These Are the Best Workout Clothes Our Fitness Editors Have Worn and Recommend

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FINDING WORKOUT CLOTHES that are functional but still look great used to be quite the challenge. While baggy t-shirts and old sweatpants were once the norm as gym gear, the best workout clothes for men are now all about combining the best of performance and style while hitting your KPIs. Because when you look good, you feel good—and you perform even better.

From household name athleisure brands to niche athletic wear brands, there are plenty of options when it comes to men’s workout clothes that fit the bill. But they need to put quality and performance first. For instance, the best men’s workout clothes will be made in materials that prioritize breathability, moisture-wicking, and stretch to ensure optimal comfort during all kinds of exercises. Additionally, the best men’s workout clothes should be versatile enough to adapt to any training routine, from high-intensity weightlifting to yoga sessions.

Best Workout Clothes for Men

Whether you’re still getting in the groove with your new fitness journey or you’re already a gym pro, the best workout clothes for men will help you feel much more motivated and enthusiastic about your time in the gym—or wherever you decide to grind it out. The Men’s Health team of fitness experts (including certified trainers) and style editors have thus come together to test our over 40 pieces this year to find the 16 best workout clothes for men. From gym shorts to workout shirts to compression pants, these best men’s workout clothes should help you crush those reps.

What to Consider

Fabric

The best workout clothes for men should be crafted from high-quality materials that prioritize breathability and sweat-wicking capabilities. Fabrics like moisture-wicking blends, nylon, and polyester offer superior sweat management, keeping you dry and cool throughout your workouts. For many of us training happens amidst a busy day, and often we are wearing our workout clothes outside of the gym. This makes great fabric even more important.

Breathability

Choose designs that promote airflow, such as mesh panels or perforations, to prevent heat gathering during intense workouts. Preventing yourself from getting overheated during training sessions can greatly improve your performance, meaning you can get even more out of your effort.

Fit and Stretch

The best men’s workout clothes should offer a snug yet non-restrictive fit. Look for garments with added spandex or elastane for optimal flexibility and four-way stretch, allowing unrestricted movement. The last thing you want is for your squats or plyo box jumps to be hindered by your workout pants or your bicep curls cut short by a much-too-baggy shirt.

Seams

Check for strong, flat seams that won’t chafe or irritate your skin. Depending on your training regime, you may be spending time on a mat or a weight bench, so you won’t want any uncomfortable seams digging into your back or sides. Flatlock seam is a popular option that can prevent chafing and irritation.

Activity

Different kinds of workouts or exercises demand clothing that performs in different ways. For cardio, choose lightweight and sweat-wicking apparel. Weightlifting will require more fitted attire to prevent excess fabric interference. The environment that you’re working out in will also play a factor, whether you need protection from gym flooring or mats.

Durability

The best workout clothes are designed to withstand the rigors of the most intense workouts. This goes especially for anyone who likes to train outdoors, as you’re also hoping for your clothes to protect you from the elements, and being able to withstand them. Reinforced stitching and sturdy materials ensure that they remain in top condition, even after multiple gym sessions or washes.

How We Chose

In order to find the best workout clothes, our team of editors have personally tried 40 different gym clothes since the beginning of the year, and tested each of them for at least two weeks, such as deadlifting in Ten Thousand’s Interval Short or logging miles in Lululemon’s tank tops. In addition, we also considered options tested and recommended by our Fitness Director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S., NASM-CPT certified trainer Charles Thorp, C.S.C.S. certified trainer Cori Ritchey, and NASM-CPT certified trainer Brett Williams, who are also Men’s Health editors.

To get a feel for how these workout clothes for men really felt and how they held up, we vetted our options by taking notes of their style, fit, comfort, price point, versatility, and performance such as stretch, moisture-wicking, and breathability. We examined whether they fit well and true to size, whether their fabric could withstand hours of movement, and whether they could be worn for more than one type of workout.

Our testers also include a diverse range of body types to help us ensure an unbiased result for selecting the best workout clothes for men. In addition, our tested selection focuses not on trendy or trend-chasing gym clothes; instead, our picks of the best workout clothes for men all fit great athletic guys with big quads, provide great value and performance at reasonable price points, and come in styles that will look great years from now.

Reign Tech Short Sleeve

The right workout shirt should feel like a second skin. Enter Rhone’s short sleeve tee: A workout shirt so amazing we’ve showered it with praise in our Fitness Awards several times in the past. Our fitness team at Men’s Health have deemed it as perhaps the most comfortable t-shirt they have ever tested and worn to a gym session. “This breathable top moves with you when you reach overhead for pull-ups and chin-ups thanks to its seamless construction,” says our Fitness Director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S. Its breathable, moisture-wicking fabric has always come in a pinch for me whenever the gym gets a bit too heated.

In addition to the broken-in (while still secure) fit that’s loaded with gym-friendly specs like an anti-chafing, moisture-wicking fabric, the Reign tee is also infused with gold (yes, really) to fend off any gym odors. Taking it outside? It also has a UPF50+ exterior for adequate sun protection. I can barely tell when I’m wearing it, and while the fit is athletic, it can stretch however much as required to every exercise I need it to.

$68.00 at rhone.com

Metal Vent Tech Sleeveless Shirt

You should never feel tied down or limited during a workout, and after Lululemon finally gave its best-selling, editor-tested workout shirt the upgrade it deserves, you never will. It’s an ultra-comfortable, ultra-light tank that offers plenty of arm room for you to get through every exercise, from pull-ups to power cleans to kettlebell swings.

During our testing and comparison, we found that the new Metal Vent Tech singlet is cut and fitted so that you have a full, free range of motion as you hit sprints and smash out pull-ups. But it’s updated with a seamless (read: chafe-less) build, and the fit and weight now feel much less clingy on sweaty skin.

After testing it out through numerous gym sessions, I’ve noticed that this tank now comes with more stretch than ever as well. In short, the cult-fav tee is as breathable as its predecessor but now more comfortable and durable to sport for hours on end, wear after wear.

$68.00 at lululemon.com

Interval Short

Finding a great pair of gym shorts can be a struggle, whether you have big thick thighs or leaner, more shredded legs. Being someone who has gone through all the variations, this is the only pair that has fit no matter where my legs are at size wise. These don’t chafe or tighten around my thighs; functionally, they’re very versatile since I’ve worn them for workouts, commutes, and weekend downtimes, making them a total steal when calculating cost-per-wear value.

Available in lined or unlined, and in three sensible lengths, the Interval has a fabric that in our testing showed a maximum range of motion and quick sweat-wicking quality. It will allow you to flex comfortably in a poly-spandex blended fabric. All in all, it’s a short that can keep up with the most intense exercise.

$58.00 at tenthousand.cc

Sunday Performance Jogger

Equal parts practical and stylish, these soft mid-weight knit joggers are ideal for on-the-go active types. Made in moisture-wicking materials, these joggers are able to keep our legs cool and dry at all times and keep the clingy, sweaty feelings at bay even when you’re running. Speaking of movement, these joggers are built with four-way stretch as well, meaning they’ll keep up with both your squats and sprints.

The comfort of the fabric in these joggers is not to be underestimated—though it doesn’t completely feel seamless, the softness will make you want to lounge in these joggers, and the breathability helps the fabric stay fresh. We also like the tapered fit of these joggers: Roomy in the seat and thigh areas but slim from the knees down, taking away any bulk around the ankles to help us move even more comfortably.

I’ve used these on errand runs to the grocery stores to shop my meal prep just as much as I’ve used them in the gym. These are the perfect do everything jogger that you won’t get tired of wearing or being seen in. The zippered pocket comes in clutch for credit cards or keys as well.

$89.00 at vuoriclothing.com

Hawthorne Tech Hoodie

Legends makes an athletic hoodie that’s a cut above the rest. I’m a big fan of the way its clothes and perform out in the world. I have found this fleece pullover is perfect for runs or lifts, keeping me cool with its Cloud-Tech Fabric while warm enough to stay loose. Prepare for this hoodie to be a new go-to in your workout wardrobe.

This hoodie is premier in fit, function, and soft stretch. Our team likes the kangaroo pouch, allowing for easy access to cards or keys. This is the only pocket you need with your gym look, so you don’t need to worry about crowding your jogger or gym shorts with unnecessary gadgets.

The whole thing is made from a recycled polyester/tencel/elastane blend that is super flexible and breathable, allowing you to move through all ranges of motion while staying cool and dry. All in all, this workout hoodie will take you from warm-ups to cool-downs with its comfortable fit, functional build, and performance.

$95.00 at legends.com

Cordura Training Shirt

Our testers bought this for those sunny morning runs in the morning as well as outdoor exercises in summer and found that this workout shirt is excellent for daily wear and workouts, with a superb fit, lightweight (almost weightless) fabric, and breezy feeling. The shirt is very durable and hasn’t gotten any runs in the fabric or tears. We found that the quality is better than the ringspun shirts, which have shrunken and gotten holes many times in our testing.

The performance in the cool-to-the-touch fabric has also let our tester stay dry and fresh and protected from the sun. We also love that it’s soft, quick-drying, and doesn’t stick to the body when sweating. The fabric is light and breezy to keep you cool and dry even during intense workouts. It’s a perfect pick for layering.

$34.00 at reigningchamp.com

Flite XT Zero Tab

Most Swiftwick athletic socks are perfect for running and training, but we especially love the combination of cushioning, breathability, and compression in the Flite XT Zero Tab. These socks have an incredibly long lifespan and hold their shape over time. Plus, they can also be worn for other types of all-day activities, like golf, thus making them more versatile than your average running sock.

More importantly, in our testing, we found that its proprietary GripDry Fiber was able to keep us blister-free no matter our training. But what really made these socks part of the best workout clothes is that they offer enough grip and feel for anyone who wants to deadlift sans sneakers; coupled with elastic wraps at the ankle and heel, they also provide extra support and protection where needed the most.

It’s hard to remember the days when I used to train in regular socks. Once you’ve worked in a pair like this, providing support and compression during your runs or calisthenics, you won’t want to go back. They fit nice and securely on the foot.

$20.00 at amazon.com

4D Flex Cotton Modal Boxer Brief 3-Pack

We love these mesh boxer briefs from Polo Ralph Lauren because incredibly versatile for different kinds of exercises, from kickboxing to weightlifting to calisthenics, with a soft cotton-modal blend that’s moisture-wicking to keep you cool and dry downstairs.

In our testing, we found that even when doing squats, these skivvies were able to provide and maintain a high level of athletic comfort with four-way stretch and breathability thanks to the side mesh panels. Plus, their slim silhouette in smooth cotton feels like a second skin. I also love that their pouch and gusset provide support without chafing the skins of the boys or weighing me down. Better yet, they won’t ride up or bunch up under your gym shorts or pants.

Not to mention, Ralph Lauren knows how to make a stylish, while still comfortable, piece of clothing. So I don’t need to be self concious while I’m in the gym locker room or at the BJJ club, changing into my gi after work.

$54.50 at amazon.com

Element Baselayer Leggings

Yes, you’ve seen this brand plastered all over the internet—but the gear can perform in the gym, too. Use these leggings, which we found to be the perfect base layer, to crush your strength training workouts. First, they’re sweat-wicking and quick-drying, but won’t stick to your skin when you perspire too much since the fabric is breathable also.

We also love how comfortable they are despite the compression fit: the flatlock seams don’t feel distracting and in fact accentuate the muscles, and the overall fit stays put no matter how you move so you don’t have to readjust after every set. More importantly, they’re designed to support your muscles and recovery through your workouts.

$32.00 at gymshark.com

Quilted Zip-Up Jacket

For those who want to hit the workouts or cardio outdoors, this zippered hoodie comes in a clutch during cold weather days. It is surprisingly light, and super stretchy, meaning you can go through all ranges of motion with ease even when fully zipped in this. I’ve got a few of the quilted items from Nobull and on top of their great performance in the field, they look with the fit.

I also like this hoodie’s regular fit which leaves you enough breathing and wiggle room on the inside. This hoodie is great when you want an outer shell that you can throw on and off quick, so you don’t miss any of your training session. Not to mention you can spare yourself having to pull a sweaty piece of clothing over your head. The pockets are zippered to provide security to your gear.

$118.00 at nobullproject.com

Limitless Athletic Fit Jogger

The iconic Dick’s Sporting Goods name launched its own menswear brand VRST in 2019. And they’ve impressed us every since. Case in point: This pair of joggers that feature multi-stretch fabric combined with sweat-wicking tech. I am a fan of these pants whether I’m putting in hard work at the gym or just lounging around at home doing a little recovery.

There are great pockets that were super useful when running and have unique placement in the back which we think provide the best security while running. The back pockets are zippered, providing that extra security for your wallet and cards while running.

These training pants are lightweight, moisture-wicking, breathable, and come with a nice four-way stretch to work great in both heavy cardio workout or weightlifting. The drawstring makes adjusting the waist easy, to help the waist stay in place. VRST made sure to make a jogging pant that looked good too, and I’ve wore these to hangs after a gym session without feeling like I’m underdressed.

$88.00 at dickssportinggoods.com

React Drop Arm Tank

Sleeveless tanks are a great way to allow your arms full mobility, stay cool, and show off the guns a little. This is recommended by our Fitness Director and Fitness Commerce Editor as the best and most pump-friendly muscle tank to wear at the gym. The design is seamless and distraction-free so you will fully focus on your training.

The drop armhole cut and side seam panels are also designed in a way to flatter your physique as you lift. Still, this tank top is a doer: the mesh panels help with breathability, and the fabric is sweat-wicking and stretchy. If you one of those guys who enjoys training with their shirt off, like a few of our team, then this is the best route to go without breaking any gym rules.

$24.00 at gymshark.com

Session Shorts

Tracksmith is one of those brands loved by all of our editors, especially the runners in the crew. On top of next level running gear, they also make some awesome swim trunks, supporting the fact that they know how to make a quick-drying, moisture-wicking short, fitting for the road or the gym. For these reasons and more they’ve been spotlighted in our Fitness Awards more than once.

The liner sewed into the shorts brings welcome support when you are sprinting or jumping around. With nylon as its main material, its breathability is also unquestionable. The holy trinity of stretch, anti-sweat performance, and ventilation makes Tracksmith’s shorts the perfect runner. The pockets were thoughtful placed as well, with one zippered option to store anything you don’t want banging around during your jogs.

$59.00 at tracksmith.com

3 Pack Long Sleeve Compression Shirts

Elastic closure? Machine wash? Flatlock stitching? Moisture-wicking? Quick-drying? Check, check, check, and there’s even a stretch-mesh underarm, to boot, that optimizes ventilation and sweat-draining to carry you through even the nastiest gym sessions. This compression shirt made from polyester and spandex also features UPF 50+ protection from the sun. Its moisture-wicking and heat-releasing properties make it ideal for workouts in all kinds of weather.

I also love the flatlock stitching of these compression shirts which not only renders the fabric durable but also prevents chafing. In my experience of wearing these to lift weights and bench, which I had to readjust the fit now and then, overall it feels smooth and soft on the skin. For the price, the fit and style is unmatched.

$27.99 at amazon.com

HeatGear® Compression Shorts

Under Armour comes through yet again with these HeatGear Compression Shorts. Men’s Health editors have been wearing these for years because we are into the seamless, second-skin fit. You’ll barely even notice wearing these mid-length shorts. Plus, the updated design features smart craftsmanship to keep seams off chafe-prone areas, while strategically-placed mesh panels ventilate the areas where you need breathability most.

Not surprisingly, they’re among the best-reviewed compression shorts on Amazon with more than 3,500 positive ratings, including almost 3,000 five-star customer reviews. At under $30, they’re also surprisingly affordable, especially among Under Armour’s premium-priced sports apparel. If you don’t know the benefits of compression boots, think more support, more stable lifts, and fast recovery times after leg day.

$30.00 at underarmour.com

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