The best activewear brands are those that can deliver well beyond the gym, a run or fitness class. Fit for purpose for exercise as well as leisure time, stellar workout wear should be versatile, comfortable, able to endure movement and, inevitably, sweat.
Picking the right brand depends on the exercise you plan on doing. Lululemon is renowned for its leggings, while Adidas stocks a vast range of pieces for varying activities, from trail running to football and yoga. And, of course, the sportswear behemoth has released a series of cult collaborations over the years, including an ongoing partnership with Grace Wales Bonner, which fashion insiders have adopted as an everyday uniform.
Whether you’re working towards a new PB, committing to a routine, or simply need a new sports bra for motivation, scroll on for the best activewear brands to bookmark for 2025.
Lululemon’s leggings, contoured outerwear and smart accessories have become legendary amongst fitness buffs. The brand’s Align leggings, which come in a plethora of colourways and lengths, are consistently voted best in class thanks to their comfortable construction and flattering fit.
It’s been nearly a decade since Lara and Ben Mead launched Varley – a brand with a product range that hits the definition of “athleisure”. From elevated knitwear to outerwear and super-soft jersey leggings, its staples will see you through both a steady workout or lounging time at home.
H&M proves that form-fitting activewear needn’t be restrictive or uncomfortable. The collection features minimalist designs, many of which are made from a signature Softmove material that feels like butter on the body.
Originally founded as an underwear-first brand, Lounge designs every piece with the female form top of mind. For 2025, we’re bookmarking the classic leggings and fitted top, which feel like sculpting second skins.
One of the OGs for high-performance sportswear, Adidas has in recent years expanded its oeuvre to include lust-worthy fashion collabs with the likes of Wales Bonner and Stella McCartney, alongside its successful Adidas Originals line, all of which look just as good on the city streets as they do in the gym.
Tala may have only launched in May 2019, but it has already garnered a cult following, thanks to its functional and flattering fitness-wear made from recycled and natural materials. With a range of separates and accessories on offer, available in sizes 2XS to 4X, you’re sure to find something to love.
In apparel, Nike’s figured out the sweet spot for high-performance fitness pieces that masquerade as real clothes. Aside from cosy sweats and puffers, the brand’s Dri-Fit tech, featured in compression pieces, is thinner (and somehow stronger) than traditional stretch yarns for a featherlight touch that lets you move freely.
Beyond Yoga has become a surprising cult hit for its jumpsuits and bodysuits, with top-rated designs beloved by its customers. Plus, the brand has figured out how to create slick maternity options that combine comfort with style.
Girlfriend Collective’s collections feature neutral colourways alongside vibrant shades and playful designs, with sizes ranging from XXS to 6XL. With each product, the brand also shares an eco breakdown that outlines how much waste is offset to create the garment. For example, the Connie bra diverts 12 bottles from landfill and can be easily recycled.
Drawing inspiration from the coastal California lifestyle, Vuori combines comfortable daywear silhouettes with high-performance fabrics to create exercise staples you’ll want to wear day in, day out. At the top of our list for 2025? The versatile Restore hoodie.
A true high-street stalwart, Sweaty Betty has been dressing fitness lovers for over 25 years, and continues to convert with its sturdy Power leggings and Seamless running tops.
Associated with supermodels like Candice Swanepoel and the Hadid sisters, Alo Yoga’s designs are exactly the kind of athletic wear you’ll see in both celebrities-in-the-wild paparazzi shots and at yoga classes, alike. Tip: if you’re in between sizes, check the product descriptions on the website, where you can often find a handy sizing demonstration video that will help you find the perfect fit.
Launched by three-time World Duathlon champion Olivier Bernhard and engineers David Allemann and Caspar Coppetti, On’s activewear provides form and function at an incredibly high standard. The marriage of clean-cut designs and performance technology results in timeless pieces that will last a lifetime.
Activewear specialist Adanola has been a social media hit in recent years, owing to its reliable selection of exercise- and lounge-wear. Boasting a more affordable price point than other premium brands, its offering is focused on the modern, busy woman who wants to look and feel good at home, at the gym and everything in between.
Like many of Free People’s designs, its activewear selection boasts a bohemian, free-spirited flair. The Carpe Diem shorts are especially beloved by runners due to their breezy, un-restricting silhouette – plus, the colour selection throughout the collection means there’s plenty to choose from.
Offering an array of leggings, shorts and sports bras in muted shades, Sisterly Tribe’s collection is as easy on the eye as it is soft on the skin. The ballet wrap top is a customer favourite and has even been spotted on Hailey Bieber on a number of occasions.
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