Best Activewear Brands

From sculpting gym sessions to leisurely weekend strolls, the versatility of activewear has pushed boundaries, seamlessly blending performance and style.

We no longer wear our scruffs to work out in, we put as much thought into our gymwear and activewear as we do our every day fashion choices.

Brands have popped up year on year, offering high end (and often high price!) outfits to exercise in, and some seem to have taken the fitness world by storm.

With an array of innovative labels catering to every workout whim, elevating your athleisure game has never been more fun or exciting.

These are some of the best brands to kit yourself out in.

Homegrown Heroes: British Activewear

Before we start, a quick word on home grown brands.

Britain’s activewear scene is brimming with trailblazers, each offering a unique blend of functionality and fashion-forward flair. From the Instagram-worthy oversized tees of Adanola to the chic, wardrobe-integrating pieces from Varley, these homegrown brands have captured the hearts of fitness enthusiasts and style mavens alike.

Pokita’s tennis-inspired collections have garnered a devoted following, while the internationally acclaimed Gymshark continues to cement its reputation as a British powerhouse. Stripe & Stare, renowned for their comfy Tencel underwear, has ventured into the realm of biodegradable, tie-dye yoga apparel, showcasing their commitment to sustainability.

Freya’s band and cup size-specific sports bras offer unparalleled customised support, ensuring every workout is a comfortable and empowering experience. There are loads.

With such a diverse array of brands to explore, Britain’s activewear scene promises to elevate your fitness routine to new heights. This list isn’t exclusively British brands, but I’ve tried to include as many as possible.

Adidas: A Collaborative Powerhouse

Adidas Stella McCartney

From Adidas

When it comes to designer collaborations, Adidas reigns supreme. The iconic sportswear brand has seamlessly blended its high-performance heritage with the creative visions of esteemed designers, resulting in covetable collections that test the boundaries of activewear.

The Adidas x Stella McCartney collaboration exemplifies this fusion, with recycled-polyester shorts that effortlessly transition from the gym to the streets. Meanwhile, the Wales Bonner x Adidas partnership pays homage to retro aesthetics, infusing each piece with a nostalgic yet contemporary flair.

Sweaty Betty: A High Street Stalwart

For over a quarter-century, Sweaty Betty has been outfitting fitness enthusiasts with top-notch activewear. Their sturdy Power leggings and Seamless running tops have garnered a loyal following, cementing the brand’s reputation as a high-street stalwart.

Whether you’re hitting the gym or pounding the pavement, Sweaty Betty’s meticulously crafted pieces are designed to withstand the rigours of even the most intense workouts, ensuring you look and feel your best throughout your session.

Lululemon: Legendary Leggings and Beyond

When it comes to activewear, Lululemon’s name is synonymous with excellence. Their legendary Align leggings, available in a kaleidoscope of colours and lengths, have consistently topped “best-of” lists thanks to their unparalleled comfort and flattering fit.

But Lululemon’s prowess extends far beyond their iconic leggings. Their contoured outerwear and smart accessories have become indispensable staples for fitness buffs, offering both style and functionality in equal measure.

Nike: High-Performance Meets Street Style

Nike has mastered the art of creating high-performance fitness pieces that easily transition into everyday wear. Their DRI-Fit tech, featured in compression garments, is lighter and stronger than traditional stretch yarns, allowing for unparalleled freedom of movement.

From cosy sweats to sleek puffers, Nike’s apparel offerings are designed to keep you comfortable and stylish, whether you’re hitting the gym or running errands around town. The Storm-FIT Swift Women’s Running Jacket is a prime example of their ability to blend performance and fashion.

Girlfriend Collective: Eco-Conscious and Size-Inclusive

Girlfriend Collective

Girlfriend Collective is a brand that truly embodies the spirit of inclusivity and sustainability. Their extended sizing caters to all body types, while their eco-conscious approach ensures that each piece is crafted with minimal environmental impact.

From their oft-sold-out bike unitard, which diverts 26 water bottles from landfills, to their Dylan bra, which repurposes 12 water bottles, Girlfriend Collective proves that stylish activewear can be both ethical and accessible.

Beyond Yoga: Cult Favourites for Jumpsuits and Bodysuits

Beyond Yoga has carved a niche for itself with its cult-favourite jumpsuits and bodysuits, beloved by its loyal customer base. But their expertise extends far beyond these popular silhouettes, with a range of maternity options that effortlessly blend comfort and style.

Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a new mom seeking functional yet fashionable activewear, Beyond Yoga’s offerings are sure to impress.

Vuori: Coastal Comfort Meets Performance

Drawing inspiration from the laid-back coastal lifestyle of California, Vuori seamlessly blends comfortable daywear silhouettes with high-performance fabrics, creating exercise staples that you’ll want to wear day in and day out.

The versatile Restore hoodie is a must-have for 2024, offering the perfect blend of style and functionality, whether you’re hitting the gym or simply lounging at home.

P.E Nation: Streetwear with an Activewear Soul

P.E Nation’s activewear offerings are a true fusion of streetwear aesthetics and performance-driven functionality. Their garments are designed to withstand the demands of vigorous exercise while maintaining a cool, urban vibe that seamlessly transitions from the gym to the streets.

To find the perfect pieces for your workout routine, simply shop by activity – P.E Nation’s collections are curated to cater to your specific fitness needs.

Alo Yoga: Supermodel-Approved Athleisure

Alo Yoga

From Alo Yoga

Alo Yoga’s designs have become a staple in the wardrobes of supermodels and celebrities alike, with the likes of Candice Swanepoel and the Hadid sisters frequently spotted in their stylish athleisure pieces.

From disco-themed leotards that effortlessly transition from the barre studio to a night out, to sleek yoga separates, Alo Yoga’s offerings are a testament to the brand’s ability to blend performance and fashion in a way that resonates with fitness enthusiasts and style mavens alike.

Tala: Sustainable and Size-Inclusive

Tala may be a relative newcomer to the activewear scene, having launched in May 2019, but it has already garnered a cult following thanks to its commitment to sustainability and size inclusivity.

With a range of separates and accessories crafted from recycled and natural materials, available in sizes 2XS to 4XL, Tala ensures that every fitness enthusiast can find functional and flattering pieces that align with their values and body type.