Finding fashionable clothing for the gym is not a difficult task nowadays. Nonetheless, no matter how stylish the clothing is, it is essential to understand what fabrics and materials are best for working out.
There is no point in looking good when going to the gym if your performance will be compromised by the garments you wear, either because they are not resistant or not breathable enough.
The right activewear can make you (and it should) feel comfortable, motivated, and focused on your workout routine. That is why it is so vital that you choose suitable fabrics and pay attention to the following details before making any purchase.
Choose the Right Fabrics
All gym clothes, from tops to bottoms, should have moisture-wicking properties. This means the fabric will keep the sweat away from your body while keeping you fresh and dry underneath the surface.
Synthetic fabrics such as polyester and Lycra are moisture-absorbent, and you can also find them blended with other materials. They are usually more expensive than a regular cotton t-shirt, but they will perform well during your workout.
Polyester and Lycra not only last longer, but they dry faster, too. Heavy-weight cotton t-shirts should be avoided at all costs, as they won’t do any good for you in this situation and only make you sweat unnecessarily.
Moreover, you must opt for materials that are elastic and stretchy as well. Look for activewear made of nylon-elastane mix so that the fabric won’t restrain you and it will provide you with freedom of movement.
Another alternative is cotton blended with spandex and nylon, a combination often found in gym shorts and similar bottoms.
When in doubt about a fabric, ensure it is sweat-wicking, stretchable, and allows airflow. These three factors are the main essence of any piece of activewear.
DOs and DON’Ts
When it comes to style, the gym is one of those places where less is better. There is not much to explain here, but this: you need to be comfortable and ready to sweat it out, and a bunch of layers certainly won’t make the task easy.
Another observation you need to know about is that the gym is where you should always, without exception, prioritize functionality and comfort over fashion trends. It doesn’t mean you can’t be stylish when working out.
But remember that you shouldn’t avoid wearing compression tights, for example, only because you feel they are not trendy. If they are necessary for not getting hurt, wear them at all costs.
When purchasing activewear, your main goal is to make it last for many years, and to do so, we recommend you do two things. First, you should opt for timeless silhouettes and neutral colors, such as dark blue, gray or black.
Avoid falling for fleeting trends like bright colors or intricate patterns that people will be over with by the end of the season, especially if you are working on a tight budget. Neutral colors provide you with versatility and make it easier for you to match and pair your activewear in different ways and styles.
In case you are interested, these are the fashion trends for the Fall/Winter season.
On the other hand, the second thing you want to do is to read the label tags on your garments carefully. Workout clothing tends to be highly technical as it needs
to provide you with functionality, so the cleaning instructions are often very specific.
Carefully pay attention to the washing and drying instructions on the garment’s tag to make them last longer. Moreover, all your activewear, from your socks to your top, should be washed daily or after every workout.
Jewelry is an element you should stay away from when going to the gym. Any kind of accessories, including your wedding ring, are unnecessary and unsafe, as they could get stuck on a machine or result in minor injuries from the hit. Many don’t know this, but sweat can also react with the machines’ metal and cause an allergic reaction.
Last but not least, workout clothing should always be fit and slim. Wearing garments that are too big or loose could compromise your performance and affect their functionality. You need to consider your activewear as a second skin that will support and protect you.
But again, tight does not mean restrained; you should be able to move freely in your workout gear. Speaking of fit, in this article, you’ll find how to dress appropriately based on your body type.
Working out during summer and winter
Going to the gym is an all-year-round activity, and none of us should compromise our workout session because it’s too cold or hot outside. Luckily, techwear has come a long way, and there are plenty of options to try on for working out in the harshest weather conditions.
For example, a windbreaker is a must-have option during warmer days. It’s lightweight, will keep you cool during your workout, and will protect you from the wind hitting your upper body.
On the other hand, it is necessary to keep your body warm during winter, particularly when you’re sweating it out. A thin shell gilet, for example, is the perfect solution for this situation. Any other thicker alternative might make you
feel too hot during your workout. But once again, you should always look for the best option.
Function, comfort, and performance are the core values you should remember when shopping for activewear. On a similar note, you should read this article if you are looking to stay warm and stylish in winter.
