Sure, the baggy sweats and t-shirt you’ve worn since high school gym class might be comfortable for lounging, but they might not be the most functional workout wardrobe. They also probably don’t make you look and feel your best or make you look forward to exercising.
We rounded up our favorite, most comfortable workout clothes for 2022. From the materials to the cut, fit, and colors, everything about these pieces is designed to flatter your form while effortlessly flowing with your movement, and lifestyle. We’ve curated this list in the order of bottoms, bras, and tops for your ease of discovery.
Which of these clothes would make your fitness routine more focused and more you?
1. Excel Women’s Workout Shorts
Our super stretchy and carefree Excel Workout Shorts allow a wide range of motion while providing a medium level of coverage.
Best For
- Field training
- Running and intense workouts
- The gym
- Workouts at home
- Outdoor activities
- Everyday
Features
- Interior waist drawcord
- Discreet waistband stash pocket
- Fabric that stretches in four directions
- 5-inch inseam
Why Customers Love It
Christina says, “I have 7 pairs of these shorts and they fit me perfectly. I’ve run 5ks, CrossFit workouts, yard work, trips to grocery store, almost everything in these shorts. I also like that there is no liner.”
Get it here.
2. Indie Women’s Sport Shorts
A traditional athletic short with a classic look and next-gen feel, the Indie Sport Short is built to give female athletes top-tier comfort and coverage.
Best For
- Field training
- The gym
Features
- High rise
- Four-way stretch fabric
- Wide, stable waistband
- Interior waist drawcord
- 5.5-inch inseam
Why Customers Love It
Cherry says, “Finally mid length shorts that don’t cause chub rub/ride up! Cool colors and classic piping detail. Look flattering and feel lightweight and super comfy.”
Get it here.
3. Fast & Free Women’s Crossfit Shorts
Fast & Free Women’s Crossfit Shorts are our shortest option for the ultimate freedom to move. The woman-centric design gives this short a body-skimming fit that doesn’t bunch up or restrict.
Best For
- Your most intense workouts
- Wide range-of-motion activities
- Field training
- Going for a run outdoors
- The gym
- At-home workouts
- Everyday
Features
- Low rise for comfort and minimal shifting
- Wide, stay-put waistband with soft fabric, interior drawstring and stash pocket
- Four-way stretch fabric
- Breathable brief liner with smooth seams
- 3-inch inseam
Why Customers Love It
Courtney D. wrote, “I always struggle to find a good pair of athletic shorts. These are SO comfortable and I don’t feel I have to tug on them! Just the right length and they don’t ride up, and they stay covering my booty! I bought 2, and deciding what color to be my next pair.”
Get it here.
4. Triple-V Training Short
The meaning behind the Triple V Training Short’s name is veni (she came), vidi (she saw), vici (she conquered). It’s crafted with adaptability as the number one priority.
Best For
- Coaching or training
- Light physical activity
- Everyday
Features
- Mid-rise
- Loose but flattering fit
- Double-layered, soft fabric waistband with internal drawcord
- Two front pockets and one zippered back pocket
- 4-inch inseam
Why Customers Love It
Customer Becky T. says, “Really love how they fit, true to size and so comfy for coaching in. The pockets are an amazing add on to store everything I need whilst on the field!”
Get it here.
5. Sheva Women’s High Rise Running Shorts
The Sheva High Rise Running Short is perfect for women who are into running, one of the best workouts to try at home.
Best For
- Field training
- Running
- The gym
- Everyday
Features
- High-rise
- Soft fabric and flattering, body-skimming fit on hips and legs
- Lay-flat knit waistband with interior stash pocket
- Stretchy, breathable mesh liner
- Zippered side pocket
- 3.5-inch inseam
Why Customers Love It
Diane says, “Have purchased many Goal Five shorts and the new Sheva is just what I’d hoped for — liner especially. I like the pleated legs and wide waistband, good for pickleball. Size is great.”
Get it here.
6. Slide Force Women’s Spandex Shorts
When slide tackles and ground contact ratchet up the intensity of your game, the Slide Force Women’s Spandex Shorts have you covered.
Best For
- Training or gameday underlayer
- The gym
- Workouts at home
- Everyday
Features
- Non-squeezing body-contouring fit, perfect for layering
- Incredibly soft, high-stretch, moisture-wicking brushed fabric
- Hip and thigh-protecting double-layer side panel
- Smooth, anti-chafe SeamSoft™ microfilament flatlock stitched seams
- 6-inch inseam
Why Customers Love It
Mia wrote, “I love these spandex shorts so much! My practices and games are on turf and these help me avoid nasty turf burns. I've been looking for tight spandex that doesn't ride up as I run and I finally found these perfect shorts. Many thanks to Goal Five for finally creating the perfect pair of spandex for running and soccer.”
Get it here.
7. Combo Women’s Soccer Tight with Shin Guard Pocket
Unmatched fit, feel, and function come together in the Combo Women’s Soccer Tight with Shin Guard Pocket.
Best For
- Field training
- Staying warm in cool temperatures — better than the average pair of leggings
- Running
- Everyday
Features
- Built-in shin guard sleeve
- Lightweight, brushed, moisture-wicking, ultra-soft fabric
- Supportive contouring fit without squeezing
- Mid-rise, wide, stay-put waistband with interior drawcord and stash pocket
- Smooth, anti-chafe SeamSoft™ microfilament flatlock stitched seams
Why Customers Love It
Soccer player Liz says, “I'm so happy I decided to try these out. I love the shin guard pocket, will be great for soccer workouts come fall and winter. Wore these on a longer run the other day and I didn't have to pull them up once - number one thing I look for in workout tights and they passed the test. For sure would recommend them to my teammates and friends!”
Get it here.
8. Valia Women’s Black Jogger Pants
Valia Women’s Jogger Pants bring the weightless agility of a pair of leggings to a slim, relaxed-fit performance jogger.
Best For
- Coaching or training
- The gym
- Everyday
Features
- Mid-rise
- Double-layered, smoothing knit waistband with internal elastic drawcord
- Body-skimming from waist to hip and relaxed from knee to ankle
- Chafe-reducing flatlock stitching
- Two front pockets and a zippered back pocket
Why Customers Love It
Dorene purchased these for all-occasion wear: “Purchased a pair of the XL about a month ago and have hardly used any other pant for my walking/hiking/preswim cover/training pant. I tend to be toward the fuller figure side, and I've found the fit to be exactly what I want. Most pants tend to be too long, but these hit just right. The coverage up to the waist is perfect and the zipper makes for easy off over shoes or swim booties.”
Get it here.
9. 99’er Padded Sports Bra
The 99’er Padded Sports Bra exemplifies next-level comfort where it truly counts. Support your fitness goals and your natural shape with a molded fit that never pinches, binds, or constricts.
Best For
- Field training
- Running
- The gym
- At-home fitness
Features
- Extra-soft, high-stretch, moisture-wicking fabric
- Breathable mesh back panel
- Soft, comfortable sewn-in cups for mid-level support
- Smooth, wide elastic band
- SeamSoft™ microfilament flatlock stitched seams
Why Customers Love It
Natalie wears hers all day! “This bra is by far the all around bra. The colors are so cute. The material is buttery soft. I love that the padding is sewn in so it doesn’t go all over the place. It holds the girls in place all while keeping them supported. You can also wear this bra all day — it’s that comfortable.”
Get it here.
10. Pionxr Bra Top
With a modern and stand-out color-blocking design, the Pionxr Bra Top embraces your form and your fearless attitude.
Best For
- Field training
- Running
- Going to the gym
- Working out at home
- Everyday
Features
- Longer cut
- Medium-support compression
- Interlock knit, peached back
- Supportive and smooth double-lined front with removable cups
- Anti-chafe finished arm hole and neckline
Why Customers Love It
Julia G. writes, “This sports bra promised comfort, high-quality material, and support, and, oh boy, did it deliver! I love the slightly longer length, and the support was enough to get me through my longest run in a while. The material is soft, seamless, and the colors are simply beautiful. This bra will make you feel like a superhero, ready to take on your next active day.”
Get it here.
11. Foudy Women’s Longsleeve Workout Top
Never too tight or bulky from excess fabric, the Foudy Women’s Longsleeve Workout Top has sleeves with thumbholes and a just-right hem to stay down and keep you covered.
Best For
- Field training
- Staying warm outside in cool weather
- Running
- At-home exercise
- Everyday
Features
- Body-skimming shape
- Ultra-soft, stay-dry fabric
- Fitted chest and looser waist
- Long, non-bulky, contoured hemline
- Thumb loops
- Smooth, SeamSoft™ microfilament flatlock stitched seams
Why Customers Love It
Customer Stephanie says, “This top is my new favorite long sleeve! The material is so soft I wish all of my clothes could be made from this! The fit is great - enough room to move around in but also fitted enough that I can layer over it if I need to. It’s great for working out or just wearing around town. I would definitely recommend — in fact I’m going to order more!”
Get it here.
12. Advance Women’s Training Top
For a full-force workout or a comfy day off, reach for the curve-conscious lines of the no-nonsense Advance Women’s Workout Top with luxurious moisture-wicking fabric.
Best For
- Field training
- Going for a run
- At-home exercise
- Gym day
- Everyday
Features
- Just-loose-enough, non-bulky fit
- Extra-soft, stay-dry fabric
- Raglan sleeves and perfect length contoured hemline
- Non-chafing SeamSoft™ microfilament flatlock stitched seams
Why Customers Love It
Natalie B. wrote in a review, “This shirt is incredibly soft and comfortable. It won't be coming off and I will be buried in it! No but seriously this shirt is so comfortable and soft. It keeps you dry and cool during those hot sweaty workouts. Not to mention how nice the fit and color of this tee are.”
Get it here.
13. Advance Women’s Workout Tank
The fabric, fit, and stitching of the Advance Workout Tank are engineered to keep active women unstoppable. The best workout tops are the ones you barely notice after getting dressed and realizing you feel powerful and motivated to chase your fitness goals.
Best For
- Field training
- At-home workouts
- Hitting the gym
- Everyday
Features
- Fits just right
- Soft, moisture-wicking fabric
- Crew neckline, contoured hem, and dropped armholes
- Hassle-free SeamSoft™ microfilament flatlock stitched seams
Why Customers Love It
Tennis player SR says, “I have this top in 4 out of the 5 colors. I love the way the fabric feels; more comfortable than other brand’s dri fit. The style and cut is just right - not too tight and not too loose. I don’t play soccer but this is my top when I play tennis..
Get it here.
14. Freasy Hoodie
Throw on a layer of peak comfort over that tank or tee shirt. The stretchy and lightweight Freasy Hoodie goes great with your warm-up routine and your commute to practice or the gym.
Best For
- Training/coaching
- Light physical activity
- Extra layer for outdoor workouts in cool weather
- Lounging or everyday wear
Features
- Silky, pre-shrunk French Terry fabric made of 100% cotton
- Extra length
- Hood with drawstrings
- Front pouch pocket
Why Customers Love It
This hoodie is comfy enough for everyone! Jack says, “It's so freaking comfortable and such a breathable, soft material. It totally has that worn in feel to it which I love. It feels like I've been wearing it for years. I also love how the hood lays flat on your back and isn't super puffy like some other hoodies. Definitely one of my favorite hoodies I own now, and I can not recommend it enough, for both guys and girls!”
Get it here.
What to Look For When Shopping for Comfortable Workout Clothes
It can be frustrating to navigate the variable sizes and styles of all the workout brands out there, especially when shopping online. But if you know what to look for, finding the perfect gear at affordable prices comes down to a basic formula of the following factors:
No-Fuss Fit
1. Get measurements
Small, medium, large, and even numbered sizes can vary. Use a tape measure to get your body measurements. Find a size chart to match yourself to the right size in the individual brand and garment you want.
2. Use your own clothes for reference
Notice the shape, size, and measurements of your favorite, best-fitting clothes and compare.
3. Return or exchange
If something doesn’t fit quite right, you’ll want to send it back or get a different size. Check stores’ policies to make sure you can return or exchange your purchase.
Fabric
1. Think dry and breathable
Moisture-wicking fabric will draw sweat away from your skin and evaporate it quickly instead of absorbing too much. COOLMAX® and SUPPLEX® are examples of moisture-wicking materials in workout clothes that draw moisture away from you without becoming soaked.
2. Reconsider cotton
At first glance, natural, soft cotton can seem like the logical go-to since it’s a breathable fabric, but it’s actually too absorbent to wick away moisture. Cotton clothes can get weighed down when you sweat, and are typically better as a sweatshirt or other top layer.
Type of Workout
Many workout clothes have specific purposes. For example, yoga pants need to be fitted, flexible, and stretchy, and wide-legged pants are a no-go for running or riding a bike. The type of activities you do will determine the balance between a movement-promoting loose fit and a more fitted structure.
Weather
On hot sunny days, you may need extra-moisture-wicking, breathable clothes that incorporate mesh to cool you down. Counterintuitively, you might also need the right fabric and the right amount of coverage for sun protection.
The best thing for an outdoor workout in cold weather is to wear several layers you can easily remove as your body temperature rises. In particularly cold temperatures, cover your head, hands, and ears.
For wet conditions like snow and rain, opt for items that insulate and have a protective, water-resistant outer barrier.
FAQs About Workout Clothes
What are the best clothes to work out in?
The best clothes to work out in have the right shape, fit, weight, and fabric to allow for the movements and conditions of your workout.
What are the best women's workout clothes?
The best women’s workout clothes are breathable fabrics that keep you dry. They’re structured to fit the female body in a comfortable way without a distracting excess of fabric and without inhibiting movement.
What is the best activewear brand?
Goal Five’s selection features the best workout clothes for active women on the go at affordable prices.
What are you adding to your workout wardrobe?
Do you already have any of these pieces? Did anything grab your attention? Browse the rest of our selection, and tell us what you love about these comfortable workout clothes on Instagram @goalfive.
Leave a comment
Comments will be approved before showing up.
