When it comes to being comfortable, you can’t go wrong with athleisure. The category blurs the line between clothes you’d wear lounging at home and clothes you’d wear to the gym, and somewhere along the line, it became an acceptable form of dress to sport in your day to day too. At Underscored, we’re big fans of athleisure. We simply love to be comfy! And while I haven’t caught any of my colleagues pulling up to the office in a pair of yoga pants (yet), I was curious to know what athleisure pieces they’re slipping into when working from home, traveling or after hours.
What is considered athleisure wear?
Before we dive into the editors’ picks, what exactly defines athleisure anyways? After all, there’s some athletic wear that definitely belongs in the gym and the gym alone, but we’ve come to recognize certain pieces — like yoga pants, joggers and hoodies — as acceptable in our everyday wardrobes. While nuanced, athleisure typically balances style and function, whereas some workout clothes focus only on utility and performance. Athleisure is more versatile; it can look dressed up if you want it to.
So whether you’re lounging around the house, running errands or actually getting your body moving, you’ll want to check out our favorite athleisure from top brands like Vuori, Athleta and more.
Our favorite athleisure wear
This Athleta bra, along with the Transcend Stash High-Rise Leggings, has quickly become a favorite set in my workout lineup. It’s the kind of thing I put on in the morning when working from home so that when my workday ends, I’m primed and ready to hit the gym, run some errands or just hang out. The material is soft while still offering support and stays in place while I work out. The set is simply designed but with some added feminine details, so I know I’m staying cute from the couch to the yoga mat. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor
For the days I want to be cozy and maybe get my steps in but not break a sweat, I always reach for this set — complete with the matching bra top — from Aritzia’s Golden brand. The fabric is soft and sculpting while still being super cozy and easy to move in. The fabric is a little thicker too, so it’s nice on fall days when I’m running errands. — Ellen McAlpine, updates writer
I first found out about Vuori on social media, and for way too long, I dismissed the brand as a flash-in-the-pan trend. But as soon as I tried on these joggers, I knew I was wrong. The DreamKnit fabric is so soft with the ideal amount of stretch, and the fit is the perfect amount of relaxed without veering into disheveled territory. I’ll happily work out and lounge around in these pants any day of the week. — Chelsea Stone, editorial director
I love athleisure clothes that don’t look like athleisure wear, and this Hikerkind top fits the bill. It is one of the most comfortable shirts I’ve ever worn, and it is beyond breathable. I love that it has its utility purpose when you need it but can also be worn casually. I also enjoy layering it over a lightweight tank or sports bra and leaving it unbuttoned. — Lindsey Smith, associate editor
I mostly prefer to adorn myself with concert tees and various other comfy clothes when others put on their athleisure, but I made an exception based on a recommendation for these soft shorts. Available in nine colors, these stretchy shorts kind of go with everything, and they even pack two zippered pockets (a tiny one inside the front right pocket, and a right rear pocket for your wallet or something you're okay sitting on). They're so good that I’m debating getting the pants version now that summer’s over. — Henry T. Casey, writer (technology)
These Tracksmith shorts are our best tested running shorts, and for good reason; they’re ultra-comfortable, they come with a built-in liner and the elastic waistband stays put as you move. All these things make them great running shorts, but I also reach for these during sticky, summer nights when I need to stay cool. Everything about these shorts is built for comfort, from the thin, breathable fabric to the quick-dry material, and Tracksmith just upgraded these shorts, adding more pocket space and an adjustable drawstring. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor
I have quite a few pieces from Vuori’s AllTheFeels collection and they’re my go-tos when I want to feel put-together but cozy at the same time. I recently got on the bootcut legging trend and these ones are my favorite right now. They’re less restricting than typical leggings (especially post-sauna when I’m extra toasty), and I love wearing them while traveling. They’re always adding in new colors, but when you see one you like, make sure to add it to your cart because they often sell out. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor
While this is technically a workout top, I mostly just wear this in my day-to-day wardrobe. It was one of those pieces that was going viral on TikTok and I was fully influenced. I have it in two colors (it comes in more than 20) and wear one of them pretty much every week. It’s an easy layering piece and can be worn with leggings, jeans and just about anything else. The material hugs the body in a comfortable, supportive way. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor
I own these in every color and have convinced multiple people to buy them. They are by far my favorite everyday pants for running errands. They can easily be dressed up with nicer shoes, but my go-to fit is with a T-shirt and slip-on shoes. If you’re also someone who bloats easily, these are a must have! — Lindsey Smith, associate editor
This Bandit race crop top is everything you need and more. Not only is it super supportive, but it also has a built-in pocket for your phone too. It’s perfect to wear when going for a run or even just around the house since it’s so flattering. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator
Those close to me know that these Gymshark joggers help form my favorite “leisure suit.” They’re among my favorite cold weather loungewear and they’re part of my airport uniform along with the matching Gymshark sweatshirt. They're thick and durable with deep pockets, and I'll also sport them to the gym over my favorite Gymshark shorts during frigid temps. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor
I’m not the only Underscored editor who’s a fan of Spanx’s AirEssentials line, and for good reason. The fabric of this sweatshirt is thick, yet lightweight and feels super luxe to the touch — truly unlike any other sweatshirt material — and the cut is quite sleek for a pullover. I’ve worn it both with leggings while running errands post-workout and with jeans for weekend hangouts with friends. — Chelsea Stone, editorial director
I have multiple pairs of these comfy leggings. I love them for yoga, walking the dog, travel and just loafing at home. They’re softer and lighter than the leggings I’ve tried from Lululemon, which makes them feel a bit more versatile too. I’ve had mine for several years now and they still look pretty great. I’ll admit there’s some pilling along the inner seam where there’s the most friction when wearing the leggings, but that’s to be expected with frequent, long-term wear. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor
Alo kinda changed my life. BA (Before Alo) I was wearing uncomfortable jeans and layers of tees and cardigans whenever I boarded a flight. Now, I consistently don this fabulous matching sweatshirt and sweatpants, which not only look so cool with the raised, silver Alo logo but are also incredibly comfortable no matter how long I’m going to be sitting in that airline seat. I adore the super-soft French terry and the stylish oversized fit. And, I should add, I’m no spring chicken, but never feel like I’m veering into too-trendy territory. — Tobey Grumet Segal, health, food and fitness editor
After I found these shoes in London last summer, they’ve become new favorites. I think they're a great combination of modern design with ultimate comfort thanks to a cushioned collar and memory foam insole for all-day support. Branded details on the side and tongue, along with a matching storage bag, make these versatile trainers ideal for both casual outings and athletic wear. — Kyle Olsen, travel products editor
I’m really into the collared crewneck style that I’ve been seeing out and about this fall, and this pullover from Abercrombie’s YPB activewear line is a great way to try the trend for yourself at under $50. I’ll throw on this polo sweatshirt after a Pilates class and feel way more put-together (and comfy, thanks to soft, sweat-wicking material) than I would have in the old college hoodie I used to reach for. — Chelsea Stone, editorial director
I love these leggings for the gym, for running errands, for lounging around the house, going on walks ... If I could, I would wear these to the bar with a pair of heels. I first discovered these when I was testing best leggings and now Athleta has found itself a life-long fan, as its sports gear is just so comfortable and the fabric is exceptionally soft. I’ll probably buy some more of these in several colors to keep me stocked up through fall and winter. — Rachel Quigley, managing editor
Lululemon leggings are 100% worth the hype. At Underscored, we’ve been testing leggings for weeks, so I’ve personally worn, washed and lounged in at least nine pairs. Out of all leggings, I can safely say Lululemon’s Align High-Rise Pants are the most comfortable winner. Plus, the fabric is smooth and weightless. The leggings win bonus points for featuring a handy little pocket for keys, hidden in the waistband. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer
I’m a little embarrassed about how I spent this much I spent on this skirt ... but I love it. It’s the perfect length for an athletic skirt that I can throw on and head out the door looking polished. The skirt’s design does not look like the typical workout skort, but something you might find at a department store (leaning into the miniskirt trend). The skirt is lined with shorts that are breathable and comfortable. Plus, it has pockets. I’ve worn this on walks and coffee dates. It’s versatile and has become one of my favorite athleisure pieces. — Gareen Puglia, associate testing writer
These bestselling pants need no introduction. But in case you’re unfamiliar with this Athleta holy grail item, they have an elastic waist, pockets, breathable fabric and can be dressed up or down. I live in these when I want to look a bit more polished but don’t want to put jeans on. — Lindsey Smith, associate editor