We Tested Almost Everything From Athleta’s Brand New Advantage Collection

As the weather warms, it’s finally time for outdoor sports like tennis, pickleball, and golf. And what better way to prepare for the spring season than by revamping your activewear collection? Whether it’s a fun exercise dress, pleated skort, or protective visor, now's the time to try something new. 

Athleta is one of our favorite places to buy athleisure, so we were thrilled to try out a few pieces from the brand's new Advantage Collection—a line that takes tennis gear to the next level. Two of our fitness editors decided to put the pieces to the test, both on and off the tennis court.

Sarah: I’m 5 feet, 5 inches tall and a 34F bra size. I’m usually a Small or Medium (size 4 to 6) in most activewear. 

Michelle: I’m 5 feet, 8 inches tall and a 32B bra size. I typically wear an XS (size 0 to 2) in activewear. 

Advantage Dress

Advantage Dress, $139 at athleta.com 

Sarah: Size XS

This is, hands-down, my favorite piece from the entire collection! It might be the most comfortable dress I’ve ever owned. I was beyond impressed that I didn’t have to adjust it once during a one-hour tennis lesson. The built-in shorts with a pocket are a game changer (and if you have thick thighs, rest easy—they won’t ride up, ever). 

I’m between sizes: I have both the XS and the Small, and although I prefer the way the XS fits, I could wear either. I love the black as a solid basic, but the Deep Ocean Teal is a stunning shade of green that always gets me a few compliments whenever I wear it. It’s so different from other pieces I own, and I know I’ll be living in it all summer long! 

Michelle: Size XS 

I agree with Sarah—this is by far my favorite piece from the entire Advantage collection! It’s functional and flattering enough to wear on and off the court. I love the thoughtful design elements, like the mesh backing for breathability, the built-in shorts that have grippers to prevent them from riding up, and pockets to store your tennis balls during a rally. 

I’m no tennis pro, but as the weather warms up, I plan to practice my game in style—thanks to this dress (and the entire collection)! Functionality meets style with its classic racerback, front zipper closure, adorable pleated skirt, and gorgeous Deep Ocean Teal color. I wear a size XS in this dress, and while it fits great, I would size down for a more compressive fit if I were to purchase it in another color. 

Advantage Skort

Advantage Skort, $89 at athleta.com

Sarah: Size Small

I thought I left skorts behind in middle school, until I tried this one on. It’s the perfect length—short, but not too short. The pleats in the back are flattering and make it easier to add this skort into my everyday outfit rotation. It’s also breathable and comfortable, with just a little bit of compression. Plus, I love that it’s sustainably made with recycled plastic bottles.

Michelle: Size XXS 

Skorts are a staple in my summer wardrobe rotation, but I’ve never owned one as amazing as Athleta’s Advantage Skort! Just like the dress, this piece features functional built-in shorts with grippers (to keep them from riding up) and pockets (to store your tennis balls or other everyday essentials). Plus, there’s also two front zipper pockets to stash small valuables. The pleated skirt gives that classic tennis style on the court, while elevating your everyday look off the court. To find the perfect fit, I’d recommend sizing down.

Advantage Polo Tank

Advantage Polo Tank, $65 at athleta.com

Sarah: Size Medium

I’ve worn this both to the office and on the tennis court, so I can attest that it’s truly versatile. It weighs nothing, and the smooth fabric feels so light and silky once it’s on. It’s also quick-drying and odor-controlling, so you can confidently wear it anywhere, right from the gym. It also runs true to size—and now I’m seriously considering getting the navy version… 

Michelle: Size XS  

Pair this tank with the Advantage Skort to hit the courts in style! I love how breathable and lightweight it feels, with sweat-wicking fabric and UPF 50+ sun protection for those extra sunny days. It’s versatile enough to wear to the office, grocery store, and brunch with friends, as well as for other sports like running, golf, or pickleball. I have the tank in a size XS, which offers a loose, airy fit.

Advantage Poplin Top

Advantage Poplin Top, $159 at athleta.com

Sarah: Size Small

This top has carried me through long days at the office, lunch with my parents, and happy hour with friends. The water-repellent finish is ideal for spring days when it may (or may not?) rain, and I love that it’s long enough to cover everything when I wear leggings underneath. I can leave the high neck up or fold it down for a more casual look, and the large pleat in the back is such a nice, unexpected detail. 

And did I mention it has pockets? But it definitely runs large, so I recommend ordering one size down from your usual. 

Michelle: Size Small 

A versatile outer layer, this piece is perfect for everyday wear and outdoor activities such as walking, running, golfing, and (of course!) playing tennis. I’ve worn it on mild, rainy days and it has kept me cool, dry and comfortable for hours at a time. I love the quarter-zip scrunch collar, flattering tunic length, and two zippered pockets. 

The size small looks super oversized on me, so I would order the size XXS next time. Reviewers agree that the top runs large, so consider sizing down for a more flattering oversized fit.

Advantage Polo Top

Advantage Polo Top, $129 at athleta.com 

Sarah: Size Medium

This is the ultimate lightweight layer. It runs true to size—I’m a Medium in most tops, and this had just the right amount of room. The cropped length is perfect, and the banded bottom keeps me feeling secure while bending over or stretching. I like the attention to detail, with convenient thumbholes and a polished collar that makes this top feel like more than just activewear. 

The fabric is abrasion- and wrinkle-resistant, making this an ideal companion for your summer travels that’s easy to pack. And like most Advantage Collection pieces, this top is also quick-drying, with UPF 50+ sun protection. 

Advantage Sweater

Advantage Sweater, $159 at athleta.com

Michelle: Size XS 

Your new favorite sweater! I love how versatile this outer layer is: I’ve worn it to the office, on a coffee date with friends, and to the pickleball courts on a chilly spring day. The super soft fabric is warm enough for mild temperatures, but still lightweight and breathable enough to avoid uncomfortable sweating. And like other pieces from the collection, this sweater has thoughtful design elements like zippered pockets and thumbholes. 

I wear a size XS and the fit is just right. I love the stunning Damask Mauve color so much that I’m also adding the Bright White to my cart for a more neutral look.

Advantage Court Visor

Advantage Court Visor, $29 at athleta.com

Sarah: 

Sleek and stylish, this is not your mom’s visor. The sides feature cooling mesh, which boosts airflow to prevent sweat from building up while you walk or play. It’s also washable, for easy care, and I love the Mauve option! It’s the perfect accessory that pairs well with any other Advantage pieces or your favorite activewear.

Michelle: 

Along with your favorite pair of sunnies and a high-quality pair of tennis shoes, this visor is the perfect accessory to swing up to the courts in style. It’s lightweight and breathable, with a barely-there feel. I love the Bright White color, which is perfect for topping off any outfit. And it’s machine washable—a huge plus! 

Other Advantage Collection Pieces We Love

While we didn’t wear-test these ourselves, there’s still a lot to love about the rest of Athleta’s Advantage Collection. Don’t miss out on:

• Made from the same breezy fabric as the Advantage Poplin Top, the Advantage Cinch Top ($149) is the perfect blend of practicality and head-turning design. The adjustable, cinched waist and the double zipper offer endless ways to wear. It’s also water-repellent and abrasion-resistant, with a UPF 50+ protection rating. 
• The Advantage Polo Tee ($69) has everything we like about the Polo Tank in a slightly different silhouette. The rounded hem can be tucked in or left loose, while the longer sleeves offer more protection during hot, sunny days on the court or at the park.
• With pleats in the back and a high neckline, the Advantage Jacket ($159) is a casual layer that’s anything but simple. The stretchy fabric is made with recycled plastic bottles, for a jacket that looks and feels great on.