How should you wear athleisure?

The beauty of athleisure is that it can be dressed up or down, depending on your personal style and where you're headed. This may mean wearing joggers and a hoodie with your favorite sneakers, sporting a matching crop top and leggings, or even throwing on a statement piece like Alo Yoga’s Oversized Faux Fur Trench . The possibilities are endless. “I usually like my leggings and sports bras fitted, and then I pair them with a dad hat, an oversized windbreaker, bomber, or leather jacket with high socks rolled down, and a platform sneaker,” Amato says. “If I’m headed straight to a workout, I trade the platforms for training or running sneakers.”

How do you care for athleisure wear?

To prolong the life of your athleisure wear, follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. If you are unsure, the safest option is to wash the garment in cold water on a gentle cycle and hang it to dry. This helps preserve the fabric’s elasticity over time. Also, avoid using fabric softeners, as they can reduce the sweat-wicking capabilities of synthetic fabric. Amato advises hand washing extra delicate pieces, especially if the fabric is metallic, shiny, or has delicate straps or appliques, like rhinestones.

What should you look for in athleisure wear?

“I think it is important to find fabrics that feel good to you so that you don't have any unnecessary distractions when working out,” Amato says. “I also find that when I'm excited to wear something, it makes me excited to work out and work even harder.” Look for comfortable materials in styles and cuts that make you feel confident.

How is athleisure wear different from activewear?

Athleisure wear is different from activewear in the sense that activewear prioritizes performance features, like sweat-wicking fabrics or targeted compression. While athleisure wear may also feature performance fabrics, the pieces are more geared toward style and versatility, so you can also wear them beyond the gym.

How should athleisure fit?

Athleisure is not all leggings and sweatpants. The category is broad and varies by brand. You can find styles to meet your taste—whether you like fitted, flowy, relaxed, or cropped, there’s no shortage of athleisure looks. But the right fit will feel comfortable: not too tight, not too loose, and effortless enough to wear all day long.

Can athleisure go in the dryer?

It's best to check the label or brand website for washing and drying instructions for your athleisure wear. If you are unsure, avoid the dryer or use the delicate setting with low heat. Your best bet is to let your athleisure wear air dry.

The 16 Best Places to Buy Athleisure of 2023

Peloton Instructor Olivia Amato is almost always wearing athleisure, both on and off the bike. "It's actually my favorite way to dress and fits right in with a lot of my street style pieces," she says. “Whether I’m going to walk my dog, Tobi, grabbing lunch with friends, heading to work, or actually working out, I’m able to wear my athleisure clothes.”

Athleisure is a stylish way to stay comfortable anywhere you go—not just at the gym. But with so many places to shop, finding brands that offer high-quality activewear pieces can be difficult (not to mention confusing).

After researching dozens of athleisure brands and consulting with experts, we’ve narrowed down the best-in-class retailers based on style, quality, price, sizing, company values, shipping and return policies, and more.

Based on our research, here are the best places to buy athleisure.

Our Top Picks

Girlfriend Collective

In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected
What to Look for
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

Lululemon

Pros

Durable, comfortable fabrics
Free shipping, returns, and hemming
Large, often-updated sale section

Cons

Expensive
Some items may run small

Lululemon is one of our top overall picks because they make it easy to shop for high-quality athleisure made from fabrics that are just as durable as they are comfortable. Among the brand’s collection of premium leggings, the Align Pant is a best-seller. It's made from Lululemon's weightless Nulu fabric, which conforms to your body like a second skin without slipping or digging in.

Lululemon also keeps its core pieces, like the Define Jacket, Groove Pant, and Pace Rival Mid-Rise Skirt, in rotation, regularly releasing these customer favorites in new colors. And it’s a destination of choice for men’s athleisure wear—fan favorites include the ABC Pant and the Pace Breaker Lined Short.

What goes into making a Lululemon bestseller? It’s so much more than its luxe, technical sweat-wicking fabrics. Inside the brand’s Whitespace R&D lab, a team researches how clothing can impact both your physical and mental performance.

While we love the brand’s commitment to making stellar clothing, the price point is higher than others on our list, and some pieces may run small. But if your apparel doesn’t perform as intended, Lululemon stands by its quality promise—meaning that if a product doesn't perform as it should, Lululemon will take it back, no questions asked.

Testing Notes: “There’s a growing Align Collection with buttery-soft basics beyond the iconic leggings. The Align Tank Top is the perfect two-piece set when paired with high-rise leggings or shorts. I also love the Align Waist-Length Tank Top, which has a similar design, but in a full-length tank. Note that the fabric of these tanks is slightly thicker than the Align leggings for good coverage.”

For a deal, shop its sale section, "We Made Too Much," which is frequently updated with popular styles in seasonal prints and colors.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: Women’s 0 to 20, men’s XS to XXL and 28 to 46 | Shipping Cost: Free standard shipping | Shipping Window: 2 to 6 business days | Return Cost: Free | Return Window: Within 30 days of receipt}

Athleta

Pros

Women’s and kids’ sizes
Petite, regular, and tall inseams
Modern, streetwear-inspired designs

Cons

Expensive
Shipping fee on orders under $50

One of the many reasons why Athleta is our other top pick is its commitment to inclusion. The activewear company—owned by Gap—celebrates all ages, bodies, and abilities in their marketing, advertising, and the way they design clothing. Both its women’s and children’s lines come in a wide range of sizes featuring petite, regular, and tall inseams, so it’s easy to find the perfect fit.

Athleta often updates its collections with upscale, streetwear-inspired essentials, in addition to core customer favorites like the Salutation Stash Tight. The brand offers versatile, easy-to-wear styles, including dresses, jackets, blazers, tees, and tanks, along with a variety of sleek pants like the Brooklyn Ankle Pant and Venice Jogger. Plus, we love that Athleta’s pieces come in both neutral and trendsetting seasonal colors.

Testing Notes: “One of my go-to pieces from Athleta is the Renew Seamless Racerback Tank. With so many colors to choose from, I love that you can dress it up or down, and wear it as a polished layering piece or as a workout top. For a business casual look, I pair it with the Avenue Blazer and a slim black pant.”

The company is also known for its “Give-It-A-Workout Guarantee”: If you’re not satisfied, even after putting its clothes to the test, then Athleta will take items back for a full refund. Another perk for customers is the Athleta Rewards program: Members earn one point for every $1 spent across the Gap family of brands. However, there is a shipping fee on all orders under $50, and the pieces are more expensive than others on our list.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: Women’s XXS to 3X, Athleta Girl XS to XXL, 6 to 16 | Shipping Cost: From $5 to $25, Rewards Members get free shipping on all orders $50+ | Shipping Window: 2 to 10 business days | Return Cost: Free | Return Window: Within 60 days of ship date}

Gymshark

Pros

Budget-friendly
Squat-proof, sweat-wicking performance fabrics

Cons

Limited women’s size range

The U.K. activewear brand Gymshark has grown popular on social media for designing high-quality, affordable activewear. Choose from a wide assortment of men’s and women’s styles, ranging from matching sets to basics (and almost everything in between).

The brand is most well-known for its leggings, including the popular body-sculpting Flex Leggings. Offered in various styles, Gymshark’s leggings are made from a durable, squat-proof performance fabric that delivers a supportive fit and feel. Create a matching set by pairing some of their leggings with the line's Vital Seamless 2.0 Crop Top or the Vital Seamless 2.0 V Neck Sports Bra.

When it comes to men’s styles, you can choose from different fits like slim, regular, and oversized. If you prefer a slim fit, we suggest the Crest Hoodie or Crest Sweatshirt. For a regular fit, try the 100-percent cotton Crest T-Shirt or the sweat-wicking Arrival T-Shirt. For a relaxed fit, we recommend the Essential Oversized T-Shirt and Essential Oversized Joggers. Just note that men’s styles are offered in 3X, while most women’s styles aren’t.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: Women's XS to XXL, men's XS to 3X | Shipping Cost: $5 or free on orders over $75 | Shipping Window: 4 to 7 business days | Return Cost: Free via Happy Returns | Return Window: Within 30 days of purchase}

Alo Yoga

Pros

Sleek statement pieces
Durable, sweat-wicking fabrics
Free shipping

Cons

Expensive
Limited size range

Alo Yoga designs men’s and women’s yoga apparel, athleisure, and outerwear that transitions seamlessly from the studio to the street. Its luxe lineup features elevated textures and detailing—think statement pieces that boast moto style paneling, faux leather, artful seams, intricate straps, and cutouts.

The pieces can be worn far beyond the yoga studio—some, like the Oversized Faux Fur Trench and Goddess Ribbed Cross Crop Top, will fit right in with the rest of your closet. In men’s, Alo boasts a selection of sophisticated and cool essentials, like the Idol Hooded Runner and the Traverse Pullover.

For the best of both worlds, Alo Airbrush is a cottony-soft knit with a matte, wear-anywhere finish. The brand offers plenty of pieces made with this silky fabric, including the beloved Airbrush Leggings and High Waist Flutter Leggings. Those who love to accessorize or always rep their favorite brand can sport the iconic Off-Duty Cap and Unisex Throwback Sock.

Testing Notes: “What I love most about Alo is how high-quality the fabrics are. The Airbrush Leggings are the perfect hybrid pant for workouts or play because the durable fabric offers excellent coverage and breathability. For a pair that can be dressed up, I like the Moto Leggings.”

While the price point is high (similar to Lululemon), the durable, lasting performance fabrics are worth the investment. And we like that Alo Yoga offers free shipping plus a 25% discount for certified fitness professionals through the Alo Yoga Pro program. Just note, that not all pieces are made in the brand’s full size range.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: Women’s XXS to 2XL, men’s S to 2XL | Shipping Cost: Free | Shipping Window: Standard UPS Ground (most orders ship within 24 hours) | Return Cost: Free | Return Window: Within 30 days of purchase}

Girlfriend Collective

Pros

Commitment to sustainability
Wide size range
Offers a recycling program

Cons

Restocking fee for returns

Girlfriend Collective offers sustainable, ethically made athleisure wear in sizes XXS through 6XL, plus maternity sizes. The brand makes its apparel using post-consumer plastics—its iconic Compressive High-Rise Legging is made with 25 recycled water bottles in each pair. Even its dyes are eco-friendly, and its fabric is certified Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex, meaning it has been proven to be free of harmful substances after rigorous testing.

The brand makes finding your new favorite piece easy with its wide selection of trendy basics, like the Paloma Racerback Dress and the Coco Scoop Bodysuit. There are sporty finds, too, from leggings and biker shorts to tees, bras, and crop tops, including the fan-favorite Paloma Racerback Bra. And the men’s collection is centered around everyday staples.

Girlfriend Collective also offers all sorts of ways to save. The brand has rewards and referral programs, plus a 20% discount for hospital employees, military, first responders, medical providers, nurses, teachers, and students. Customers can also earn a $15 merchandise credit by sending in used pairs of Girlfriend Collective bras, leggings, and shorts to be upcycled into new clothing through the ReGirlfriend program.

However, there is a $7 shipping and restocking fee for mail-in returns.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: XXXS to 6X | Shipping Cost: $7 to $12 or free shipping for orders over $100 and certain members | Shipping Window: 7 to 10 business days after 1 to 4 days of processing time | Return Cost: $7 | Return Window: Within 30 days of ship date}

Nike

Pros

Sleek, sporty styles
Basics and statement pieces
Personalization options

Cons

Shipping window varies

Nike has been making athletic footwear, apparel, and equipment since 1964. In recent years, the iconic brand has combined its sport-focused aesthetic with high fashion and streetwear, collaborating with athletes, artists, and designers on limited-edition sneakers and capsule apparel collections.

From neutrals to neons, there’s a Nike style that speaks to everyone. For a streetwear-inspired, off-duty look, the Nike Air Dri-FIT Swoosh 1/2-Zip is a mock-neck, longline sports bra that’s easily paired with high-waisted leggings or joggers. In men’s, popular basics include the Nike Sportswear Club Fleece Joggers. And the shoe options are almost endless—we recommend the Air Zoom Pegasus 39 and the Metcon 8.

Looking for a more unique pair? “Nike By You” invites customers to bring their footwear dreams to life by designing a custom pair of sport or lifestyle shoes. You can sign up for a free Nike Membership to get exclusive offers, plus free standard shipping and returns on all orders. However, some orders may take a while to ship.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: Women's XS to 3X, men's XS to 4X | Shipping Cost: $8 or free with membership | Shipping Window: Varies | Return Cost: Varies, or free with membership | Return Window: Within 60 days of purchase}

Abercrombie & Fitch

Pros

Wide range of sizes and inseams
Minimalist, functional clothing
Classic style

Cons

Limited size range
Shipping fee

Abercrombie & Fitch is home to well-constructed, elevated classics with beautiful designs in rich fabrics and textures. The expansive line offers athleisure staples for all seasons and styles, like the Traveler Mini Dress, the Cotton Seamless Fabric Scoopneck Tee, and the runway-worthy A&F Vegan Leather Mini Puffer.

The brand recently released its own activewear line, YPB—Your Personal Best—in which you’ll find structured, minimalist pieces that can be worn for fitness or fashion. The YPB Squareneck Slim Tank and matching YPB 7/8-Length Leggings come in a wide assortment of colors and feature a supportive performance fabric.

And we like that many YPB pieces are also offered in A&F’s Curve Love fit, which provides additional room at the hip, thigh, and bust, making them ideal for using a rowing machine or an elliptical. A&F also offers an impressive selection of men’s athleisure, like its best-selling A&F All-Day Athletic Skinny Pant. For a casual look, try a vintage-inspired graphic tee.

Abercrombie & Fitch frequently runs promotions and offers many ways to save, including its free MyAbercrombie rewards program. However, not all of their pieces are available in every size, and there is a shipping fee.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: Women’s XXS to XXL, 23W to 37W, men’s XS to XXL, 26W to 40W | Shipping Cost: $7 or free for orders over $99 | Shipping Window: 4 to 9 business days | Return Cost: $7 or free in store | Return Window: Within 30 days of ship date}

Outdoor Voices

Pros

Soft, sweat-wicking fabrics
Sustainable materials
Free returns

Cons

Only one length option in dresses, skirts
Shipping fee on orders under $75

Outdoor Voices has garnered major popularity for its fun and functional pieces, blurring the lines between traditional athletic wear and minimalist loungewear. The Austin-based lifestyle brand prides itself on making pieces that can be worn for any activity—from the mat to the track and beyond.

You may be familiar with the brand’s popular Exercise Dress, now joined by new styles like the One Shoulder Dress - Unlined. Outdoor Voices also offers a skorts & skirts section filled with fun and functional pieces, like The Exercise 3" Skort. However, most of these only come in one length.

Outdoor Voices is known for incorporating sustainable alternatives into its fabric collection. For a pair of light and airy, tailored sweatpants, check out the CloudKnit Sweatpant, available in both men’s and women’s sizes. Outdoor Voices also offers a select few pieces in unisex cuts and sizes, like the Rugby Longsleeve.

The brand has continued to update its color palette in its signature heathered fabric, plus select prints. We love that customers can also find the #DoingThings event calendar, which shows Outdoor Voices community workouts that are happening in your city. Although there is a shipping fee on less expensive orders, the high-quality fabrics will make it worth your while.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: XXS to XXXL | Shipping Cost: Free on orders over $75 | Shipping Window: 3 to 6 business days after 1 to 2 days of processing time | Return Cost: Free | Return Window: Within 45 days of purchase}

Free People

Pros

Soft, sweat-wicking fabrics
Sustainable materials
Free returns

Cons

Only one length option in dresses, skirts
Shipping fee on orders under $75

FP Movement, Free People’s in-house activewear line, brings the brand’s boho-chic aesthetic to an extensive collection of athleisure wear. Each piece has a signature detail—like ruffles, textures, washes, prints, decorative cutouts, or straps—that makes it truly unique.

The iconic smocked waistband The Way Home Shorts pair well with FP Movement’s collection of crop tops and tanks, like the Good Karma Crop Tank and Happiness Runs Crop Tank. Leaning into its mission to create clothing for the creative spirit, FP Movement also features a robust outerwear collection with cozy fleeces and packable puffer vests, like the Hit The Slopes Fleece Jacket.

Testing Notes: “One of my favorite FP Movement tops is the Good Karma Ruched Crop Tank. It’s super cute, and I liked that it ran a touch longer than most crops I’ve tried, which is hard to come by. The split sizing—like XS/S and M/L—can be difficult to judge at first, but the stretchy fabric makes it comfortable.”

For workouts, errands, or just hanging out, FP Movement has the clothes to outfit your active lifestyle. Need your order faster? The brand also has a buy online, pick up in-store option. However, FP Movement’s size range is limited compared to other brands on our list, and they don’t offer free shipping or returns.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: XS to XL | Shipping Cost: $7.95 on orders under $100 | Shipping Window: 5 to 8 business days | Return Cost: $5.95 | Return Window: Within 30 days of delivery}

ÉTERNE

Pros

Basic wardrobe staples without branding
Quality, lasting fabrics
Contemporary fits and cuts

Cons

Limited size range
Expensive

ÉTERNE is the destination for quality athleisure with a modern flair. Designed by celebrity stylist Chloé Bartol, the brand offers timeless wardrobe staples in a range of seasonless, neutral colors.

ÉTERNE's collection covers all the bases in terms of fit and style. It offers tees, tanks, and long-sleeve tops in different lengths that range from fitted to loose. The Cropped Long Sleeve Thermal and the Long Biker are just a few fan favorites.

The brand is also known for its signature cotton and modal fabric blend that's soft and lightweight. The Straight Leg Sweatpant, the Shrunken Raglan Sweatshirt, and the Cropped Scoop Neck Tank are all examples of this comfortable fabric in action. ÉTERNE's other offerings include bodysuits, bras, and dresses, like the Long Sleeve Turtleneck Dress Mini.

While these basics come at a high price point, each piece is thoughtfully designed in contemporary cuts that you’ll wear often. But most pieces are only offered in sizes XS-XL, and there are both shipping and return fees.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: XS to XL | Shipping Cost: Varies, free shipping on domestic orders over $100 | Shipping Window: 1 to 3 business days after 1 to 2 days of processing time | Return Cost: Varies | Return Window: Within 30 days of receipt}

Aritzia

Pros

Short, regular, and tall inseams
Durable, technical fabrics
Free shipping and returns with an account

Cons

Short return window

Aritzia curates timeless capsule collections through its portfolio of in-house fashion labels. Tna features cozy, versatile loungewear with a contemporary twist. Most collections include matching sets, leggings, joggers, crop tops, tees, tanks, and more.

For technical, sweat-wicking fabrics and sport-driven styles, try Aritzia’s TnAction. You’ll find high-performance activewear featuring workout-ready leggings, sports bras, skirts, and even dresses. TnAction’s muted color palette features versatile neutrals and rich earth tones, along with a few bright, punchy hues.

The popular TnaLIFE Cheeky Hi-Rise 7" Short is a great first piece to shop. We also love that Tna offers certain pieces in multiple lengths and inseams, like the Cozy Fleece Mega Cargo Sweatpant, the New Cozy Fleece Perfect Sweatpant, and the Cozy Fleece Boyfriend Zip Hoodie.

Both lines offer affordable options mixed with more expensive items. Sizes for both collections range from 2XS to 2XL, with a handful of pieces also offered in 3XS and 3XL. Enjoy free shipping and returns when you create a free Aritzia account. Just note that the return window is much shorter than that of other brands, at 14 days from the date your items ship.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: 3XS to 3XL, 0 to 14 | Shipping Cost: Free with an account | Shipping Window: 1 to 4 business days | Return Cost: Free with an account | Return Window: Within 14 days of ship date}

Fabletics

Pros

Budget-friendly with membership
Good perks for members
Wide, constantly changing selection

Cons

Longer shipping times
Sizing may vary

Fabletics is a go-to brand for budget-friendly, trendy athleisure with an optional subscription membership. Its collections are brimming with bold and bright matching sets, separates, dresses, and more. It’s also stocked with basics—like the men’s Training Day Tee and women’s Dry-Flex Tee—and cozy layers, like the Summit Teddy Jacket.

Fabletics is also home to exclusive labels, like Lizzo’s shapewear line, Yitty. And it's a top destination for a wide range of maternity clothes, like the popular PureLuxe High-Waisted Maternity 7/8 Legging. Women's sizes range from XXS to 4XL, and men’s sizes range from XS to 4XL (however, sizing may vary between styles). We like that the company also has short, regular, and tall inseams in both leggings and pants.

While you don’t need to be a member to shop Fabletics, only members receive discounted prices. Fabletics VIP Members score 20-50% off merchandise and gain free access to the Fabletics FIT app for workouts on demand. Members can either shop or skip a month—just note that you must opt out by the fifth of each month.

Sweat it out in your new ‘fit—and if you’re not completely satisfied, Fabletics will take the garment back for a return or exchange within 90 days. To save on shipping, Fabletics offers a buy online, pick up in-store option, which may be more convenient than waiting up to 14 days for your package to arrive.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: Women's XXS to 4X, Men's XS to 4X | Shipping Cost: $4.95 or free for orders over $49.95 | Shipping Window: 6 to 14 business days | Return Cost: Free via Happy Returns | Return Window: Within 90 days of ship date}

Vuori Clothing

Pros

Sustainable fabrics and ethical manufacturing
Backed by product guarantee
Long return policy and free returns

Cons

Limited size range

Inspired by its California roots, Vuori combines functional fashion with performance apparel. The brand’s styles are sustainable and built to last, whether you’re powering through barre class or going for a coffee run.

The men’s collection includes fan favorites like the Tradewind Performance Tee and the Kore Short. In women’s, we love the all-time bestselling Performance Jogger. For a high-rise, sturdy legging that offers a supportive hold, Vuori’s Daily Legging features a drawstring cord and a wide waistband. However, note that the brand has a more limited size range than others on our list.

Vuori maintains a steadfast commitment to sustainability, ethical manufacturing, and customer satisfaction. The brand is Climate Neutral Certified, which means it offsets all of its carbon emissions each year. Vuori is also committed to giving customers the best possible experience with its “Investment In Happiness” philosophy: If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, send it back for a full refund.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: Women's XXS to XXL, men's XS to XXL | Shipping Cost: Free on orders over $75 | Shipping Window: 4 to 10 business days after 3 to 4 days of processing time | Return Cost: Free | Return Window: Within 120 days of purchase}

MATE

Pros

Basic essentials
Organic, sustainable materials
Men’s, women’s, and children’s sizes

Cons

Limited styles offered in plus sizes
Expensive

Powered by a small, mission-driven team, MATE the Label has wardrobe essentials made with sustainable materials like Tencel, organic cotton, and linen. The company prides itself on manufacturing clothing without using toxic dyes, carcinogens, or plastic—a plus for those with sensitive skin or dye allergies.

The collection of organic basics ranges from wardrobe staples to versatile pieces that can be easily dressed up or down. Start with the Organic Cotton Classic Tee, the Organic Comfort Crop Tank, and the Organic Stretch Sports Bra. In addition to its women’s line, we like that MATE also offers men’s, kids’, and active collections. However, only some items are offered in plus sizes, and most are at a higher price point.

MATE is a Climate Neutral Certified company, meaning it has demonstrated a commitment to limiting its emissions, measuring its carbon footprint, and reducing its carbon impact. MATE is also a member of 1% for the Planet, an international network of businesses working to combat environmental issues.

To combat textile waste, MATE offers credit toward new purchases when you send back your worn items to be responsibly recycled through its reMATE program. You can also join MATE’s Clean Club for free and start earning rewards toward your next purchase.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: XS to 3X | Shipping Cost: $6 or free on orders over $150 | Shipping Window: 3 to 7 business days | Return Cost: $6.75 | Return Window: Within 30 days of purchase}

Joah Brown

Pros

Lightweight, soft materials
Upscale, modern styles
Easy to mix, match, and layer

Cons

Expensive
Limited size range
Short return window and no free returns

Joah Brown offers a collection of comfortable, contemporary essentials in neutral tones and textures. This cool and fashionable line is thoughtfully curated with tailored pieces like the Empire Jogger and the Body Tank. And on chilly days, you’ll want to curl up in the french terry Retro Half Zip.

For the gym, grab the Essential Legging and a sleek top, like the Invisible Zip Long Sleeve or the Varsity Tank Bra. The layering options are almost endless, and we love that the brand’s limited neutral palette means creating stylish sets couldn’t be easier.

However, most pieces are made with thin material, so they may not have enough support for larger busts. This brand also comes in at a higher price point than others on our list—and if you’re not satisfied with your order, you only have two weeks to return it (for a fee).

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: X/S (0-2) to M/L (8-10) | Shipping Cost: Free on orders over $200 | Shipping Window: 1-3 business days | Return Cost: $8 | Return Window: Within 14 days of receipt}

Lands' End

Pros

Wide range of sizes
Some styles have UPF protection

Cons

Return fee

Lands’ End delivers comfortable, durable clothing with an ongoing commitment to sustainability. We like the inclusive size range in the brand’s men’s, women’s, and children’s lines which includes regular, plus, petite, and tall options. Styles range from slim to classic cuts in contemporary colors that are suited for all seasons.

Lands’ End’s high-quality basics feature athleisure staples that’ll carry you from your morning walk to brunch in style. We like that some styles even come with built-in UPF protection, like the Crewneck Tunic Tank Top.

Lands’ End offers high-quality clothing at an affordable price point. If you want to personalize your apparel or accessories, you can even add a monogram at checkout. But while the return window is large, there is a $6.95 fee on all packages.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: Women’s XXS to 5X, men’s XS to 5XL | Shipping Cost: $9 or free on orders over $99 | Shipping Window: 4 to 10 business days | Return Cost: $6.95 | Return Window: Within 90 days of purchase}

How We Selected the Best Places to Buy Athleisure

To choose the best places to buy athleisure, we asked Peloton instructor Olivia Amato for her expert opinion on which athleisure brands stand apart from the rest. Then, we researched products from dozens of brands and evaluated them based on size range, price, style, and more. We also examined each company’s shipping and return policies to determine how easy it is to shop their athleisure collections.

What to Look for in Athleisure

Comfort

Athleisure should be comfortable and functional to take you from the gym to wherever else you need to go. Even for workout underwear or basics, opt for soft materials in styles without restrictive waistbands or ultra-compressive fits. Sweat-wicking fabric will keep you cool whether you’re lifting weights or racing up and down the aisles at the grocery store.

Performance Fabrics

Athleisure is designed to function during light exercise, so choose clothing made from breathable performance fabrics like nylon, polyester, and elastane. Most Lululemon fabrics, including the material that’s used to make the Align Pant, are made from a combination of these materials. Organic cotton and Tencel also offer a comfortable, lightweight feel.

Inclusive Sizing

Some brands have successfully expanded their size offerings to be more inclusive. But being inclusive doesn’t just fall on the size chart and clothing tags—it also points to the company’s culture, including how the brand portrays itself on social media, the models it chooses, its messaging, and the in-store experience. Our favorite athleisure brands with an inclusive size range and culture are Girlfriend Collective and Athleta.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should you wear athleisure?

The beauty of athleisure is that it can be dressed up or down, depending on your personal style and where you're headed. This may mean wearing joggers and a hoodie with your favorite sneakers, sporting a matching crop top and leggings, or even throwing on a statement piece like Alo Yoga’s Oversized Faux Fur Trench. The possibilities are endless.
“I usually like my leggings and sports bras fitted, and then I pair them with a dad hat, an oversized windbreaker, bomber, or leather jacket with high socks rolled down, and a platform sneaker,” Amato says. “If I’m headed straight to a workout, I trade the platforms for training or running sneakers.”
How do you care for athleisure wear?

To prolong the life of your athleisure wear, follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. If you are unsure, the safest option is to wash the garment in cold water on a gentle cycle and hang it to dry. This helps preserve the fabric’s elasticity over time. Also, avoid using fabric softeners, as they can reduce the sweat-wicking capabilities of synthetic fabric.
Amato advises hand washing extra delicate pieces, especially if the fabric is metallic, shiny, or has delicate straps or appliques, like rhinestones.
What should you look for in athleisure wear?

“I think it is important to find fabrics that feel good to you so that you don't have any unnecessary distractions when working out,” Amato says. “I also find that when I'm excited to wear something, it makes me excited to work out and work even harder.” Look for comfortable materials in styles and cuts that make you feel confident.
How is athleisure wear different from activewear?

Athleisure wear is different from activewear in the sense that activewear prioritizes performance features, like sweat-wicking fabrics or targeted compression. While athleisure wear may also feature performance fabrics, the pieces are more geared toward style and versatility, so you can also wear them beyond the gym.
How should athleisure fit?

Athleisure is not all leggings and sweatpants. The category is broad and varies by brand. You can find styles to meet your taste—whether you like fitted, flowy, relaxed, or cropped, there’s no shortage of athleisure looks. But the right fit will feel comfortable: not too tight, not too loose, and effortless enough to wear all day long.
Can athleisure go in the dryer?

It's best to check the label or brand website for washing and drying instructions for your athleisure wear. If you are unsure, avoid the dryer or use the delicate setting with low heat. Your best bet is to let your athleisure wear air dry.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Emily Stone is a writer for Verywell Fit, covering health, fitness, and apparel. Having worked for a women’s activewear company, she’s passionate about selecting quality fits and fabrics from inclusive, ethical brands.

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