Gyms across the country are reopening or expanding capacity limits. If you’re planning on returning, upgrade your workout wardrobe with cheap gym clothes.
Finding cheap gym clothes that suit your needs and style often involves taking a chance on new brands. Many of these pieces fit and look great, not to mention they may have unique features you won’t find in other gym clothes. Cheap gym clothes are budget-friendly, so it’s easy to stock up on them. Here are some of the best.
Expensive gym clothes often have high-quality materials and construction, especially performance styles from premium brands. However, the overall quality of cheap gym clothes varies, and it takes a few washes and wears to find out.
It’s more common for expensive gym clothes to have premium features, such as moisture-wicking or odor control. Many affordable gym clothes have these features, though they might not be as effective as their pricier counterparts.
As far as style goes, expensive and cheap gym clothes are neck-and-neck. Many affordable styles, especially leggings, are mass-produced in various colors, prints and styles. However, the color variety is often limited in more expensive gym clothes.
In the past, cheap gym clothes had a reputation for wearing out much sooner than expected. These days, they’re made much better and may last as long as some premium-priced gym clothes.
Generally speaking, cheap gym clothes will last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on how often you wash and wear them. Seasonal pieces should last even longer since you’re wearing them less often.
Cheap gym clothes cost $25 or below, about half what some midrange pieces cost. To give you a better idea of what you might spend on each piece, here’s a quick breakdown:
Ewedoos Yoga Pants with Pockets
These popular Ewedoos leggings include a flexible blend of polyester and Spandex. They pass the squat test, and they’re equipped with side pockets to hold smartphones.
Where to buy: Amazon
BALEAF High Waist Biker Shorts
These compression shorts are available in 5- or 8-inch inseams and are perfect for running, spinning or lifting. The high-rise waistband has a supportive, stay-put design.
Where to buy: Amazon
Icyzone Racerback Tops, Two-Pack
You’ll get serious bang for your buck with this two-pack of racerback workout tanks. Their modern design features an open back to keep wearers cool during exercise.
Where to buy: Amazon
This simple workout tee has a lightweight, cool-to-touch material. It’s available in nine colors and can be worn on its own or as a base layer.
Where to buy: Kohl’s
Adidas’ timeless classic tee, a perennial bestseller, features the brand’s signature logo. The cotton and polyester blend shirt holds up well to frequent wash and wear.
Where to buy: Kohl’s
Pinkbomb 2-in-1 Running Shorts
These dynamic shorts have a breathable mesh outer layer with a built-in compression layer. They also have a hidden pocket to hold a smartphone or keys.
Where to buy: Amazon
Amazon now has a wide variety of house brands under its umbrella. This includes affordable athletic apparel labels like Core 10, Amazon Essentials, Peak Velocity and Goodthreads. Here are some of the most popular pieces from each one:
Amazon Essentials Men’s Tech Stretch Muscle Shirt
This sleeveless crew neck tee has mesh panels to boost airflow around the body. The stretchy polyester wicks away moisture and dries quickly.
Where to buy: Amazon
Amazon Essentials Women’s Midrise Leggings
Available in 10 trendy colors and patterns, these midrise leggings pair well with most workout tops. They have flatlock stitching to eliminate chafing.
Where to buy: Amazon
Core 10 Women’s Jacquard Mesh Cropped Tank
Versatile and stylish, this cropped tank top is great for the gym or any athleisure look. The lightweight design has a high neckline and a peek-a-boo back.
Where to buy: Amazon
Goodthreads Men’s Long-Sleeve Slub Thermal Pullover Hoodie
Often worn as a transitional hoodie, this lightweight style can be worn as an outer layer or tied around the waist during workouts.
Where to buy: Amazon
Amazon Essentials Men’s Fleece Jogger
It’s hard to beat the affordability of this fleece jogger, which has a relaxed leg and lounge-ready style, made from a soft blend of cotton and polyester.
Where to buy: Amazon
Champion Men’s Classic Logo Tee
Stylish and affordable, this all-cotton Champion tee is soft and comfortable. It’s available in dozens of colors.
Where to buy: Amazon
C9 Champion Women’s Soft Tech Tee
Wearers are big fans of this moisture-wicking tee for its cool-to-touch feel. The flexible design is a breathable polyester and spandex blend.
Where to buy: Amazon
Hanes Sport Women’s Performance Stretch Tank
This stretch tank, available in 10 colors and prints, has a longer hem than most workout tops. It’s also appreciated for its soft, smooth seams.
Where to buy: Amazon
Hanes Sport Men’s Mesh Pocket Short
Made with breathable mesh, these generously cut shorts are ideal for demanding, sweaty workouts. The elastic waistband has a hidden draw cord for an adjustable fit.
Where to buy: Amazon
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Sian Babish writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.