They say if you look good, you feel good. With that in mind, why wouldn’t you wear gym gear that oozes cool? These four brands have combined style and sophisticated technology to create pieces that look good and work well. If you want to make a statement when you work out, add these exercise essentials to your shopping cart.
Vie Active
Vie Active Libby Hoodie ($235)
If there was an award for “statement gym gear”, this hoodie would win. Made from Vie Active’s unique merino-blend fabric, the hoodie features handy pockets, a zip-up front, and of course, the brand’s signature leopard print. It’s fashionable and functional, and believe it or not, it will keep you feeling comfortable in any kind of weather.
Vie Active Katrina Tank ($99)
This is the kind of tank that deserves to be worn around town — and guess what? Thanks to Vie Active’s use of pure merino fabric, the tank draws sweat away from the skin, which means you can skip the post-workout wardrobe change. Along with the head-turning leopard print, the tank features a racer back and slimming side panels to give you support and a full range of movement.
Vie Active Maya Scoop Tank ($89)
Perfect for those days when you’re planning to run or jump around, the Maya Scoop Tank is fast becoming an exercise essential. The print may be more toned-down than the brand’s other pieces, but its scoop tank and hip-length cut have been designed with a woman’s physique in mind. There’s also a pocket on the inside that can hold an MP3 or iPod Nano.
adidas by Stella McCartney
adidas by Stella McCartney Studio Hoodie ($160)
This jacket effortlessly combines high fashion with high function. A stylish take on the standard hoodie, this item features loose-fitting sleeves (so you can move your arms comfortably), a ribbed under layer (for support) and a hood (to keep your pretty little head warm before and after your workout). Throw it over a tee or a tank for a sophisticated workout look.
adidas by Stella McCartney Performance Tank Printed in Turbo ($80)
If you’re partial to an attention-grabbing outfit, this leopard-printed performance tank has your name written all over it. McCartney clearly gave the cut a lot of thought: She layered a racer cut tank with an integrated bra, making this an all-in-one piece. Since it’s quite tight-fitting, this tank is ideal for running, cross training and other high-intensity workouts.
adidas by Stella McCartney Run Performance Short in Ultra Bright ($70)
These shorts move so fluidly with your body, you almost forget you’re wearing them. Cut for movement and comfort, the shorts feature an elastic waistband, mesh vents (to allow your skin to breathe) and mesh lining (to keep you nice and dry). They are also a little longer than your average running short, which means you won’t have to worry about them riding up your legs. If you’re not a fan of the colour, these versatile shorts also come in black.
Also shopping for a supportive bra? Check out our guide to choosing the right sports bra >>
Running Bare
Running Bare “Material Girl” Twist Boyfriend Tank in Black Tiedye ($45)
Bored of your plain black and white singlets? Add a bit of flair to your workout outfit with this Material Girl tank. Made from cotton with a scoop neckline, thin straps and a twisted “y-back”, this tank is as comfortable as they come. It also features tye-dye and metallic stud skull print, making it both practical and fashionable. The tank also gets points for its length: At 74 centimetres, it falls all the way down to the hips.
Running Bare Work It Half Tights ($70)
When you’re squeezing in a sweat sesh most days, you need a pair of tights you can rely on. Enter the “Work It” Half Tights. With a mid-rise, elasticised waistband and a bit of spider mesh on the side, these tights offer a slim, flattering and — most importantly — comfortable fit. Thanks to the “contrast taping” — a.k.a. those pink lines twisting down the tights — these tights are also stylish.
Running Bare Spice Push Up Crop ($60)
Heading to a yoga or Pilates class? Ditch your regular sports bra and don Running Bare’s Spice Push Up crop. Ideal for those times when you don’t need quite so much support, this crop top has a scoop neckline, padded cups, an elasticised underband and adjustable shoulder straps. It also has that funky, bright blue pattern all over — a far cry from the racks of boring black bras. In other words, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more flattering, flexible crop top.
Under Armour
UA Compression Tight ($100)
Have you been looking for the perfect running tight? If so, you can stop because we’ve found it. These Under Armour compression tights tick all the right boxes. The figure-hugging fit not only allows you to move easily, but it also helps to prevent injury. They are full-length, which is perfect for those chilly winter mornings. The wide waistband offers that extra bit of coverage that stops your tights from falling down/riding up (don’t you hate that?). Finally, they just look cool. Let’s not sell that short.
UA Victory Tank Top in Dark Pink ($40)
Great for women on the go, this tank will take you everywhere from spin class to the grocery store. With its sleek cut and light fabric, this is what you call a “performance tank” — it pulls sweat away from your body, dries quickly and allows your skin to breathe. It’s also cut in such a way to enable your body to move freely — whether you’re trying to conquer crescent pose or reach for the box on the top shelf, this tank won’t get in the way. Function at its finest.
UA Tech Short Sleeve Tee in Red ($35)
If you prefer a more relaxed fit, this short sleeve tee from Under Armour fits the bill. Thanks to its V-neckline and sleeves, the tee will give you room to move without showing too much skin. It’s also made from a lightweight, breathable fabric, so you can avoid the feeling of it clinging to your skin once you’ve broken a sweat. Plus, the colour will brighten up your workout.
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