Choosing the Best Workout Clothes for Women: Combining Style and Function

Updated On: Apr 27, 2026
Woman wearing workout clothes

The perfect workout clothes balance style and functionality. The right attire not only boosts confidence but also enhances performance, providing the necessary support and comfort during your sweat sesh.

What Makes Good Women's Workout Clothes?

Woman in REP workout clothes


When selecting the best workout clothes, several factors come into play to ensure it's not just fashionable but also functional. Look for workout clothes with:

Quality Material

Workout clothes should be made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you dry and comfortable. Materials like polyester, spandex, and blends that include recycled polyester provide stretchability and durability, essential for a range of movements.

Proper Fit

Proper fit is crucial. Clothes should not be too tight to restrict movement nor too loose to cause inconvenience during exercises (tug, tug). They should complement your body shape — like the Artemis Shorts which fit in allthe right places but aren't overly snug —and enhance your ability to perform your lifts without discomfort.

Technology

Many modern fabrics come with advanced features such as anti-microbial treatments to reduce odor — hello, Rhea Cropped Tank with anti-odor technology — UV protection for outdoor activities, and sweat-wicking properties to help maintain an optimal body temperature.

What Should I Wear to the Gym?

Here are some of our favorite workout clothes for women.

Women’s Forma Shorts

Women in REP workout clothes


REP’s Forma Shorts are the epitome of style meets function. Crafted from a performance polyester/spandex blend, these shorts offer four-way stretch and are abrasion-resistant, making them perfect for everything from yoga to high-intensity interval training. They feature sweat-wicking technology and flatlock stitching for a seamless look that minimizes chafing, ensuring you can focus on your workout in comfort.

Women's Vellus Jogger and Hoodie

A woman shows off the Women's Vellus Jogger and Vellus Hoodie in the heather cool gray color.

Show up for your workout session in a matching set — the Women's Vellus Jogger and Vellus Hoodie. Available in heather black, heather cool gray, or heather wine, the Vellus set is stretchy, breathable, and provides the right amount of comfort for the gym or for the couch. Both pieces are also antimicrobial, featuring SILVADUR™ technology to keep your clothes fresh even as your workout heats up.

Women’s Clio Tank Top

The Clio Tank Top is designed for the eco-conscious athlete. Made from recycled polyester and elastane, this top not only supports sustainable fashion but also provides comfort and durability with its SILVADUR™ silver ion technology to combat odor. Its ultra-soft feel and performance capabilities make it ideal for both gym sessions and casual wear.

Women in REP workout clothes

Hera Tights

The high-waisted Hera Tights are designed for women who demand both coverage and style. These leggings are squat-proof, thanks to their moisture-wicking polyester and spandex fabric that ensures opacity and support. The inclusion of a hidden waistband pocket and a high hip pocket make these tights as practical as they are stylish.

Women in REP workout clothes

Vellus Shorts

The Vellus Shorts are soft, cozy, and relaxed — ready for anything that comes your way. These versatile shorts work in the gym when you're lifting, out on the town running errands, or even at night as your pajama bottoms.

The rear yoke seam gives you a flattering fit, while the mid-rise waistband stays in place whether you're out on a walk or lounging on the couch. They're treated with SILVADUR™ antimicrobial technology to help keep you smelling fresh, with deep hand pockets to keep your necessities nearby.

Woman wearing a sports bra and  gray Women's Vellus shorts on a white background

Performance Cap

This one's for the ladies who love to lift in a hat. The REP Performance Cap is built to meet the demands of both style and exercise. Its polyester and spandex construction prevents moisture absorption, and its lightweight design makes it great for indoor and outdoor activities.

REP's performance cap


Women's Daily Driver Tanks


The Daily Driver tanks come in two styles: Cropped Dual-Blend and Tri-Blend. Both are designed with a relaxed fit and racerback, enhancing mobility and comfort. The raw edge armholes and flatlock hems add a touch of style without sacrificing functionality.

Women in REP workout clothes


Unisex Zip Hoodie


The Unisex Zip Hoodie is perfect for cooler weather, designed with an athletic fit to highlight physique while providing enough room for comfortable movement. It features midweight fabric, raglan sleeves for less restrictive movement, and self-locking YKK zippers that stay in place during any activity.

A workout hoodie


Peak Tri-Blend Crew Shirt

For female lifters who prefer a looser fit, the Peak Tri-Blend Crew Shirt is the fit. This tee offers comfort and durability with shoulder-to-shoulder taped seams. This shirt is ideal for weightlifting or casual gym sessions, providing freedom of movement and a soft feel. Can you say pump cover?

Baggy T-shirt to wear to gym


Choosing the right workout clothes is about more than just the latest trends; it’s about finding a blend of style, comfort, and functionality that empowers you to perform at your best.

REP’s range of women’s workout clothes offers options for every preference and activity type, ensuring that you can train effectively and confidently. Whether you’re lifting weights, running on the treadmill, or participating in a yoga class, investing in high-quality workout apparel can make a significant difference in your fitness journey and how you feel about your performance and appearance.

Aimee Heckel, CPT, is a health and fitness journalist with over 20 years of experience. She set an all-time world-record deadlift in her division across all powerlifting federations at Mr. Olympia. In addition, she earned a national deadlift record and 18 Colorado state records. Heckel also has nine world records in grip sport, a pro card in natural figure bodybuilding, four first-place bodybuilding titles, and was named IPE Ms. Colorado Figure.

This article was reviewed by Rosie Borchert, NASM-CPT, for accuracy.

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