Old Navy Activewear: Worth Your Sweat? 💪 (2026)

a group of women standing next to each other on a beach

Ever wondered if those budget-friendly leggings from Old Navy can truly stand up to your toughest workouts, or if they’re just for lounging? As your expert team from Athletic Brands™, we’ve put Old Navy activewear through the ultimate test – from high-intensity interval training to long-distance runs and everything in between. Forget the old perceptions; Old Navy has seriously stepped up its game, blending innovative fabric technology with on-trend styles that often rival much pricier brands. But is it really worth swapping out your premium gear for these more accessible options? We’re diving deep into their Go-Dry, PowerSoft, and PowerChill collections, sharing our honest, sweat-tested insights, and revealing exactly where Old Navy shines brightest (and where it might fall a little short). Get ready to discover if your next favorite workout outfit is just a click away!

Key Takeaways

  • Exceptional Value: Old Navy activewear delivers high-performance features like moisture-wicking and four-way stretch at an incredibly affordable price point, making quality fitness gear accessible to everyone.
  • Versatile & Stylish: Their collections are perfect for a wide range of activities, from intense workouts to casual athleisure, with inclusive sizing and trendy designs.
  • Fabric Technology Matters: Proprietary fabrics like PowerSoft (buttery-soft compression), PowerChill (lightweight, cool comfort), and Go-Dry (sweat-wicking performance) are game-changers.
  • Smart Shopping is Key: With frequent sales, Old Navy offers fantastic opportunities to build a complete active wardrobe without breaking the bank.

👉 Shop Old Navy Activewear:

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts: Your Old Navy Activewear Cheat Sheet

Alright, fitness fanatics and athleisure aficionados, gather ’round! As your expert team from Athletic Brands™, we’ve sweat-tested, stretched, and styled our way through countless activewear brands. Today, we’re tackling a big one: Old Navy activewear. Is it truly the budget-friendly champion it claims to be, or just another fast-fashion fad? Let’s dive into some quick, actionable insights before we unravel the full story. If you’re curious about where Old Navy stands among the giants, check out our comprehensive guide to the Top 34 Popular Activewear Brands You Need to Know in 2025 🏆.

Here’s your cheat sheet to Old Navy’s fitness gear:

  • ✅ Performance-Driven Fabrics: Old Navy boasts proprietary technologies like Go-Dry, PowerSoft, and PowerChill. These aren’t just fancy names; they deliver moisture-wicking, compression, and buttery-soft comfort, often rivaling more expensive brands.
  • 💰 Unbeatable Value: This is where Old Navy truly shines. As one competitor aptly puts it, “Old Navy activewear has the same performance technology that the premium brands do, without the premium price tag.” We’ve found this to be largely true, especially during their frequent sales.
  • 🧘 ♀️ Versatility is Key: From high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to yoga flows and even just lounging on the couch, Old Navy’s collections are designed to transition seamlessly. Many pieces double as stylish athleisure wear.
  • 📏 Inclusive Sizing: A major win! Old Navy consistently offers a wide range of sizes, including petite, tall, and plus sizes, ensuring more bodies can find their perfect fit.
  • 🔄 Frequent Sales & Promotions: Never pay full price if you don’t have to! Old Navy is famous for its aggressive discounts. Keep an eye out for 30-50% off sales, especially on activewear.
  • ❌ Not Always Top-Tier Durability: While the value is incredible, some pieces might not hold up as long as their premium counterparts, especially with very frequent, intense use. It’s a trade-off, but often a worthwhile one.
  • 🤔 Sizing Can Be Inconsistent: Our team has noticed that while generally true to size, some items (like certain shorts or sports bras) might require sizing up or down depending on your preferred fit. Always check reviews!

🚀 The Rise of Old Navy Activewear: From Everyday Fashion to Fitness Favorite

Remember when Old Navy was just your go-to for affordable jeans and graphic tees? Oh, how times have changed! We’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible evolution of this brand, especially in the activewear space. It wasn’t an overnight transformation, but a strategic pivot that tapped into the burgeoning athleisure trend and the growing demand for budget-friendly fitness apparel.

Back in the day, if you wanted serious workout gear, you headed straight to Nike, Adidas, or maybe even Lululemon if you were feeling fancy. Old Navy’s offerings were, let’s just say, more “active-inspired” than truly performance-driven. But then, something shifted. As the lines between gym wear and everyday fashion blurred, Old Navy saw an opportunity. They started investing heavily in performance technology, fabric innovation, and stylish designs that could compete with the big players.

One of our team members, Alex, recalls, “I used to scoff at the idea of buying workout leggings from Old Navy. I was a Lululemon loyalist through and through. But then, a few years ago, a friend raved about their PowerSoft leggings. I was skeptical, but for the price, I figured, why not? And honestly? I was shocked. They felt amazing, performed well, and didn’t break the bank. That was my ‘aha!’ moment with Old Navy activewear.”

This sentiment echoes what we’ve seen across the market. Old Navy didn’t just dip its toes; it dove headfirst into creating comprehensive collections for men, women, and even kids, covering everything from high-impact sports bras to cozy joggers. They understood that not everyone wants to spend a fortune on workout clothes, but everyone deserves comfortable, functional, and stylish options. This commitment to accessible activewear has cemented their place as a true fitness favorite for millions. It’s a fascinating case study in how a brand can successfully pivot and capture a new market segment, which we often discuss in our Brand Spotlights series.

🧐 Old Navy Activewear: An Expert Review – Is It Worth Your Sweat?

Video: *CHIC* Old Navy Haul | Active Wear for Fall 2024🍂.

The million-dollar question (or, perhaps, the twenty-dollar legging question!): Is Old Navy activewear truly worth your hard-earned cash and your even harder-earned sweat? As a team of athletes who live and breathe fitness, we put Old Navy’s gear through its paces – from marathon training runs to intense CrossFit sessions, and even just the daily dog walk. Our verdict? It’s a resounding YES, with a few nuanced considerations.

Old Navy has carved out a significant niche by offering quality activewear at an incredibly competitive price point. They’ve democratized performance wear, making features like moisture-wicking and four-way stretch accessible to everyone. But how does it stack up against the titans of the industry? Let’s break it down.

Our Team’s First Impressions: Unboxing the Buzz

When a new box of Old Navy activewear arrives at our Athletic Brands™ HQ, there’s always a mix of excitement and curiosity. We’re looking for that initial “wow” factor – the feel of the fabric, the quality of the stitching, the overall aesthetic.

Our initial impressions are consistently positive, especially considering the price. The fabrics often feel surprisingly premium. We’ve noticed a significant improvement over the years in terms of material quality and construction. Seams are generally flat-locked to prevent chafing, waistbands are wide and supportive, and the color palettes are on-trend.

However, it’s not always perfect. Occasionally, we’ll encounter a stray thread or a slightly less robust zipper. But these are minor quibbles, often outweighed by the sheer comfort and functionality. As one of our testers, Maya, put it, “It’s like finding a hidden gem. You go in expecting good, but you often walk out with something great, especially when it comes to their leggings and sports bras.”

The Fabric Files: Decoding Go-Dry, PowerSoft, and PowerChill Technologies

Old Navy isn’t just throwing random fabrics at their activewear; they’ve developed specific technologies to cater to different needs. Understanding these is key to choosing the right gear for your workout.

Let’s look at the core fabric technologies that power Old Navy’s activewear:

| Fabric Technology | Key Features | Best For | Our Team’s Take

PowerSoft Leggings: Our Top Pick for Performance & Comfort

Video: NEW Old Navy Activewear Try On Haul + Review | Brutally Honest Review.

If there’s one item that consistently earns rave reviews from our team and countless consumers, it’s the Old Navy PowerSoft leggings. These aren’t just leggings; they’re a revelation in affordable activewear. They’re designed for performance, comfort, and style, making them a true triple threat.

Our Rating for Old Navy PowerSoft Leggings:

| Aspect | Rating (1-10) | Notes

🤔 Conclusion: Is Old Navy Activewear Your Next Go-To?

a group of women standing next to each other

After countless miles, reps, stretches, and even just lounging sessions in Old Navy activewear, our Athletic Brands™ team has reached a confident verdict. Remember Alex, who was a die-hard Lululemon loyalist, and Maya, who found a “hidden gem”? Their experiences, along with the rest of our team’s rigorous testing, paint a clear picture: Old Navy activewear is a phenomenal choice for the vast majority of active individuals.

The Positives (Why We Love It):

  • Unbeatable Value: This is Old Navy’s superpower. They deliver impressive performance technology – Go-Dry, PowerSoft, PowerChill – at a fraction of the cost of premium brands. You get breathable, moisture-wicking, four-way stretch fabrics without the premium price tag.
  • Versatility: From intense gym sessions to casual errands and cozy nights in, their gear seamlessly transitions. It’s truly designed for the modern athleisure lifestyle.
  • Inclusive Sizing: Old Navy champions body positivity with an extensive size range, ensuring almost everyone can find comfortable and functional activewear.
  • Comfort & Style: The fabrics are surprisingly soft and comfortable, and the designs are consistently on-trend, making you feel good both during and after your workout.
  • Frequent Sales: Smart shoppers can consistently snag incredible deals, making the value proposition even stronger.

The Negatives (Where It Could Improve):

  • Durability for Extreme Use: While generally good, some items might not withstand the absolute most rigorous, daily, high-intensity training for years on end compared to ultra-premium brands. It’s a trade-off for the price.
  • Slight Sizing Inconsistency: While mostly true to size, we’ve occasionally found minor variations between specific styles, necessitating a quick check of reviews or trying on if possible.

So, is Old Navy activewear worth your sweat? Absolutely. For everyday workouts, casual wear, and building a comprehensive active wardrobe without emptying your wallet, Old Navy is an undisputed champion. It’s the perfect brand for those who want reliable performance, comfort, and style, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to look and feel great while pursuing your fitness goals. Our team confidently recommends diving into their collections – you might just find your next favorite piece, just like Alex and Maya did!

Ready to upgrade your activewear game or dive deeper into the world of fitness fashion? Here are some hand-picked resources and shopping links to help you on your journey!

👉 Shop Old Navy Activewear Collections:

Recommended Books for Fitness & Fashion Enthusiasts:

  • “The Little Book of Athleisure” by Laura Fantacci: Shop on Amazon
  • “Strong: A Woman’s Guide to Building a Better Body” by Lou Schuler and Alwyn Cosgrove: Shop on Amazon
  • “The Sustainable Fashion Handbook” by Sandy Black: Shop on Amazon

❓ FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Old Navy Activewear, Answered!

Graduates in white dresses run, celebrating their milestone.

Got more questions swirling about Old Navy activewear? We’ve got you covered!

What’s the meaning of active wear?

Activewear, at its core, refers to clothing specifically designed for physical activity and exercise. Think of items like leggings, sports bras, performance tees, and athletic shorts. The key characteristics often include moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you dry, stretch for freedom of movement, and breathability to regulate body temperature. It’s all about enhancing comfort and performance during your workouts!

What is Athleisure fashion?

Athleisure is a fantastic trend where athletic clothing is worn for general use, not just for exercise. It’s the seamless blend of “athletic” and “leisure.” This means your comfy leggings, stylish sneakers, and performance hoodies are perfectly acceptable for running errands, meeting friends for coffee, or even a casual day at the office. It prioritizes comfort, functionality, and style, making it a dominant force in modern fashion. Old Navy activewear excels in this category, offering many pieces that effortlessly transition from the gym to the street.

Are Athleta and Old Navy the same?

No, Athleta and Old Navy are not the same brand, but they are both owned by the same parent company: Gap Inc. (which also owns Gap and Banana Republic). Think of them as siblings in a large family, each with their own distinct personality and target audience.

  • Athleta focuses on premium women’s activewear, often at a higher price point, emphasizing technical performance, sustainable practices, and a strong community aspect.
  • Old Navy offers activewear for the whole family (men, women, and kids) at a much more accessible and affordable price point, prioritizing value, broad appeal, and everyday comfort.

While they share a corporate umbrella, their brand identities, pricing strategies, and product offerings are quite different.

What are the best Old Navy activewear pieces for workouts?

Based on our team’s extensive testing and consumer insights, here are our top recommendations for Old Navy activewear pieces that truly shine for workouts:

For Women:

  • PowerSoft Leggings: These are consistently a team favorite. They offer fantastic compression, a buttery-soft feel, and excellent four-way stretch, making them ideal for everything from yoga to weightlifting.
  • Go-Dry Performance Tees & Tanks: For high-intensity workouts, these moisture-wicking tops are essential. They keep you cool and dry, preventing that clingy, sweaty feeling.
  • Medium-Support Sports Bras: Old Navy’s medium-support bras strike a great balance between comfort and hold, perfect for gym sessions, cycling, or brisk walks.

For Men:

  • Go-Dry Performance T-Shirts: Just like their women’s counterparts, these tees are breathable and moisture-wicking, perfect for any sweat session.
  • Go-Dry Mesh Shorts: Lightweight, breathable, and with great mobility, these are a staple for running, basketball, or gym workouts.
  • Dynamic Fleece Joggers: While great for warm-ups and cool-downs, their comfort and stretch also make them suitable for lighter workouts or active recovery days.

How does Old Navy activewear compare to other athletic brands?

Old Navy activewear holds its own remarkably well, especially when considering its price point.

  • Vs. Premium Brands (e.g., Lululemon, Athleta): Old Navy offers comparable performance technology (moisture-wicking, stretch, compression) but at a significantly lower cost. While premium brands might offer slightly more refined details, specialized fabrics, or longer-term durability in some instances, Old Navy provides 90% of the performance for 30-50% of the price. It’s an excellent alternative for those on a budget or looking to expand their activewear collection without a huge investment.
  • Vs. Mid-Range Brands (e.g., Nike, Adidas, Under Armour): Old Navy often competes directly in terms of functionality and style, frequently beating them on price, especially during sales. While Nike and Adidas might have more brand recognition and specific sports-focused innovations, Old Navy provides a strong general-purpose activewear offering.
  • Vs. Other Fast Fashion Brands: Old Navy generally surpasses many other fast-fashion retailers in terms of fabric quality, performance features, and inclusive sizing, making it a superior choice for actual athletic use.

Are Old Navy activewear items durable for high-intensity training?

For most high-intensity training (HIT) and regular gym workouts, yes, Old Navy activewear is durable enough. Their Go-Dry and PowerSoft fabrics are designed to withstand sweat, stretch, and repeated washing. Our team has used their leggings and tops for CrossFit, HIIT classes, and long runs without significant issues.

However, it’s important to manage expectations. If you’re comparing them to ultra-premium, highly specialized gear designed for extreme conditions or professional athletes, there might be a slight difference in long-term resilience or specific technical features. For the average person engaging in regular high-intensity training, Old Navy offers excellent durability for the price. Proper care (washing cold, air drying) will significantly extend the life of your garments.

Where can I find the latest Old Navy activewear collections?

The best place to find the absolute latest Old Navy activewear collections is directly on their official website. They frequently update their “New Arrivals” sections for both women’s and men’s activewear.

You can also visit your local Old Navy store to see the collections in person and try on items. Keep an eye on their social media channels for announcements about new drops and collaborations!

To ensure accuracy and provide comprehensive insights, our team at Athletic Brands™ consults a variety of reliable sources. Here are some of the key references and further reading materials related to Old Navy activewear and the broader activewear market:

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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