spectacular and feel great. The textile technologies offer comfort and functionality to help you achieve your workout goals. Happy shopping!
References
Information was collected on the individual brand websites as well as the resources listed below:
