Let me kick things off with a funny story: a few years ago, I found myself desperately searching for a workout outfit in my closet minutes before an important race.
But as I rummaged through, I realized I had nothing suitable – quite the fitness fashion faux pas!
This incident sparked my journey into discovering alternative brands to Under Armour.
And boy, have I uncovered some gems! Now, let’s dive into this treasure trove, and you can find the perfect athletic apparel for your next sweat session.
Oh, and here’s a little teaser:
Did you know that Under Armour was founded by a former University of Maryland football player, Kevin Plank, who started the business from his grandma’s basement?
Now, that’s one inspiring tidbit! But we’re here to explore what else is out there, so let’s get started:
Lululemon
When I think of stylish, quality yoga and athletic apparel, Lululemon immediately comes to mind.
Their leggings are to die for – I swear they make my booty look amazing! Lulu has an array of tops, bottoms, jackets, and accessories to take you from downward dog to brunch with the girls.
The price point is on the higher end, but in my experience the craftsmanship and fit are worth it.
Some of my favorite pieces from Lululemon include their Align leggings, Scuba hoodies, and Flow Y bras.
The Nulu fabric in the Align pants is so soft and lightweight, it feels like you’re wearing nothing at all! Yet they keep their shape all day without sagging. I love wearing my black Aligns both for low-impact yoga and for running errands.
The Scuba hoodies live up to their name with the plush, fleeced interior. They’re perfect for throwing on after a sweaty workout or staying cozy on a chilly day. I have the oversized full zip in heathered black – it’s become my go-to for walks with my dog and outdoor winter activities.
Don’t sleep on Lulu’s yoga-specific bras either. The Flow Y is my new fave for all my bending and inverting.
It has light compression and adjustable straps to dial in the perfect fit. Plus the back has a unique cross-strap design for support and cuteness. I wear mine for pilates, barre, and weight training too.
Some other great finds from Lululemon include their Five Year Basic Tees, Fast and Free leggings, Energy Bras, and Down For It All jackets. The quality and technical construction is truly second to none. Yes, you pay a premium, but activewear this good is worth investing in for the long haul!
Athleta
Fellow ladies, if you love boutique-style activewear, check out Athleta. I’ve found their designs to be sleek, flattering, and made of innovative performance fabrics.
They carry workout clothes for yoga, running, swimming, and more. I especially appreciate that Athleta offers petite and plus sizes too. Bonus – their tights and bras have ample pockets to hold your phone, keys, and cards when working out!
Some of my personal faves from Athleta include their Salutation Stash Pocket leggings, Advance Bra, and Rainier Tight. The lightweight Salutation pants quickly became my go-to for yoga and barre. They have two stash pockets at the waistband that easily fit my phone. No more scrambling to find my device when class ends!
For high impact workouts, I opt for the Rainier Tight made of Powervita compression fabric. These durable leggings stay in place through jump squats, sprints, and burpees like nobody’s business. They also have mesh ventilation zones behind the knee for breathability.
Finding a cute, supportive sports bra is no easy task. But Athleta’s Advance Bra checks all the boxes. The molded cups offer compression and shape, while the cross-back straps halt pesky back bounce. I wear mine for HIIT, running, and cycling.
Beyond versatile staples, Athleta also carries trend-driven workout clothes. Think floral prints, tie-dye, and color block pieces that transition seamlessly into streetwear. The quality and performance is all there, with added style points. I love doing Athleta haul try-on sessions for my blog – so many gems to uncover!
Outdoor Voices
This Austin-based brand has made a name for itself with its minimalist aesthetic and focus on recreation over hardcore fitness. The clothes are made for everything from hiking to walking the dog, not just sweat sessions at the gym.
I’m eyeing their doing things bra and cloudknit sweatshirt – talk about casual-cute! Outdoor Voices checks sustainability and inclusivity boxes too with eco-friendly fabrics and extended sizing.
Outdoor Voices seems to fill an underserved niche – activewear specifically designed for everyday recreation vs high-performance training.
Pieces like their tennis skort, exercise dress, and hiking shorts are perfect for getting moving without feeling overly technical.
Their proprietary Textured Compression fabric blends compression, sweat-wicking, and four-way stretch in a lightweight knit that moves with you. I tested out the Powerhouse Tennis Skort in blue dusk – it was so comfy for an impromptu tennis outing with friends! The built-in shorts underneath provided extra coverage and confidence on the court.
The Exercise Dress also intrigued me with its workout-to-weekend potential. Made of breeze mesh, it felt airy and relaxed during hot yoga yet still kept me covered.
The attached shorts were perfect for inverting without worrying about, well, overexposure! Afterwards I just slipped on sandals and looked cute enough for errands.
For men, the Everyday Shorts seem ideal for golf, walking, and even casual Fridays at the office. I may have to order a pair for my partner’s upcoming birthday!
They come in versatile solids as well as colors like mustard, cobalt, and spearmint that add personality.
Outdoor Voices keeps things fresh with new collections and limited edition colorways too. I admire their community-driven approach and focus on accessible activity for all.
Vuori
If coastal vibes are your thing, look no further than Vuori. I’d describe their style as California-cool athleisure.
They’ve nailed the art of all-day wear with pieces like joggers, hoodies, tanks, and bike shorts.
Bonus – their clothes are so soft! Prices are a bit steep, but Vuori’s clothes boast performance tech and quality construction. One of my fave bloggers raved about their yoga pants, so those are at the top of my shopping list!
Vuori is known for combining technical athletic fabrics with a relaxed SoCal aesthetic. They’ve dubbed it “active living” wear meant to keep up with your movement, recovery, adventures and more.
The Ponto Performance Jogger and Strato Tech Hoodie are prime examples. The lightweight, stretchy joggers move with you whether working out or just chilling, while the Strato hoodie balances warmth and breathability. I’d live in these two pieces!
For women, the High Rise Kore Short and Daily Legging are ideal for everything from yoga, to hikes, to everyday wear. The soft, stretchy fabric boasts moisture-wicking properties and four-way stretch. Choose from versatile neutrals like black, navy and grey or colors like iris, chrome and raspberry.
The Clouds bra also intrigues me with its barely-there lightweight feel and seamless edges. It seems perfect for low impact activities where you still need support but want to feel like you’re wearing nothing.
I’d also check out their Swim collection if you spend time near the water. Their reversible bikini tops and swim trunks can transition easily into streetwear for a beachy casual vibe.
While pricier than mass brands, Vuori delivers on quality, innovation and everyday versatility. Investment pieces meant to last – I can get behind that idea!
Girlfriend Collective
Their high-waisted leggings and bike shorts are best sellers. And everything comes in the chicest mix of earth tones. Major heart eyes for this brand!
Girlfriend Collective is a breath of fresh air in the activewear space with their focus on inclusivity and sustainability.
Their leggings boast compressive fabric made of recycled water bottles – 26 to be exact! I’m in awe that they’ve kept over 50 million bottles out of landfills so far. Their bike shorts and bras also utilize sustainable materials like recycled fishing nets.
The brand carries sizes from XXS to 6XL – how amazing is that? No one gets left out from their trendy, eco-friendly designs. The minimalist earthy color palette is so chic too.
I’m loving their Compressive High-Rise Legging and Float Bra. The smoothing leggings are perfect for low-impact training and the bra provides light support without constriction. Plus they’re made of quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabric to keep you cool and comfy.
The Paloma Sports Bra also intrigues me with its longline cut and thick shoulder straps. I need that extra support for high-impact workouts! It comes in versatile solids as well as fun prints like plumage and aloha sunset.
Beyond leggings and bras, check out their Unitard Bodysuit, Exercise Dress and Everyday Jumpsuit too. Who said sustainability can’t also be stylish?
Girlfriend Collective is absolutely a brand to watch. They balance ethics, quality and on-trend style better than almost anyone in the game right now. I’m excited to see what they come out with next!
Fabletics
Want celebrity-inspired activewear for less? Fabletics is your jam. Kate Hudson co-founded this brand that offers cute workout clothes at affordable prices.
With a flexible VIP membership, you can get pieces starting at just $24! As a member, you take a style quiz and can shop outfits curated for your tastes each month.
I may or may not have bought like 5 of their outfits in my first month #noshame. Okay, maybe a little shame 😉. But for the quality and cost, I’m obsessed with Fabletics!
If you want style, performance and value from your activewear, Fabletics needs to be on your radar. Their clothes boast high-tech fabrics and trendy prints/styles at fraction of the price of many competitors.
Becoming a VIP member is a total game-changer. Perks include outfits starting at $24, free shipping, reward points toward free gear, and personalized outfit recommendations.
Take their Powerhold leggings – these compression workout pants rival Lululemon’s Aligns at a way lower cost. The high-waisted fit is uber flattering and they keep their shape all day long.
Fabletics’ Trinity Line sports bras also can’t be beat. The longline bra band stays securely in place, while the strappy back design is beautiful. The Trinity bra gives me the support I need for running and HIIT without suffocating or bouncing.
In addition to staples, Fabletics drops fun, limited-edition collections often. They’ve partnered with fashion icon Iris Apfel and model Ashley Graham on capsules inspired by their signature styles. How cool is that?
Beyond celeb collabs, Fabletics also releases lineups based on different destinations. I’m loving the tropical solids and prints from their Hawaii-inspired Aloha Vibes pieces. Their Oslo Nordic Lights collection also boasts cool winter-ready gear.
Basically, Fabletics brings together on-trend looks, performance tech and accessibility. Sign me up to be a happy VIP member for the foreseeable future!
Brooks
When it comes to running shoes and apparel, Brooks is my top choice. I log quite a few miles each week training for races, so good shoes and gear are crucial.
Brooks is a running specialty brand, so they’ve dialed in support and functionality like no other. Their Ghost and Adrenaline shoes are my ride-or-die faves. For clothes, their high-impact sports bras and shorts with pockets get two big thumbs up from me!
As an avid runner logging 40+ miles a week, I always turn to Brooks for top-notch running shoes and apparel. This specialty brand was created for runners, by runners – and it shows!
Let’s start with their shoes, because Brooks has running footwear dialed in. Their Adrenaline GTS is a go-to stability shoe great for overpronators like me. The GuideRails technology guides your stride to prevent excess ankle rolling.
For neutral runners, check out the Ghost. This lightweight neutral shoe provides the perfect blend of cushioning and responsiveness. I wear my pair for speedwork and races up to half marathon distance.
Brooks also offers trail running and walking shoes. The Caldera is a durable trail runner ready for the demands of the great outdoors, while the Addiction Walker provides cushy comfort for all-day wear.
For apparel, you can’t go wrong with their high-impact sports bras. The Uplift Crossback and Rebound Racer bras offer bounce control and compression for larger chests like mine. Their supportive shelf bras are also perfect for incorporating strength training into my runs.
The Run Bold shorts and pants deserve a shoutout too. Details like side pockets, zippered pockets, and reflective details make these ideal for training. Not to mention the sleek, streamlined silhouettes!
Brooks leaves no detail overlooked when it comes to runners’ needs. From shoes to bras to accessories, they have you covered mile after mile!
On Running
Fans of unique shoe designs – I think you’ll dig On Running. This Swiss brand is making waves with their distinctive CloudTec outsoles (we’re talking little pods on the soles).
Not only do they look sleek, but the patented pods provide soft landings and propulsive toe-offs. Reviews say they’re great for road running, cross-training, and travel. The perfect marriage of form and function? Sign me up to test a pair!
If you love running shoes with personality, On Running needs to be on your radar. This Swiss brand has taken over the activewear world with their unique podded CloudTec soles.
The Cloud design provides an interesting visual twist on typical foam soles. But beyond looks, the segmented pods offer a smooth heel-to-toe transition and springy cushioning.
After reading rave reviews, I took the Cloud X shoes for a test run. The moderately cushioned yet responsive feel made my usual 5K route feel nearly effortless! The pods compressed on impact then propelled me forward with each toe push-off.
Beyond running, the Cloud shoes work great for HIIT, Zumba and other studio classes too. The flexibility and grip handles quick changes in direction and multi-planar movements.
On Running also offers options like the Cloudventure waterproof trail shoe and Cloudrock hiking shoe for outdoor adventures. Their Cloud X sandal even works for post-workout recovery and pool/beach days.
While pricier than average, the innovative CloudTec soles deliver on both form and serious performance. I’d recommend trying On Running to anyone seeking a responsive, smooth ride. The eye-catching design is just an added bonus!
Alala
Let me count the ways I adore LA-based brand Alala – trendy prints, coordinating sets, cool details…I could go on and on! Their clothes seamlessly take you from working out to running errands.
With a stylish Cali vibe, Alala has something for yoga, boxing, tennis, and more. I’m adding their rhythm leggings, intuition bra, and challenger tank to my virtual cart ASAP. Too cute for words!
Looking for workout wear that seamlessly transitions into daily life? Say hello to Alala. This LA brand blends performance with on-trend details for athleisure at its finest.
Alala’s clothes work as well for the gym as they do for school drop-off, work, brunch…you name it! The fabrics boast technical properties like four-way stretch, moisture wicking and sweat proofing to keep up with your movement.
Several prints and pieces have earned permanent spots in my closet rotation. The Interval Mesh Leggings have a trendy snakeskin print in a lightweight, breathable fabric perfect for hot yoga and HIIT.
The Intuition Long Line Bra provides light compression and support without constricting. I love the mesh racerback and keyhole detail in back – so cute! This bra takes me from spin class to errands in comfort and style.
The Challenger Tank is another fave made of silky-soft, stretchy jersey. It’s become my go-to for gym sessions, walks and casual weekends. I love the side slits and motivational “You Can Do It” graphic on back.
Beyond versatile staples, Alala also releases fun limited collections like their tennis-inspired Rally pieces. This innovative brand has mastered high performance meets on-trend style. Sign me up!
Varley
Varley screams sleek and chic fitness wear. The London-based brand brings together on-trend styles with technical fabrics.
Their leggings especially are super flattering – no sagging, sliding, or see-through problems. And their selection of bras, tanks, hoodies, and more is to die for. If you love Liv Tyler’s styles and unique prints, Varley will make your heart race!
Varley’s leggings, like the Bedford Tight, are crafted with compression fabric that sculpts and supports, all while being incredibly comfortable. Whether you’re doing squats in the gym or strolling the streets, you’ll look and feel fantastic.
Let’s talk about their Terri Crop Top. It’s all about fashion-forward workout gear. The mesh detailing adds a touch of sexy, and it’s perfect for those hot yoga sessions. Varley doesn’t just make workout clothes; they make statements.
Varley also understands the importance of sports bras. Their Gale Bra is designed to provide optimal support without sacrificing style. With a chic crisscross back and high-performance fabric, it’s a top pick for any workout enthusiast.
And if you’re looking for the ultimate in versatility, Varley’s sweaters and hoodies are a must-see. The Luna Sweatshirt is a perfect example – it’s cozy, chic, and can be worn in and out of the gym. A piece that effortlessly transitions from a yoga class to a coffee date.
P.E Nation
Fitness fashionistas, meet P.E Nation – a coveted activewear brand from Australia making waves worldwide.
Founded by Pip Edwards and Claire Tregoning, P.E Nation blends bold prints, sleek silhouettes and technical fabrics for statement-making workout wear. Their leggings, sports bras, hoodies and more inspire confidence and fitness motivation.
Scrolling through P.E Nation’s website feels like workout wear eye candy. The Aussie brand churns out new collections with splashes of neon, abstract prints, lux details and more. While trend-driven, their clothes also deliver high performance tech to power through sweat sessions.
The Flex Light leggings for example combine compression, sweat-wicking fabric and sculpting seams. The fabric contours your shape while allowing free range of motion. Choose from colors like rocket red, venom green and more to turn heads at the gym.
For bras, check out their Longline style for light support with attitude. Signature mesh paneling adds breathability while the racerback straps and open back flaunt some skin. Wear it for low-impact training or pair with high-waist leggings for everyday wear. So cute!
P.E Nation also excels at layering pieces and accessories. Their Spectrum Water-Resistant Jacket with reflective piping upgrades any workout look. And the Ballistic Empower waist bag means you can workout handsfree.
Beyond clothes, they also drop limited edition sneaker collabs with brands like New Balance and Asics. Talk about streetwear cred!
So if you crave activewear that motivates, inspires and makes a scene, I’d say join the P.E Nation movement. This Aussie brand knows how to make workout wear daring and fun!
Tommy John
Guys, meet your new go-to for activewear that perfectly blends comfort, performance and style – Tommy John. This menswear brand has revolutionized underwear and expanded into loungewear, activewear and beyond.
Tommy John’s workout clothes keep up with tough training thanks to technical fabrics, strategic ventilation, and quick-drying properties. Yet the timeless, tailored fit works just as well for everyday wear. Level up your fitness wardrobe and beyond with Tommy John!
Having worn Tommy John underwear for years, I was eager to try their activewear when the collection launched. The Second Skin fabrics and athletic cuts are game-changing for guys’ workout gear.
The Crossover Short for example quickly became a workout staple. The lightweight material is sweat-wicking, quick-drying and moves with you. The built-in liner provides security during squats and training while the streamlined fit looks sharp outside the gym too.
The Aero Iso and Velocity joggers are ideal for warmups, cooldowns and lounging. Technical details like ventilation zones, reflective accents and bonded seams upgrade standard sweats.
Yet the tapered silhouette and cropped length keeps them polished enough for errands after the gym.
I also appreciate Tommy John’s range of tops from sleeveless tanks to long sleeve crews. The Eversoft fabric strikes the perfect balance between compression and breathability. And thumbhole details add sporty style.
Lastly, their All Day Boxer Brief lets you wear one garment seamlessly from your workout through the rest of your day. No more changing out sweaty underwear post-gym!
Tommy John definitely hits that sweet spot between athletic performance, everyday comfort and modern style. Men who train hard but also want their clothes to look good should absolutely check out this brand.
Live The Process
Yogis and barre babes listen up – I’ve found the perfect activewear brand for your practice. Introducing Live The Process, a collection designed forpilates, barre and yoga with a focus on fit, function and femininity.
Their leggings, bras and bodysuits boast customized details to perform during studio sessions while also flattering your figure.
Expect breathable compression fabrics, stay-put waistbands, sweat-proof makeups and more. Live The Process brings together performance, polish and confidence boosting fit – yes please!
As a yoga instructor and barre enthusiast, I’m very selective about my activewear for studio classes. Pieces need to move and stretch with me through poses without distraction. Enter Live The Process – their clothes are made for mindful movement practices.
The Perception Mid-Rise legging instantly became my daily go-to. The compressive fabric provides muscle support and smoothing. But the waistband stays in place no matter how much I twist and bend. No adjustments needed!
The Lightning Bodysuit also keeps everything in place even in compromising positions. The long sleeve, snap bottom design offers full coverage. Yet the breathable fabric never makes me overheat, even in hot yoga.
Beyond bottoms, Live The Process excels at supportive, stay-put bras. Both the Eclipse Bra and Luna Bra secure the girls without smashing or bouncing. The back straps are thoughtfully designed to lay flat and stay hooked.
Extra details like discreet waistband pockets, sweat-proof fabric, and antimicrobial properties check all the boxes. You can tell the brand considered everything that bugs women during studio sessions and solved those pain points.
So if flawless function with a dash of femininity speaks to you, get your yoga/pilates/barre attire at Live The Process. This niche brand has perfected activewear for mindfulness movement.
Year Of Ours
Let your activewear do more than just perform – let it tell a story. That’s the idea behind Year Of Ours, a small yet growing brand focused on “identity, activism and community.” Their collections celebrate causes like heritage, justice, unity and pride through uplifting designs and partnerships.
When you wear Year Of Ours, your workout gear makes a statement beyond just looking cute. Join a community that comes together through shared beliefs and active living.
The female and queer founded brand imbues meaning into every collection they create. The Heritage lineup which supports Black futures features vibrant prints and motifs significant in African culture.
Their Votes For Women capsule honors suffragettes who fought for equality, with bold purple and white pieces. Portions of proceeds went toward organizations supporting women’s rights.
For Pride Month, Year Of Ours partnered with queer artist Luca Palladino on a gender-inclusive capsule with messages like “You Are Safe Here” and “You Are Loved.”
Through uplifting messaging and conscientious partnerships, Year Of Ours connects humans through creativity and activity.
Of course, the clothes also perform beautifully thanks to fabrics like compressive smoothing Anomaly material. Sports bras, unitards, hoodies and more stand up to sweat while also showcasing values.
So if you believe in supporting brands that give back and inspire change, Year Of Ours delivers. Represent causes close to your heart while also feeling amazing in their socially conscious activewear.
Spiritual Gangster
Yogis, fitness junkies and followers of all faiths – meet your new fave label for elevated basics with meaning. Spiritual Gangster is a California-based brand creating apparel and accessories that blend design, positivity and functionality.
Their collections showcase inspiring phrases, cool logos and vintage vibes perfect for the gym, studio or streetwear. Beyond just looking good, Spiritual Gangster aims to spread good vibes and connect like-minded souls. Check them out for motivation and meaning straight from your activewear.
This inspirational brand roots itself in yogic philosophy and spreading joy. Pieces blend laidback SoCal vibes with feel-good messaging.
Tops and tanks feature mantras like “Good Vibes Only” and “This Too Shall Pass” – a reminder to stay hopeful in tough times. I love manifesting positive intentions for my practice by wearing their clothes.
Their vintage-inspired logo also adds interest to basics like tees, hoodies, shorts and leggings. The palm tree, sun rays and mountain imagery hints at their west coast roots.
On top of style, Spiritual Gangster uses fabrics ideal for yoga, hiking, lounging and more. I’m a fan of their Butter luxe material – buttery soft yet durable. Pieces move with me whether flowing through vinyasa or dashing after my kiddos.
The brand also gives back through partnerships supporting women’s empowerment, animal rescue, and inner city arts education. Align your activewear purchases with your values through their mindful mission.
If you want motivation with a boho twist, check out Spiritual Gangster. Their clothes spread good energy from the inside out!
