The 23 Best Activewear Brands of 2025, According to Fitness Experts

What to Keep in Mind

• Materials: Because your activewear has to withstand sweaty workouts and a range of movements, its composition is of the utmost importance. “Most of my activewear is made from materials like polyester, nylon, and Lycra. These fabrics are lightweight, breathable, and durable while also being form-fitting,” says Andriello, who tends to avoid cotton for high-intensity workouts since it’s not as absorbent. Your activewear also clings to your skin, so it’s wise to ensure it’s gentle and well-made. Richardson always checks that her pieces are nontoxic and eco-friendly, made from breathable, sustainable materials. “It’s important to me when possible to choose fabrics that are gentle on the body and the planet,” she tells InStyle. Temperature and humidity also come into play. Avoid heavy, non-absorbent materials if you’re in hot weather (or a hot studio). “I don’t like to wear anything fleecy when I’m training or anything that might make me hot. I like to feel as free as possible,” says celebrity stylist and art director Jay Hines. 
• Fit: Activewear that bunches, loosens with wear, or doesn’t sit right can sabotage even the most avid gym-goer’s workout. It should be the right balance between tight and loose, supportive but not restrictive. Check the site’s size guide, read reviews, and consider your own specific preferences and needs. “For tops and bras, support is key for me since I have a bigger chest and need to feel really secure, especially when I’m teaching,” says Andriello. “Of course, the support I need also depends on the kind of workout I’m doing and/or teaching.”
• Colors: The hues you wear to practice yoga, run, or stretch are a matter of personal preference. Nonetheless, they can elevate your style. “I gravitate toward Earth-tone colors,” says Richardson. “They feel grounding and exude luxury and sophistication, making them a timeless choice for both performance and style. As Andriello points out, neutral tones are easy to mix and match with the rest of your wardrobe. But if you love a pop of color, go forth with Hines’s approval. “Wear different colors—like purple, light greens, browns and whites, or pale yellows—to give yourself a stand-out look,” he says. 
• Activity: Not all movements call for the same activewear. For example, you’d wear completely different garments to run sprints on the track versus going on a leisurely coffee walk. “Most of the classes I teach are high-impact, like HIIT, plyometrics, and spin, so I usually go for clothes with compression, especially for my sports bra or top, just to keep everything secure,” says Andriello. “Comfort is still key, though! But when I’m doing something like Pilates or yoga, I’m more relaxed and tend to go for a looser-fitting bra.” Also, consider where you’ll be doing the workout. If you’re hitting an indoor gym, the temperature will be different than a jog on a sweltering day. During the colder months, Hines wears tights, shorts, and a long-sleeve top, whereas he goes with just a vest and shorts when the temperature rises.

Your Questions, Answered

What are some of the biggest activewear trends of 2025?

Activewear trends cycle in and out of style. As for what’s coming in 2025, Hines has his eye on colors. “It’s been a trend for years, but I’m seeing everybody wearing sets that match their phone case and sneakers and things like that. I like to try to mix up my colors at times to throw people off,” he says.

It’s not new, but people are taking their activewear outside of the gym. “Activewear trends are all about mixing workout clothes with athleisure,” says Andriello. “People want to feel confident wearing their gym gear out and about, whether they’re heading to the gym or just running errands. It’s all about throwing on a cute layer over your sports bra that you can easily take off once you start sweating.” Hence, the bolero, wrap, and half-tops that have crept up everywhere.

More and more brands are moving toward inclusive, sustainably made offerings. “Expect activewear that prioritizes both sustainability and striking aesthetics, utilizing eco-friendly fabrics, ethical manufacturing, and recycled materials. After all, old water bottles and fishing nets look better on you than they do, clogging landfills and polluting oceans,” says Richardson.

How you can showcase your personal style with activewear?

With so much to think about (Does my activewear fit correctly? Am I comfortable? Is it right for the specific activity I’m about to do?), your personal fashion aesthetic can take a backseat. But you can style your movement-focused pieces with just as much detail and attention as you would give your everyday clothes.

One way to do that? Layering. “It’s one of my favorite techniques for showcasing personal style, but accessorizing is key. I love pairing simple activewear sets with Bon Bon Jewelry Club’s crystal necklaces, especially for yoga and breathwork sessions,” says Richardson.

Add an edge to your activewear by pairing it with unexpected pieces. “Get creative by mixing your streetwear with your workout gear. For example, I’ll pair my leggings and sports bra with an oversized T-shirt, a jean jacket, and maybe a fun trucker hat or some cool socks,” says Andriello. “It’s also about finding accessories you love—those little touches can really change the game and take your outfit to the next level.”

What’s the difference between activewear and athleisure?

Admittedly, the line between activewear and athleisure can be murky, but there is a difference between the two categories. “Activewear is all about functionality and high-performance for workouts. Some athleisure pieces might not be great for intense workouts, but they’re perfect for wearing to and from the gym,” says Andriello. As we said, the distinction isn’t always obvious. “People are definitely blurring the lines between the two. They want activewear that’s comfortable and functional for workouts but also stylish enough to wear all day.”

There aren’t hard and fast rules. As long as you feel good moving in a piece, it’s fair game. “One of my favorite fashion pieces is a Hermès equestrian poncho—would I wear it while riding? Absolutely not,” says Richardson. “I also have a carabiner hanging on my beach bag, but I’ve never been rock climbing. Fashion is about exploration and fun, so take the parts that work for you and enjoy.”

Why Shop With Us

Claudia Willen is an associate editor at InStyle, where she covers the latest fashion and beauty trends. An avid runner, yogi, and gym-goer, she tested out countless activewear brands, from stalwarts that have been around for decades to small, emerging labels. For this story, she surveyed the InStyle team about their tried-and-true activewear brands and interviewed the following experts:

• Chloe Richardson is a London-based celebrity stylist. 
• Jay Hines is a celebrity stylist and art director. 
• Gabby Andriello is a former ballet dancer and current fitness instructor. She teaches at SotoMethod, Housework, and SoulCycle.

Summer Cartwright is InStyle’s senior wellness editor. She’s a three-time marathoner who runs 20-50 miles each week and is an RRCA-certified running coach and ASFA-certified cycling instructor.