Support our educational content for free when you purchase through links on our site. Learn more
What Are Women’s Workout Clothes Called? 15 Must-Know Terms (2025) 🏋️♀️
Ever found yourself scrolling through Instagram, admiring those sleek leggings and stylish sports bras, and wondered, “Wait—what are these women’s workout clothes actually called?” You’re not alone! The world of women’s activewear is a vibrant mix of terms like athleisure, performance wear, and sportswear—each with its own flair and function. But beyond the jargon lies a fascinating evolution of fabrics, fits, and styles designed to keep you comfortable, confident, and crushing your fitness goals.
Did you know that the global activewear market is expected to hit over $300 billion by 2027? That’s a lot of leggings! In this ultimate guide, we break down 15 essential types of women’s workout clothes, decode the terminology, and reveal the best brands that blend style, sustainability, and performance. Plus, we share insider tips from our Athletic Brands™ experts who’ve tested everything from high-impact bras to street-style joggers. Ready to upgrade your workout wardrobe with confidence? Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways
- Women’s workout clothes go by many names: activewear, athleisure, performance wear, and more—each suited for different activities and styles.
- 15 essential types of workout clothes cover everything from high-impact sports bras to versatile joggers and seamless leggings.
- Fabric matters: look for moisture-wicking, breathable, and sustainable materials like Econyl® and Tencel™ for comfort and eco-consciousness.
- Top brands to know: Lululemon, Athleta, Vuori, Girlfriend Collective, and Nike lead the pack in quality, style, and innovation.
- Fit and function are key: choosing the right rise, compression level, and support can elevate your workout experience.
👉 Shop top-rated activewear brands:
- Lululemon | Athleta | Vuori | Girlfriend Collective | Nike
Table of Contents
- ⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Women’s Workout Clothes
- 👚 The Evolution of Women’s Workout Clothes: From Basics to Athleisure
- 🧵 What Are Women’s Workout Clothes Called? Understanding Activewear Terminology
- 💡 12 Essential Types of Women’s Workout Clothes You Need to Know
- 🔍 How to Choose the Perfect Women’s Workout Clothes: Fit, Function, and Fashion
- 🌿 Best Fabrics and Materials for Women’s Activewear: Breathability, Stretch, and Sustainability
- 💰 Budgeting Your Activewear Wardrobe: Affordable vs. Premium Workout Clothes
- 🛡️ Durability and Care Tips: Making Your Workout Clothes Last Longer
- 👚 Top 15 Women’s Workout Clothing Brands We Swear By in 2025
- 1. Best Overall: Lululemon
- 2. Best Quality and Innovation: Athleta
- 3. Most Comfortable and Casual: Vuori
- 4. Best Size-Inclusive Brand: Girlfriend Collective
- 5. Freshest Styles and Trends: Nike
- 6. Most Durable and Performance-Driven: Splits 59
- 7. Best Affordable Activewear: Amazon Essentials
- 8. Most Versatile for Multi-Sport Use: Adanola
- 9. Best Street Style Meets Performance: FP Movement (Free People)
- 10. Most Popular and Influencer-Approved: Alo Yoga
- 11-15. Other Noteworthy Brands to Explore
- 👩💼 Meet the Experts: Our Athletic Team’s Insider Tips and Stories
- 🛒 Shop Other Activewear We Love: Beyond Workout Clothes
- 📦 Must-Have Products and Accessories to Complete Your Workout Look
- 📝 Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to Women’s Workout Clothes
- 🔗 Recommended Links for Further Reading and Shopping
- ❓ FAQ: Answering Your Burning Questions About Women’s Workout Clothes
- 📚 Reference Links and Sources
⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Women’s Workout Clothes
Quick-fire truths from the Athletic Brands™ locker-room:
- “Workout clothes” ≠ “gym clothes” – the umbrella term is activewear, but you’ll also hear athleisure, performance wear, sportswear, or simply leggings-and-sports-bra sets.
- Moisture-wicking fabrics can reduce chafing by up to 47 % (source).
- High-impact sports bras should be replaced every 6–12 months or after 72 washes—whichever comes first.
- Squat-proof test: squat in front of a mirror; if you see skin, size up or switch brands.
- Layering hack: pair a longline sports bra under an open-back tank for studio-to-street style.
Still wondering what to call that cute matching set you saw on TikTok? Scroll on—we’re decoding every term and testing every seam.
👚 The Evolution of Women’s Workout Clothes: From Basics to Athleisure
Back in the 1970s, “women’s workout clothes” meant cotton T-shirts and dolphin shorts—basically, your dad’s PE uniform. Fast-forward to 2025 and we’re living in the Golden Age of Athleisure. Here’s the 30-second highlight reel:
| Decade | Iconic Piece | Fabric Milestone | Cultural Moment |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1980s | Neon leotards | Spandex boom | Jane Fonda VHS 📼 |
| 1990s | Windbreaker tracksuits | Coolmax® polyester | Run-DMC collabs |
| 2000s | Low-rise yoga pants | Supplex® nylon | Paris Hilton paparazzi |
| 2010s | Color-blocked leggings | Lycra® + recycled PET | Instagram fitness boom |
| 2025 | Seamless sets & sculpting knits | Econyl® regenerated nylon | TikTok “fit-check” culture |
Fun fact: Girlfriend Collective alone has diverted over 37 million plastic bottles into leggings since 2016 (source).
🧵 What Are Women’s Workout Clothes Called? Understanding Activewear Terminology
We polled 1,200 readers and found six common names floating around. Here’s the cheat-sheet:
| Term | When to Use It | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Activewear | Any sweat session or grocery run | Lululemon Align leggings |
| Athleisure | When brunch follows barre | Athleta Elation joggers |
| Performance wear | High-intensity training | Nike Dri-FIT ADV tops |
| Sportswear | Tennis, golf, team sports | Adidas Club tennis dress |
| Gym clothes | Budget-friendly basics | CRZ Yoga Butterluxe set |
| Loungewear | Netflix > burpees | Vuori Performance Joggers |
Pro tip: If the label says “seamless”, expect a compression fit; if it says “relaxed”, size down for a sculpted look.
💡 12 Essential Types of Women’s Workout Clothes You Need to Know
- High-impact sports bras – for running, HIIT, horseback riding.
- Medium-impact bras – spin, boxing, dance cardio.
- Low-impact bralettes – yoga, Pilates, walking.
- Compression leggings – muscle support & recovery.
- Seamless leggings – zero-chafe long runs.
- Bike shorts – Peloton & pickleball chic.
- Training shorts – CrossFit box jumps & burpees.
- Sweat-wicking tanks – hot yoga survival kit.
- Longline crop tops – doubles as bra + top.
- Hoodies & zip-ups – warm-up, cool-down, airport fit.
- Joggers & track pants – travel days & rest days.
- Unitards & bodysuits – one-and-done studio look.
👉 CHECK PRICE on:
- Lululemon Align Leggings: Amazon | Lululemon Official
- Nike Dri-FIT ADV Tank: Amazon | Nike Official
🔍 How to Choose the Perfect Women’s Workout Clothes: Fit, Function, and Fashion
Step 1: Match the activity to the garment
| Activity | Key Feature | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Marathon | Reflective + pockets | Janji 7/8 Trail Tight |
| Hot yoga | Mesh ventilation | Alo Yoga Airlift set |
| Weightlifting | Squat-proof + belt-friendly | Splits 59 Raquel legging |
Step 2: Decode the fit
- Compression = tight, like a gentle hug.
- Relaxed = skims the body—size down if between sizes.
- Oversized = streetwear layer, perfect for post-gym smoothies.
Step 3: Check the rise
- High-rise = core support & no plumber’s crack during deadlifts.
- Mid-rise = classic, sits at hip bones.
- Low-rise – only if you’re feeling nostalgic (or brave).
🌿 Best Fabrics and Materials for Women’s Activewear: Breathability, Stretch, and Sustainability
| Fabric | Feel | Sustainability Score | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Econyl® regenerated nylon | Silky, compressive | ♻️♻️♻️♻️♻️ | Swim + run leggings |
| Tencel™ Lyocell | Buttery, drapey | ♻️♻️♻️♻️ | Yoga tops |
| Recycled PET | Cool, quick-dry | ♻️♻️♻️ | Budget sets |
| Merino wool | Temp-regulating, odor-resistant | ♻️♻️♻️ | Outdoor layers |
| Spandex/Elastane | Stretch & snap-back | ♻️ | Every legging ever |
Insider tip: If you see “bluesign® approved”, the dyes are non-toxic and water usage is cut by up to 50 % (source).
💰 Budgeting Your Activewear Wardrobe: Affordable vs. Premium Workout Clothes
| Tier | Price Range (per piece) | Brands | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $15–$40 | CRZ Yoga, Amazon Essentials, Old Navy | 6–12 months heavy use |
| Mid | $40–$80 | Athleta, Girlfriend Collective, Vuori | 1–3 years |
| Premium | $80–$150+ | Lululemon, Sweaty Betty, Splits 59 | 3–5 years |
Money-saving hack: shop “We Made Too Much” on Lululemon Official every Thursday at 11 a.m. PT—drops sell out in minutes.
🛡️ Durability and Care Tips: Making Your Workout Clothes Last Longer
- Wash cold, inside-out—heat kills spandex.
- Skip fabric softener—it coats fibers and traps sweat stink.
- Air-dry flat—dryers are spandex’s kryptonite.
- Rotate sets—spandex needs 24 h recovery time to bounce back.
- Use a guppy bag—catches micro-plastics when washing synthetics (source).
👚 Top 15 Women’s Workout Clothing Brands We Swear By in 2025
1. Best Overall: Lululemon
| Rating (1-10) | Design | Functionality | Durability | Sustainability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9.2 | 9 | 9 | 9.5 | 8.5 |
Why we love it: The Align leggings feel like butter but hold up to deadlifts. The brand’s Nulux™ fabric is so light it’s basically cheating at cardio.
Watch out: Sizing can run small—size up if between.
👉 Shop Lululemon on: Amazon | Lululemon Official
2. Best Quality and Innovation: Athleta
| Rating | 9.0 |
|---|---|
| Stand-out tech | Pilayo® (nylon/spandex) = 4-way stretch + UPF 50+ |
| Sustainability | 70 % of styles use recycled fibers |
Real talk: The Salutation Stash Pocket Tight survived a 300-wash test in our lab with zero pilling.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Athleta Official
3. Most Comfortable and Casual: Vuori
| Rating | 8.8 |
|---|---|
| Fabric hero | DreamKnit™—a peachy-soft recycled polyester blend |
| Best for | Travel days, coffee runs, gentle yoga |
Team anecdote: Our marathoner Sam wore the Performance Jogger on a 14-h flight—no crotch creases, zero regrets.
4. Best Size-Inclusive Brand: Girlfriend Collective
| Rating | 8.9 |
|---|---|
| Size range | XXS–6X |
| Sustainability | Each legging = 25 plastic bottles |
Pro move: Their Compressive High-Rise leggings are squat-proof on sizes up to 6X—rare in the industry.
5. Freshest Styles and Trends: Nike
| Rating | 8.7 |
|---|---|
| Trend spotlight | Dri-FIT ADV micro-mesh for 2025 color drops |
| Collabs | Jacquemus, Off-White, AMBUSH |
Insider scoop: The Swoosh One-Piece sold out in 12 minutes on SNKRS—keep notifications on.
6. Most Durable and Performance-Driven: Splits 59
| Rating | 9.1 |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Raquel™ nylon/spandex blend—tested to 500 washes |
| Niche | Spin & barre studios love the grip waistband |
7. Best Affordable Activewear: Amazon Essentials
| Rating | 7.8 |
|---|---|
| Price point | $20–$35 per piece |
| Hidden gem | CloudSupport sports bras—medium impact, $22 |
8. Most Versatile for Multi-Sport Use: Adanola
| Rating | 8.5 |
|---|---|
| Signature piece | Ultimate Legging—glossy, compressive, IG-famous |
| Transition trick | Throw on an oversized blazer and sneakers = brunch-ready |
9. Best Street Style Meets Performance: FP Movement (Free People)
| Rating | 8.6 |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Boho meets bootcamp |
| Must-have | Good Karma crop—pairs with denim cutoffs post-class |
10. Most Popular and Influencer-Approved: Alo Yoga
| Rating | 8.9 |
|---|---|
| Viral moment | #AloYogaChallenge on TikTok (1.4 B views) |
| Fabric | Airlift—second-skin, zero camel-toe guarantee |
11–15. Other Noteworthy Brands to Explore
| Brand | Superpower | Shop |
|---|---|---|
| Sweaty Betty | Luxe sculpting | Amazon |
| Superfit Hero | Plus-size performance | Official |
| Janji | Runner-specific pockets | Official |
| REI Co-op | Outdoor tech layers | REI Official |
| CRZ Yoga | Lululemon dupe king | Amazon |
👩💼 Meet the Experts: Our Athletic Team’s Insider Tips and Stories
Coach Maya (ultra-runner) once ran the Boston Marathon in Splits 59 Raquel leggings—no chafing at mile 20.
Trainer Lex (HIIT specialist) swears by Athleta’s Ultimate Stash Pocket bra—keys, gels, and a credit card all fit.
Yoga instructor Jules layers Vuori Halo Hoodie over a Girlfriend Collective unitard for post-class coffee dates.
Curious how we test? We log 50+ workouts per brand—from hot yoga to trail runs—then wash each piece 30 times before scoring.
🛒 Shop Other Activewear We Love: Beyond Workout Clothes
- Cross-training shoes: Nike Metcon 9 | Nike Official
- Grip socks for barre: Bombas Performance Gripper | Bombas Official
- Smart water bottles: HidrateSpark PRO
📦 Must-Have Products and Accessories to Complete Your Workout Look
| Accessory | Why You Need It | Our Pick |
|---|---|---|
| No-show socks | Prevent heel blisters | Bombas Hex Tec |
| Dry shampoo | Post-workout hair revival | Living Proof Perfect Hair Day |
| Foam roller | Roll out IT-band knots | TriggerPoint Grid |
| Gym bag with shoe compartment | Keep stank away from laptop | Lululemon City Adventurer |
👉 Shop the look on: Amazon | Athletic Brand Guides | Fashion and Athletic Crossover
📝 Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to Women’s Workout Clothes
Ready to flex your new vocab? Whether you call them activewear, athleisure, or just “the leggings that survived leg day,” you now know what to look for, what to avoid, and which brands actually live up to the hype.
Next move: bookmark this guide, hit the links above, and snag the pieces that make you feel like the main character in your own workout montage.
Go get ’em, athlete!
📝 Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to Women’s Workout Clothes
After diving deep into the world of women’s workout clothes, we can confidently say: activewear is no longer just gym gear—it’s a lifestyle statement. Whether you’re chasing a marathon PR, mastering your downward dog, or just rocking the athleisure look on your coffee run, the right gear makes all the difference.
Positives Across the Board:
- Innovative fabrics like Lululemon’s Nulux™ and Girlfriend Collective’s Econyl® offer breathability, stretch, and sustainability.
- Size inclusivity has improved dramatically, with brands like Girlfriend Collective and Athleta leading the charge.
- Versatility means your workout clothes can double as streetwear, saving closet space and boosting style points.
- Durability is better than ever, especially with premium brands like Splits 59 and Sweaty Betty, which withstand hundreds of washes without losing shape or color.
Challenges to Keep in Mind:
- Premium brands often come with premium price tags, so budget-conscious shoppers should explore mid-tier options like Vuori or Amazon Essentials.
- Sizing can vary widely between brands, so trying on or checking detailed size guides is essential.
- Some fabrics require special care to maintain longevity—read those washing instructions!
Final Recommendation:
For all-around performance, style, and sustainability, Lululemon and Athleta remain our top picks. If comfort and casual vibes are your jam, Vuori will feel like a second skin. For those prioritizing eco-conscious choices and size inclusivity, Girlfriend Collective is a game-changer.
Remember that the best workout clothes are the ones that make you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to crush your goals. So, gear up, get moving, and enjoy every sweaty, stylish step of your fitness journey!
🔗 Recommended Links for Further Reading and Shopping
CHECK PRICE on top workout clothes and brands:
- Lululemon: Amazon | Lululemon Official Website
- Athleta: Amazon | Athleta Official Website
- Vuori: Amazon | Vuori Official Website
- Girlfriend Collective: Girlfriend Official Website
- Nike: Amazon | Nike Official Website
- Splits 59: Splits 59 Official Website
- Amazon Essentials: Amazon
- Adanola: Adanola Official Website
- FP Movement (Free People): Free People Official Website
- Alo Yoga: Alo Yoga Official Website
Books to deepen your activewear knowledge:
- “Athleisure: The Rise of Performance Fashion” by Emily Spivack — Amazon Link
- “The Science of Sportswear Fabrics” by Dr. Sarah Johnson — Amazon Link
❓ FAQ: Answering Your Burning Questions About Women’s Workout Clothes
What are the best brands for women’s workout clothes?
The best brands depend on your priorities:
- Performance & innovation: Lululemon and Athleta lead with proprietary fabrics and thoughtful design.
- Comfort & casual wear: Vuori nails the cozy, versatile vibe.
- Sustainability & inclusivity: Girlfriend Collective offers eco-friendly fabrics and a broad size range.
- Budget-friendly: Amazon Essentials and CRZ Yoga provide solid basics without breaking the bank.
- Style & trendiness: Nike and Alo Yoga dominate with fresh drops and influencer appeal.
Each brand has its unique strengths, so consider your workout type, budget, and style preferences.
Read more about “What is Athleisure for Men? 2025 Guide 👟”
What are the most popular types of women’s athletic wear?
The most popular categories include:
- Sports bras (high, medium, low impact) tailored to activity intensity.
- Leggings and tights with compression and moisture-wicking properties.
- Bike shorts for warm-weather workouts and casual wear.
- Tanks and crop tops designed for breathability and layering.
- Outerwear like hoodies and zip-ups for warm-ups and cool-downs.
- Joggers and track pants for travel and rest days.
These staples cover a wide range of activities and style needs.
Read more about “What Is the Newest Sports Brand? Top 10 Game-Changers of 2025 🏆”
How do I choose the right women’s workout clothes for my body type?
Choosing the right workout clothes involves:
- Understanding your shape: High-rise leggings flatter most body types by supporting the core; mid-rise suits those with longer torsos.
- Fit preferences: Compression fits offer muscle support but can feel restrictive; relaxed fits provide freedom but less shaping.
- Support needs: Larger busts require high-impact sports bras with wide straps and adjustable bands.
- Comfort: Look for flat-lock seams and tagless designs to avoid irritation.
- Try before you buy: Different brands fit differently; use size charts and customer reviews to guide you.
Read more about “Discover 10 Must-Have Athleisure Wear Pieces for Women! 🏃♀️”
What features should I look for when buying high-quality women’s athletic apparel?
Look for these features:
- Fabric technology: Moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and breathable fabrics like nylon blends with elastane/spandex.
- Durability: Reinforced stitching and fade-resistant dyes ensure longevity.
- Fit & support: Wide waistbands, adjustable straps, and compression zones improve comfort and performance.
- Sustainability: Certifications like bluesign® or use of recycled materials indicate eco-conscious production.
- Versatility: Pieces that transition from workout to casual wear maximize wardrobe value.
Read more about “Discover the 35 Best Clothing Brands for Sports! 🏅”
📚 Reference Links and Sources
- Business Insider: The 9 Best Workout Clothes for Women in 2025, Tested by a Fitness Gear Expert
- WomensHealthMag: Best Workout Clothes for Women
- Girlfriend Collective Official
- Lululemon Official
- Athleta Official
- Nike Official
- Splits 59 Official
- Vuori Official
- Bluesign® System
- Guppyfriend Washing Bag
- Amazon Essentials Activewear
- Fashion and Athletic Crossover – Athletic Brands™
- Athletic Brand Guides – Athletic Brands™
- Brand Spotlights – Athletic Brands™
