Fact: No one likes fussing with a rolled-up waistband that won’t stay put, fixing annoying straps, or adjusting uncomfortable sneakers while at the gym (or even on a walk around the neighborhood). If you’re like me and you look for any excuse to leave a workout early, having the right kind of clothes and shoes is absolutely essential. That’s why we’ve rounded up 23 of the best Amazon workout clothes for ya—so you never have to waste your precious workout time (and $$$) on less-than-average activewear.
Whether you’re a gym rat or just love wearing athleisure around the house (mood), we’ve gathered all the exercise clothing you’ll need to feel comfortable and supported during your workouts. That way, you can stay focused on whatever rep or set you’re doing and not have to worry about your pants being see-through (which has happened to me more than I’d like to admit).
Some people who tested these products went on literal marathons, which is the most impressive thing of all time—and some people wore them to work from home (Zoom camera OFF), which is also a fabulous use of these comfy clothes. I do workouts that range from low-intensity (think: barre and pilates) to high-intensity (jumping squats and burpees, hello!), and these picks can move with me no matter what I’m doing.
Our top picks for the best workout clothes for women:
Ahead, the best leggings and sweatpants (yup, including a certain TikTok-famous pair of leggings), sneakers, sports bras, workout tops, and more. Whether you spend your workouts running outdoors, stretching at home to YouTube videos, or lifting heavy at the gym, you’ll definitely find a piece or two on this list to make workouts way more enjoyable.
1. These Soft Sneakers
Thanks to the soft insole and cushiony knit, these running sneakers will have you feeling like you’re walking (er, running) on clouds. The fact that they come in a few cool color combos doesn’t hurt either.
Glowing Review: “Love these running shoes! This is the third pair I’ve ordered. The quality is great and I love the style. Adidas have always been my favorite running shoes because they are wider than Nikes (and I have big feet).”
2. These Quick-Drying Shorts
Before you scroll past these quick-drying, lightweight Under Armour shorts, let me inform you that they have 4.7 stars and over 15,300 positive reviews on Amazon. Not to mention, these beauts are available in several colors to match whatever your workout ~vibe~ is.
Glowing Review: “Hands down my new favorite pair of running shorts. They are so comfortable, lightweight and fit just as expected!! I am 5’8” and 155 lbs and medium fit me perfectly and aren’t too short!“
3. This Workout Top With Built-In Bra
Is it a crop top or a sports bra? Trick question! It’s both! Wear this workout top—which has removable pads for light support—to the gym, then wear it out as a top with your friends. But like, wash it in between, k?
Glowing Review: “The material is thick and supportive. Tbh I’m surprised how good the material is for only $20. I’m totally going to be purchasing more. SIZE UP FOR SURE. Also you can totally wear this daily, you would never know it’s gym material.”
4. This Color-Block Bra
For a trendier option with just a lil bit of support, allow me to introduce you to this gorgeous Tory Burch bra. It’s definitely cute enough to wear while running errands or grabbing coffee any day of the week (and it kinda makes you look like a cheerleader!).
5. These Slim-Fit Sweats
This pair of lightweight joggers made from a soft, stretchy, non-see-through fabric is perfect for a jog, but they’re also great for yoga, pilates, or just running errands. With over 72,000(!!) positive reviews and over 150(!!) colors, a lot of people who tested them ended up buying multiple pairs.
Glowing Review: “Imagine microfiber, how its light and has a smooth texture, and then imagine if microfiber and velvet had a baby. This is that baby! Its light and smooth like microfiber, but also has some of the warmth and texture (not *quite* fuzzy, but holds warmth still). VERY comparable to suede.”
6. These Stretch Capris
If you get warm easily (same), you’re gonna want to snag a pair of these capri leggings, STAT. With a wide waistband and some added spandex for stretch, plus a wide size range (1X to 5X!), you’ll probably end up living in these.
Glowing Review: “Fit perfectly, went for a 5-mile bike ride my first time wearing them, and they stayed perfectly in place and didn’t get too hot. They look super cute too!”
7. These Versatile Bike Shorts
Found: The *perfect* high-waist bike shorts. They’re stretchy but not sheer, comfy but controlled, and perfect for wearing out or while working out. Also, psssst, they come in black, too.
Glowing Review: “They hug my curves perfectly, good quality and don’t make my thighs look like the circulation is being cut off.”
8. This Medium Support Bra
This bra right here is built for gym workouts and light running—so you can definitely get away with wearing it during your daily workouts (and, you know, around the house, obv). It’s got a ton of inclusive sizing, and reviewers say this is the first bra in a looooong time that made them feel supported.
Glowing Review: “This bra is heaven on earth. I’ve tried so many bras. I’m a 36F and it’s damn impossible to find anything that fits correctly. This bra makes me feel like Jason Momoa is gently clasping my boobs, providing support and comfort only he can give.”
9. These Compression Leggings
If you like your workout clothes to offer support and control, these compression leggings are *it*. The thick fabric and supportive waistband make these leggings totally squat-proof, but the sweat-wicking material means you’ll still stay cool throughout your sesh.
Glowing Review: “It has just the right amount of compression and not thin. I took my first run in them two days ago and they felt great along with doing body weight exercises and they did not slide down either. I would definitely buy more in the future, when needed.”
10. These TikTok-Famous Leggings
You’ve 100 percent heard of these leggings if you’ve spent any time at all on TikTok. But if you still have yet to buy a pair, this is your sign to get on that. Almost 60,000 Amazon shoppers swear that these leggings will make your peach look extra peachy—and they’re squat-proof, too.
Glowing Review: “Girl if you’re looking at these leggings, just do yourself a favor and get them! They have me looking SNATCHED!!! You hear me? If you order your ACTUAL CORRECT size, they will fit nice…If you wanna squeeze into a size you got no business being in, don’t try to squat or bend over in these because it will be see thru-ish. I am 5’7 and 194 lbs on a good day, I ordered the XL. Now stop reading these comments and go get you a pair or 7 like I did sis 😉”
11. These Compression Shorts
These high-waist compression shorts have 4.3 stars and more than 75,000 reviews. Yep, you read that right. Seventy. Five. Thousand. Between the hidden adjustable drawstring waistband, two big side pockets, and hidden waistband pocket, we can see why they’re a favorite.
Glowing Review: “I wore them for the first time during a 10K race (took a chance) and they served me well. The high waist keeps my tummy in place. The 8″ inseam is a comfortable length on my thighs—not too short or long. The legs didn’t ride up either. The pockets were perfect for my big phone—a Samsung J7…Perfect thickness of fabric—passed the squat test (not see-through when squatting). Several of my runner friends were interested in them for themselves…I imagine I’ll purchase a few more pairs as I train for my marathon.”
12. This Sleeveless Top
If you prefer wearing airy tanks over fitted shirts to work out (same), this top with breathable fabric will help you stay cool and not stuck to clingy fabric. Sizes include 1X through 3X and come in a few colors to match your leggings.
Glowing Review: “I have purchased many name brand workout tanks from Adidas, Nike, Under Armour, etc. and as a plus size lady, they never fit right. Either the arm holes are too big, it’s not flattering in the tummy area, or too short. This tank is PERFECT. Perfect arm holes, perfect length, extremely flattering in the back and tummy area. I purchased the olive one and buying more now!”
13. This Bamboo Sports Bra
If you loved the Boody Shaper Bra (you’re not alone, all the celebs do too) but need something with a tad more support for your low-impact workouts, pick up this sports bra version. Its got everything you love about the shaper bra—bamboo viscose fabric to help you stay cool, no uncomfy underwire or clips—but with a little more structure, thanks to removable padding and four-way stretch.
Glowing Review: “I really like this bra a lot! Yes, a little expensive but it is the only bra that doesn’t make my skin itch, so it is well worth it to me. Medium support but I wear mine every day so I hate a bra that binds too much, and my main activity is yoga.”
14. This Loose Tank Top
You won’t get overheated while running in this racerback tank designed with super-deep armholes and made with moisture-wicking, lightweight, and breathable fabric. Did we mention you get a whole pack of three in different colors when you buy one?
Glowing Review: “LOVE LOVE LOVE these tanks! They are exactly as expected and pictured. I order size small, they fit perfectly. I am 5’7”, 140 lb with a 34B bust normally I wear small/medium clothing. I got these tanks for working out but they’re cute enough to wear around casually too!”
15. These Breezy Running Shorts
Amazon reviewers love these running shorts for the ultra-wide waistband that helps them stay in place for the whole ride. So whether you’re hitting the treadmill or the sidewalk, these are a must.
Glowing Review: “I have had these for several months now and they are my favorite!!…I’m 5’4” 130ish and the small is perfect. They are comfy, the perfect length, flattering and come in great colors. I got tired of washing these all the time so I just ordered every color and can’t wait to get them!!”
16. This Workout Set
Sucker for a matching set? You’ll love this crop top and legging duo. You’re gonna be so obsessed with it that you’ll want it in all the colors. (And there are a lot.)
Glowing Review: “Just started going to the gym and I wanted to “feel cute” while working out. It’s very comfortable and thick. I’m tall and it covers my ankle, love that for me. I bent over and squatted, it didn’t move. I’m usually a size 12 in bottoms so I got the Large.”
17. This Fully Supportive Sports Bra
Raise your hand if you currently wear two sports bra at once. Well, now you don’t have to because this wire-free sports bra with a high neckline, adjustable straps, and hook-and-eye closure provides all the support with none of the bounce or spillage.
Glowing Review: “This bra is the best sport bra I’ve ever had and the most comfortable bra I’ve ever worn. I’m a 35H. I spend my life looking for a good one. I found it. I wear it as often as I can, even when I’m not working out. It holds my shape perfectly. No bulging under the arms or on the back. No boob slip during exercise. And I can breath while my breasts are perfectly stable.”
18. These High-Waist Yoga Pants
These leggings have not one, not two, but three pockets that are made with soft, opaque fabric, and come in a million different colors. What’s not to love?!
Glowing Review: “IUGA pants are everything—they are perfect, they stretch 4 different ways so I can bend and squat and kneel and lift easily with no restrictions or material pulling in certain places and not in others. The pockets are great too, most people could probably put [their] phone in them, which trust me it will fit, I use the pockets to hold my utility knife and keys. They are very durable, as I lift wooden pallets up using my legs and not once have they torn or even frayed.”
19. This Long-Sleeve Workout Top
Just because it’s long-sleeve doesn’t mean you’re gonna burn up wearing this crop top. Made with a lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking fabric, this top will help you stay cool and controlled during your workouts.
Glowing Review: “I wear a 36DD and was worried this was going to fit weird. I absolutely love this top! It’s perfect for the gym and makes my arms look smaller than they are with just as much comfort!”
20. These Ankle-Length Leggings
If you find yourself rolling up the bottoms of your leggings but don’t want to do a cropped pant, go with something in between, like a 7/8 length. These leggings have 4.2 stars and a lot of happy customers who rave about the quality, fit, and affordable price.
Glowing Review: “Being plus size, I am always afraid to buy leggings on Amazon. BUT I am so happy with this purchase. The 2x fits great! I am about 270, 5’5, 4 months postpartum. These are so comfy to wear every day and the pockets are so convenient!”
21. These Sneakers for Squats
Do you even lift?! If you do, then you definitely need a pair of classic Chucks next time you step up to the squat rack. The ankle support and flat soles make them *chef’s kiss* when lifting heavy. (FYI, these come in a bunch of colors but can sell out fast, so if they’re not avail in the size you want, bookmark this page.)
Glowing Review: “I love these shoes! The leather is such a nice touch and makes them more unique than the standard Chuck. They’re tremendously comfortable and the leather of course can be wiped clean, which is another great feature. The first day I wore them to the gym I got tons of compliments. I’d recommend!”
22. These Top-Rated Yoga Pants
You might know these as a dupe for a much more expensive pair of yoga pants, but soon you’ll just know them as your favorite yoga pants. They feel like you’re wearing nothing but still keep you fully covered with opaque fabric—it’s easy to see how they’re a No. 1 bestseller.
Glowing Review: “These leggings 100 percent live up to the hype! They are incredibly comfortable and fit perfectly, providing just the right amount of compression and stretch. [For reference, I am a size 4 in Lululemon leggings—5’4″/115lbs—and the XS fit like a glove.] They appear to be very well constructed, based off the quality of fabric and stitching.”
23. This Racerback Tank
Never have to worry about putting on a bra with this tank that comes with a built-in bra. It can even double up as a top too if you have to head somewhere after your workout.
What clothes are best for working out?
It depends on the type of exercise and intensity! Obviously huge caveat here: Whatever makes you feel adequately covered and comfortably supported is right for you. Sometimes you need to experiment—one pair of shorts that’s perfect for a quick jog is not the pick for a 5k, but you might not know that until you try. Also, beyond checking the reviews, the product description will often tell you the intensity level of exercise it’s designed for.
Low-impact exercise
Leggings and a fitted top can work beautifully here (as opposed to shorts, which might ride up or—even more fun—flash someone). I learned this the hard way during my first barre class, where the focus is flexibility and movement. This is the place to potentially show off a lil fashion without worrying about whether the clothes can keep up.
Medium-impact exercise
You can split the difference here: If you wanna go with a two-piece set, you can probably get away with it, but we’re starting to get into the territory of “activity can make clothes bunch and slide up.” Wear something that’s more breathable—nothing that’s made of all cotton, in other words—with some spandex or stretchy material built in. Choose shorts with an inner lining so you can skip the undies and still feel supported.
High-impact exercise
Break out the heavy-duty stuff here: The super-supportive, holds-everything-in-place sports bra. The shorts or leggings that don’t budge and wick sweat away. The top that absolutely will not ride up no many how many jumping jacks you do. If the product has descriptive words like “for heavy/intense exercise,” then you’re on the right track. Also, you’re probably gonna be shelling out more for the good stuff.
What should I wear or not wear to the gym?
Um, same caveat as above! There are no hard and fast rules here (beyond the rules set by the gym), but there are a few best practices that might make you feel comfortable while you break a sweat.
Don’t wear your fashion sneakers
Really invest in footwear: Trust me. The majority of my exercise-related injuries either happened because I was wearing old, worn-out footwear, or because I wasn’t properly stretching before and after. The good news is, most brands will tell you which shoes they recommend for which intensity, and you can go to a running store to be fitted for your specific needs.
Don’t just wear your regular clothes
I mean—this one should be obvious, but the number of people I’ve seen exercising in jeans would surprise you. Obviously you can wear regular clothes to the gym, but a standard bra won’t support you. Your clothes, especially your pants, won’t allow for much flexibility. You’re probably going to sweat at least a little, even if it’s low-intensity work, and you don’t want to walk around the rest of the day feeling…damp.
Don’t go for low-impact outfits if you’re gonna level up
If you don’t know how intense your workout is gonna be (especially with a new gym), anticipate you might run, jump, or otherwise move around. Breaking out your most fashionable matching set is great, but you don’t wanna be tugging at it every 30 seconds. A cool, strappy sports bra is fine for yoga, but not so much for something more movement-heavy.
Don’t forget the squat test
Stand in front of a mirror in your leggings with some strong overhead lighting. Bend allllll the way down in a deep squat. Can you see skin/your underwear through your leggings? This is really just to make sure the material is opaque enough to do heavy exercising without accidentally flashing anyone. And again, my lighter leggings are great for barre but *so bad* for high-intensity exercise.
Here’s how we chose all these cute selects.
Cosmo‘s fashion team is constantly curating the internet to bring you the chicest, trendiest options like it’s our job (because it is, heh).
We have pretty high standards when it comes to clothing and accessory recommendations. Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don’t have to. You’re welcome!
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