The best workout clothes for men of 2026, according to experts
These top 10 brands feel good, move with you and keep you dry and comfortable.
In this story
There are two types of people in this world: the ones who can work out in just about any old T-shirt they own and the ones who will spiral out of control if their shorts scrunch up mid-squat or their shirt turns into a clingy, sweat-filled sponge midway through their routine (me; I’m this person).
I’d like to think I exercise a decent amount — six days a week, about 60-90 minutes each workout — so I’ve learned the hard way that what you can wear can absolutely make or break the workout. Not in a “someone get me a matching set!” kind of way, but in a “if this fabric continues to trap heat, I’m going to be slow-cooked” way.
And as someone who finds new ways to sweat through several loads of laundry on a weekly basis — running, weightlifting, Barry’s — I’ve become relatively picky (almost annoyingly so) when it comes to finding workout clothes that fit right, breathe right and don’t make me think about them every 30 seconds.
I gathered standout men’s workout clothes from 10 brands with the goal of focusing on the stuff that matters: comfort, sweat-wicking, durability and those little design details that make all the difference when you're mid-run or mid-rep. I narrowed down the lot from more 30 brands and wore various pieces — tops, bottoms and accessories — across a few weeks (nearly 25 hours!) of runs and strength workouts.
This is the activewear that feels good, moves with you and yes, might even make you feel a little hot while wearing it — and not in the sweaty way. You're welcome.
Best for overall training: Nike
Pros
Sweat-wicking staples that work for most workouts
Great for layering in cooler temps
Side pockets on the tights actually fit a phone
Cons
Light colors can be slightly see-through
Minor durability quirks reported over time
Why we love it: Nike is the definition of a workhorse brand, and whether it's for cardio, HIIT, weightlifting or any combo, the brand is my go-to when I want workout clothes that don’t require a whole thought process. I lean toward the sweat-wicking basics. I go from buying one to immediately wanting three more colors. Reviewers back that up, too: one person called Nike gear “great for the active lifestyle,” and another said they’re on their third pair of the tights because they wear them that much.
What experts say: Hannah Covacic, Apparel Design Director, points to Dri-FIT as a big reason Nike stays in heavy rotation, especially when you’re layering in colder weather. “Nike’s Dri-FIT excels at moisture management and temperature regulation,” she says, and it “pulls sweat to the fabric surface where it evaporates fast.” Phillip Solomon, Instructor at Barry’s Austin, agrees they’re a winter go-to, saying they’re “a great staple for training as the temperatures continue to go down and our effort continues to rise.”
Keep in mind: A few reviewers say some of Nike’s tights can feel thin for truly cold outdoor days unless you layer, and the tee’s lighter colors (like white) may run a bit see-through.
Best budget: Old Navy
Pros
Easy way to build a workout wardrobe on a budget
Soft, comfortable layers that work for warm-ups and recovery
Simple basics that still look decent out in public
Cons
Some fabrics can feel thin or flimsy
Less technical performance than pricier brands
Why we love it: It’s not flashy, but Old Navy is great for filling your drawer with reliable basic layers you’ll actually wear and that hold up to real life — without punishing your wallet.
What experts say: Covacic’s read on Old Navy is that the brand aces comfortable basics that still move with you — think soft knits with four-way stretch and sweat-wicking fabrics that work well for warm-ups, easy training days and post-workout lounging. The materials aren’t trying to compete with high-end technical activewear, but for everyday layers and simple pieces you can rotate constantly, she says the performance is “solid,” especially for the price point.
Keep in mind: The main tradeoff is that some pieces can feel thinner or lighter than expected — a shirt wasn’t as durable as they hoped, joggers weren't as heavy as intended. Fit can also run a little snug depending on your preference, and not everyone finds the styles especially unique.
Best for runners: Tracksmith
Pros
Featherlight, breathable fabrics built for speed
Sharp fit and small details that runners actually notice
Collegiate look that stands out from basic run gear
Cons
Pricey compared to standard running brands
Light fabric may cling or feel see-through when very wet
Why we love it: I run in heat, cold, rain, snow, whatever New York decides to throw at me; sometimes I want gear that feels a little special in a sea of black shorts. Tracksmith has the kind of apparel that makes you stand taller, open up your stride and show off the legs you’ve been working for.
What experts say: Solomon describes Tracksmith tanks as “next level,” saying they bring an old-school “preppy flair” to modern performance fabrics. He adds that even though they’re “silky and lightweight,” they’re still durable enough to “endure every rep and every step,” and the brand’s narrow back cut gives runners “an opportunity to get their full stride… and go the distance.”
Keep in mind: This is very much an investment brand, and fit can be a little hit-or-miss across styles. Certain shorts run too tiny, and the lightweight fabric can stick to you when it’s soaked.
Best for HIIT & cardio workouts: Adidas
Pros
Easy, reliable training basics that work across workouts
Moisture-managing tech built for sweaty sessions
Comfortable, functional, no-frills design
Cons
Built-in liners can be hit or miss
Pocket sizing may not suit every phone
Why we love it: Adidas knows how to fill in the athletic wardrobe gap without requiring a financial advisor. The designs are classic, sporty and consistent with pieces that look good, hold up and work across a bunch of different workout styles (which is really the whole point).
What experts say: Covacic points to Adidas’ AEROREADY tech as a big reason these basics perform, saying it “manages moisture to keep you dry.” She recommends looking for “lightweight woven fabric with some stretch,” plus built-in support and pockets that are actually functional. Solomon adds that Adidas pieces “focus on material and comfort,” and he calls the brand a great match for endurance and HIIT workouts thanks to sweat-wicking fabric that “dries quick and stays functional.”
Keep in mind: Fit and comfort can still come down to personal preference, especially when it comes to built-in liners and pocket storage. Some say certain tees can run a little long, and a few people mention odor can build faster depending on how hard you’re sweating.
Most stylish for versatile wear: Vuori
Pros
Comfort-first fabrics that still perform when you sweat
Easy to wear for workouts and everyday life
Breathable with a relaxed, modern fit
Cons
Sizing can vary between purchases
Limited color options in certain styles
Why we love it: Vuori is king of clothing that says, "coffee date, but first, workout." Everything feels soft and easy like loungewear, but it still looks sharp enough that you don’t feel like you’re wearing gym rags in public.
What experts say: Covacic says the brand wins because it’s comfy and functional. She calls the style versatility “the real win,” since you can go from workout to errands without needing a full outfit change. Bobby Westside, personal trainer and Adonis founder, agrees, saying Vuori is “easily my most worn” because it has the “perfect feel” and “perfect appearance,” though his one personal complaint is that he wants more shorter inseam options.
Keep in mind: Sizing consistency can be a little hit or miss, especially in the shorts — a few reviewers said newer pairs fit bigger or baggier than older ones in the same size. And while some appreciate the tank’s longer length, others feel they show just a little too much in the armholes.
Best elevated basics: Rhone
Pros
Polished yet minimalist
Stretchy, comfortable fabric with strong shape retention
Performance details that feel genuinely useful
Cons
Price is on the higher side
Sizing can run small for some
Why we love it: Rhone is what I wear when I want to look like I have my life together, even if I’m just going to sweat through a workout and then immediately wander into the rest of my day. The pieces feel polished and substantial in the way that I know they won't get torn apart in heavy and repeated wash cycles.
What experts say: Westside put it best: “Elevated” is the perfect way to describe Rhone — it’s “comfort that lasts and style that shines beyond the gym.” He even says he’s worn Reign Tees “beneath suit jackets more times than I can count,” which is honestly the highest compliment you can give a workout shirt. Covacic also points to the brand’s built-to-last feel, highlighting details like anti-odor tech and UPF protection that make basics more functional for everyday wear.
Keep in mind: Rhone is definitely a splurge compared to a standard gym tee, and sizing can be a little inconsistent depending on the item.
Best for intense workouts: Ten Thousand
Pros
Built for intense training and high-sweat workouts
Supportive compression that stays put
Smart storage with pockets that actually matter
Cons
Sizing can run a bit large depending on fit preference
Some durability complaints around logos or seams
Why we love it: Ten Thousand wins whenever I'm choosing survival over looking cute. It’s clean, durable, gym-first gear that feels built for sweat, speed and putting your legs through the wringer. The mirror selfie can come later.
What experts say: Westside calls Ten Thousand 'one of the OG gym wear brands,” and says he’s “still wearing Foundation shorts from 2018,” which is basically the dream if you’re tough on your gear. He also loves the compression liner because it “perfectly conforms to your legs without riding up,” and feels “thicker than most so you actually feel the support,” especially as a “top-tier leg day layer.”
Keep in mind: Some reviewers mention shorts can run a little large, with worry that the embossed logo might not hold up after a bunch of washes. It’s worth keeping an eye on wear if they're a favorite repeated-use pick.
Best moisture-wicking: Reebok
Pros
Huge affordability potential for training staples
Lightweight, sweat-friendly pieces
Solid for strength training, conditioning and class days
Cons
Fit can vary by style
More function than “fashion”
Why we love it: If you’re on the hunt for functional training gear and you love the feeling of getting a ridiculous deal, welcome: Rebook has all the basics you actually need. Tees, layers, warm-up pants, all without the “why is this $90? Guess I’m not adding to the savings this week” energy.
What experts say: Westside says Reebok made its name in fitness during the CrossFit boom and the gear still reflects that: “functional, light and built to last.” He adds that if you’re “a barbell bender, a kettlebell swinger or just a group fitness regular,” it’s affordable apparel you can count on. Covacic echoes that value-meets-performance sweet spot, calling out moisture-managing fabrics and ventilation that hold up during high-output sessions.
Keep in mind: Fit can be a little inconsistent depending on the piece — the comfort level is there, but certain items can run tight or aren’t the most flattering.
Best running accessories: Brooks
Pros
Accessories that feel comfortable and stay put
Supportive cushioning without being bulky
Cold-weather features runners actually use
Cons
Socks may feel too thick for some
Touchscreen performance can be inconsistent
Why we love it: I’m someone who cares about my workout outfit from head to toe — and the longer you run, the more you realize the “little things” can make or break the whole experience. Brooks is great at those small-but-mighty essentials you’ll wear constantly (and be genuinely glad when they pull through from start to finish).
What experts say: Brooks has “found its stride” lately, says Westside, and it’s become “one of the top 3 names people talk about when it comes to running gear.” Covacic also calls out how the brand gets the fundamentals right: low-profile cushioning and arch support that help reduce foot fatigue, plus odor resistance that lets you squeeze in a few wears before laundry day.
Keep in mind: Sock thickness is personal — some love the cushion from Brooks, others say they run too warm. With their gloves, they keep fingers warm without bulk, but a few mention the fingertips can tear over time.
Best premium accessories: Lululemon
Pros
Premium materials that feel breathable and technical
Workout-friendly details that are actually useful
Easy to wear to a class or everyday life
Cons
Color selection can feel limited
Sizing can be inconsistent across styles
Why we love it: My Lululemon layers and accessories get an absurd amount of use at various points of the week, and I’m not kidding when I say they have one of the only running hats that actually works for my big dome of a head without squeezing my brain.
What experts say: Solomon calls Lululemon a go-to because it’s ridiculously easy to wear in real life — it performs for training, but still looks pulled-together enough for that emphasis on versatility. Covacic adds that the brand’s pieces are built around movement and sweat, not just aesthetics, thanks to breathable, stretchy fabrics and ventilation that helps you avoid overheating.
Keep in mind: The biggest tradeoff is that you’re paying a premium for the brand's polish and performance details, and not every piece is meant to stand up against cold weather. The brand keeps it simple with basic color options in some styles, and sizing can run a little inconsistently across the bramd depending on the item, so it's best to try on in real life, if you can.
How we chose the best men’s workout clothes
To put together this list, I pulled from a mix of real-world wear and consulted fitness pros and apparel experts who actually understand what matters when you’re training; not just what looks good in a product photo. I spent time combing through specs and user feedback and then relied on my own personal experience in the clothes.
I'm someone who works out constantly (between six and nine hours per week). I lift, I run, I take classes and I’m the kind of person who needs different gear depending on what I’m doing (or how miserable the weather is outside). A breathable tank might be perfect for a sweaty indoor workout, but it’s not going to cut it on a windy winter run, and shorts that feel great for lifting can be a disaster if they ride up the second you start moving fast.
To narrow down the best picks, I looked at materials — fabrics that wick sweat, dry quickly, stretch without losing shape, and feel good against skin (because if it’s itchy or clingy, you’re not wearing it twice). I also paid attention to fit and function, including how pieces move during workouts, whether seams and waistbands stay comfortable over time, and how well everything holds up after repeated wear and washes.
Then came the details that separate “fine” from “actually worth it:" picks that make strides easier, pockets that don’t bounce your phone around, compression that stays put and lightweight layers that block wind or rain. The end result is a list of men’s workout clothes backed by expert input, firsthand experience and real customer feedback (aka gear you’ll genuinely want to wear again tomorrow).
What to consider when shopping for men’s workout clothes
Fabric and material
For most workouts, Lily Rice, Designer at The Long Run Club, recommends recycled polyester or nylon blends are “the best all round choice” because they’re “breathable, durable, quick drying and suitable for high intensity exercise.” And if you’re shopping for high-stretch pieces like tights or fitted tops, she recommends blended fibers with elastane for comfort and freedom of movement.
For longer sessions or colder weather, merino wool is the standout. Rice says responsibly sourced merino is “perfect” because of its natural temperature regulation and odor control, making it ideal for base layers and winter training when you want warmth without overheating.
The only time cotton really makes sense? Low-intensity days. Rice says organic cotton can be great for active recovery because it’s soft and breathable, but it “absorbs moisture rather than moving it away,” which is exactly why it’s not your best friend during a sweaty workout.
Workout type
Rice stresses that matching fabric to the activity is everything. For high-sweat workouts like running, cycling or Hyrox, Rice recommends fabric that’s “lightweight, durable and excellent at moisture management,” noting that a good-quality recycled polyester “will dry quickly and keep its shape over time while allowing you to focus on the task at hand.”
As for fit, it should feel secure but never restrictive. Rice puts it best: “If it rubs, rides up or needs constant adjusting, the fit is wrong!” Westside agrees you want something form-fitting, not skin-tight, just “nothing flailing in the wind.”
Running, cycling and cardio workouts usually benefit from a closer fit (less rubbing, less fabric flapping around).
Weights, lifting and strength-focused workouts can handle a slightly more relaxed athletic cut.
Climate and sweat level
Your environment matters. For cold-weather workouts, Rice recommends layering with a breathable base layer first, then mid-layers that trap warmth without overheating. For warm or high-intensity sessions, prioritize quick-drying fabrics and airflow zones like mesh panels at the back and underarms.
Durability
Good sportswear should last years, not one season. Rice recommends looking for quality fabrics and durable stitching with care instructions you’ll actually follow. Westside’s biggest longevity tip is to air dry your workout clothes whenever you can — dryers are brutal on performance fabrics.
Performance features
Rice says flatlock seams help cut down on rubbing, and gussets (that crotch panel) can seriously improve comfort, range of motion and durability. Compression can be great, too, as long as it feels supportive rather than restrictive.
Men’s workout clothes FAQ
What fabric is best for men’s workout clothes?
If you want a reliable all-around answer, go for performance blends like recycled polyester or nylon with a bit of stretch, especially for sweaty workouts. They’re lightweight, breathable and dry fast. Rice also recommends being mindful of “treatments” and big fabric claims, since some are chemical finishes that can wash off over time. Her advice is simple: “If it sounds too fancy to be true… Google it.”
How should workout clothes fit men?
Secure but not suffocating is the goal. Your clothes should move with you through a full range of motion without rubbing, riding up or needing constant adjusting. Westside says they should “flatter your form,” and you should wear what looks and feels good on you. Also, in his words: “Shorts are called shorts for a reason” — he’s firmly in the 5-inch inseam (or less) camp.
Are expensive workout clothes worth it?
Sometimes. Rice says higher prices only matter if they reflect better materials, stronger construction and responsible production, but expensive doesn’t automatically equal better. Look for transparency around fabrics, longevity and repair or recycling options. Westside puts it in gym math: “Buy cheap, buy twice.” If you’ll wear something weekly for years, price-per-wear can make the splurge worth it.
Meet Our Experts
Hannah Covacic, apparel design director and former head of design, menswear at Jack Wills
Lily Rice, designer at The Long Run Club
Phillip Solomon, instructor at Barry’s Austin
Bobby Westside, trainer and founder of Adonis, the app for clients to find and hire their own personal trainer