I work out a lot, which means I sweat a lot. That’s why exercise dresses, the latest athleisure trend, have my full attention. I mean, how could a pantless, moisture-wicking one-piece that I can wear to CrossFit one moment and brunch the next not spark my interest, especially with temperatures soaring? Although nothing new, the star of the tennis-core aesthetic is popping up in styles that are just too cute to ignore, enticing me to invest in one or several exercise dresses this season. Here’s a look at my top picks that will pass any eye or wear test with flying colors.
Abercrombie & Fitch YPB SculptLUX Slash Mini Dress
If you’re a shapewear enthusiast, Abercrombie and Fitch’s Active Mini Dress is a must-have. Crafted from comfy sculptLUX active fabric, this dress is designed to hold you in, ensuring a flattering and supportive fit.
If you want eco-friendly activewear that still pulls out all the stops in the comfort and performance department, Girlfriend Collective has offerings that check the box, like this racerback dress. Reimagined from recycled water bottles and spandex, you can toss it on for the gym and whatever the day may bring.
If you bought this exercise dress in every color (it comes in five!), I would understand. It’s the basic piece that your wardrobe has been missing—crafted from moisture-wicking, soft jersey fabric, it’s bound to become your go-to.
The Outdoor Voices Exercise Dress is designed to accompany you through anything. It’s flexible, breathable, and available in nine colors. What’s more to love? Built-in shorts, pockets, adjustable straps, and a racerback design for added comfort and style.
Here’s one for the girl who’s a sucker for soft and stretchy things. Its peachy-soft material wicks away moisture, and a blend of polyester and spandex gives it plenty of stretch.
You’ll appreciate all the little details that make this exercise dress a bestseller: its front zipper, A-line silhouette, contour seaming, and a fit that’s true to size.
Many pieces from Beyond Yoga can be worn beyond your workout session. This particular selection has a modest square neckline and side slit. If you have lunch plans after your workout, simply pair it with strappy sandals and you’re ready to go.
Anyway, January is also the start to a very important season for people trying to go after their goals. Maybe it’s just introducing more activity into their lifestyle after being a couch potato in 2024 or working out multiple times during the week to lose weight; the gyms are crowded, the trails are filling up with walkers and joggers, and the Peloton bikes are spinning. We love to see it!
A part of staying consistent with that, though, is feeling good. And what feels better for a woman new or seasoned to movement than comfortable workout bottoms? For those with a bit more hip, butt, thigh, or stomach (or a combination of all of four), the right pair of athletic pants is a game-changer. The wrong pair? It will make you want to stay in the house to avoid unintentionally showing way too much skin while simply trying to break a sweat. That’s no good.
Below are seven different pairs of leggings, joggers, and more that are available at vastly different price points, but all get rave reviews for their comfort, their ability to flatter, and their support in the effort to go after our resolutions with confidence this year. Happy exercising, ladies!
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adidas Optime 3-Stripes 1/4 Short Leggings
For weightlifters who need bottoms that will stay in place during those deep front squats and deadlifts, the German sportswear brand has your back with these chic shorts. They are built with squat-proof coverage, keeping the bottoms in place as you get to work, thanks to a high waistband, four-way stretch and technology that wicks away sweat. If you’re shy about working out in shorts, the Optime full-length leggings are also a must in your collection ($65).
When you’re looking for something in between a tight and sweatpants, joggers are the answer. Perfect for a literal jog or for, really, anything you’re ready to work up your heart rate for, customers laud these affordable bottoms for their flattering fit and, most importantly, their comfort.
Nike’s Plus Size collection has been quite popular since launching in 2017. One of their highest-rated items right now are these Nike Zenvy high-waisted leggings, which customers rave over for not being so restrictive while still offering support. Fewer pockets create less bulk (though there is a drop pocket in the back for essentials), they are squat-proof, and women say there is a stretch in the waistband, perfect if you have a belly.
With reportedly more than 1,000 pairs bought within the last month, these workout pants are selling like hotcakes on Amazon. Those who’ve bought them say the pants look very cute on (as in flattering, which is certainly a confidence boost), they appreciate the pockets and say for the price, they’re a good quality pair of bottoms.
Said to be a top-rated bottom, customers do seem to be impressed with these joggers from CRZ YOGA. What’s to rave about? Customers say they have a flattering fit and are comfortable. The fabric is breathable by being lightweight, but there’s no concern about or accusations of see-through or flimsy material.
With a perfect five-star rating, customers say these high-rise leggings from SPANX, a brand that knows how to smooth things out, are a win. They are touted for being supportive, having a great stretch, being soft, and fitting like a glove. No constant tugging and pulling, perfect for your workout and all-day wear on an errand day. They go up to a size 3X, so there’s something for everyone.
The girls love these bottoms by CALIA because they say they’re flattering no matter your shape, and they’re quite cozy to wear for extended periods. The compression also gets a thumbs up, and customers say the high-waist band doesn’t fall. As for the flare at the bottom, it’s not a large one, so no, you won’t look like a disco queen at the gym.