Best Workout Clothes for Women: Your Complete Guide for 2026
Written by Karen RobbinsA new year brings a fresh start and when it comes to your workouts, what you wear matters just as much as how you move. The best workout clothes for women don’t just perform during your sweat session. They help you feel put together, confident, and capable before, during, and after your workout.
At SPANX, we design activewear that supports your body in motion while seamlessly transitioning into real life. Whether you’re heading to the gym, running errands, or grabbing coffee post-workout, this guide breaks down what to wear to the gym in 2026 and beyond.
What Are the Best Workout Clothes for Women?
The best gym clothes for women combine:
- Supportive performance fabrics
- Sculpting, flattering fits
- Breathability and stretch
- Style that transitions beyond the workout
In other words: activewear that moves with you and makes you feel confident wherever the day takes you.
What to Wear to the Gym (and Everywhere Else)
Your gym outfit should work just as hard as you do and still look polished once the workout ends. Here’s how to build a versatile activewear wardrobe that delivers on performance and style.
1. Supportive Leggings That Sculpt and Move
High-quality leggings are the foundation of the best workout clothes for women. Look for styles that offer compression, flexibility, and shaping—without sacrificing comfort.
SPANXshape™ Booty Boost® 7/8 Leggings
Shop the SPANXshape™ Booty Boost® 7/8 Leggings
Designed to sculpt, lift, and support, these leggings feature SPANXshape™ technology that smooths and flatters while allowing full range of motion. The 7/8 length is perfect for everything from strength training to studio workouts.
SPANXshape™ Booty Boost® Full-Length Leggings
Shop the SPANXshape™ Booty Boost® Full-Length Leggings
For cooler days or all-day wear, this full-length version delivers the same sculpting power with a sleek, streamlined look that transitions effortlessly from workout to everyday wear.
2. Flattering Tops That Balance Function and Style
When deciding what to wear to the gym, tops should feel breathable and supportive but also polished enough to wear beyond it.
SPANX Get Moving Square Neck Shelf Tank
Shop the Get Moving Square Neck Shelf Tank
This elevated tank features a built-in shelf bra for light support and a square neckline that feels modern and flattering. It’s ideal for workouts and stylish enough to wear solo with leggings or layered under a jacket.
SPANX Outpace Cropped Tee
Lightweight and breathable, this cropped tee is designed for movement while offering a clean, sporty silhouette. Perfect for layering over tanks or pairing with high-waisted leggings for a confident gym look.
3. Statement Silhouettes That Go Beyond the Gym
Activewear for women isn’t one-size-fits-all and sometimes your workout look needs to feel a little more fashion-forward.
SPANXshape™ Booty Boost® Flare Pant
Shop the SPANXshape™ Booty Boost® Flare Pant
This flare pant delivers sculpting support with a silhouette that feels equally at home in the studio or styled with sneakers for everyday wear. It’s proof that the best gym clothes for women can also be outfit-worthy.
4. Layering Pieces for Before and After Your Workout
The moments before and after your workout matter too. Layering pieces help you stay comfortable without sacrificing style.
SPANX BoostUp™ Cotton Fleece Crewneck Tunic
Shop the BoostUp™ Cotton Fleece Crewneck Tunic
Soft, cozy, and elevated, this fleece tunic is perfect for warming up, cooling down, or throwing on post-gym. It adds polish to any activewear look while keeping comfort front and center.
Mix, Match, Repeat: New Purple Colorways
This season, we are introducing rich, modern purple hues designed to mix and match effortlessly:
- Blackberry
- Prune
- Verbena
These sophisticated shades elevate your activewear wardrobe and make coordinating outfits easy—whether you’re styling a full matching set or pairing neutrals with a pop of color.
Why SPANX Is the Authority on Activewear for Women
SPANX activewear is engineered to support real movement and real life. Every piece is thoughtfully designed to:
- Sculpt and support where you want it most
- Move comfortably through every workout
- Transition seamlessly into your everyday routine
Because the best workout clothes for women shouldn’t stop working once the workout ends.
Start Fresh. Move Boldly.
This year, invest in activewear that makes you feel confident, capable, and ready for whatever’s next. From sculpting leggings to elevated layers, SPANX delivers gym clothes for women that work boldly, everywhere you go.
Explore The Active Shop and find your new go-to workout essentials for 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best workout clothes for women?
The best workout clothes for women offer a balance of support, comfort, and style. Look for sculpting leggings, breathable tops, and versatile layers that perform during workouts and transition easily into everyday wear.
2. What should women wear to the gym?
Women should wear supportive leggings or pants, a breathable top with the right level of support, and layers for warming up or cooling down. The key is choosing activewear that allows movement while helping you feel confident.
3. Are leggings or flared pants better for workouts?
Both can work depending on your activity. Leggings are ideal for high-intensity or strength workouts, while flared active pants offer comfort and flexibility for low-impact workouts and all-day wear.
4. How should workout clothes fit?
Workout clothes should fit snugly without restricting movement. Leggings should stay in place, tops should allow airflow, and layers should feel comfortable without adding bulk.
5. Can you wear activewear outside the gym?
Yes. The best activewear for women is designed to transition beyond the gym. Sculpting leggings, elevated tanks, and polished layers make it easy to move from workouts to everyday moments.
6. What fabrics are best for gym clothes?
Look for performance fabrics that are breathable, moisture-wicking, and stretchy. These materials help regulate temperature, support movement, and maintain comfort during workouts.
7. How many workout outfits should I own?
Having at least three to five workout outfits allows you to rotate pieces throughout the week. Choosing mix-and-match styles and versatile colors helps maximize your activewear wardrobe.
8. Are matching workout sets worth it?
Matching workout sets make getting dressed easier and create a polished, put-together look. Coordinated colors—like SPANX’s blackberry, prune, and verbena shades—help streamline your activewear routine.