Ready to get active? Here are the workout clothes our editors swear by

I spent a lot of time in my Russell sleeveless tees this summer, both in order to keep my arms nice and free when I'm out shooting hoops and also to try (and fail) to even out my wicked farmer's tan. These comfy, breathable shirts are super cheap; I've already snagged three of them for less than 10 bucks each, and I'll almost certainly be buying more as indoor basketball season ramps up. — Mike Andronico, senior tech editor

I have a confession: I put on my workout clothes every morning to give me motivation to get to the gym. So if I’m going to be showing them off, I want to look good. I adore this pretty yet practical running tank from Carbon38 because it’s loose and comfortable, but adds a little fashion flair with its pleated back. It's also an asset for a more fashionable kiddie drop-off if you're heading straight to that workout after school. — Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor

No, Merino wool isn’t just for the winter. Its thermoregulating properties can not only keep you warm on the ski slopes but also cool on a summer day. I adore this shirt from Ibex because it’s incredibly soft and lightweight, but its Merino, Tencel and nylon blend means it’s great at wicking sweat and drying fast. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor

This is my absolute favorite tank top with a built-in bra. I wear it to yoga class, on runs and running errands. It has a flattering cut and just the right amount of compression. Oh, and it’s been in my workout clothes rotation for 10 years and still looks and feels as good as new. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor

I’ve been living in sun hoodies all summer long, and this is one of my favorites. Especially when I’m going to exercise outside, the Amp Lite is my standard uniform because of its UPF 50+ rating and its stretchy, quick-drying material. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor

These are my favorite running shorts because not only are they lightweight and comfortable, but they actually have pockets I enjoy using. Along with the standard two side pockets, they have a small zippered pocket on the lower left thigh to keep keys and another zippered pocket that’s just big enough to fit my iPhone 11 with a bulky case on the right hip. It’s perfectly placed to prevent your phone from bouncing when you’re on a run, which makes these the first pair of shorts I reach for. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor

Shorts have always been a problem for me, and during the summer, I just want to be able to go on jogs and long runs without having to constantly readjust the bunching fabric between my legs. Though I’d heard praise for the Lululemon Fast and Free shorts, the $78 price tag was hard to stomach — but I finally gave in. I like running in these shorts so much, I schedule my runs around my laundry schedule. They’re light and quick-drying, which is a huge plus for a sweaty gal like me and I like the higher waistband that also contains handy pockets for my keys and gels. The high side slit means you can’t be afraid to show quite a bit of thigh, but I’ll take the flowy fabric if it means no inner thigh bunching. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

Most of my workout accessories are random t-shirts I’ve picked up over the years at concerts, pro wrestling shows and bootleg merch sites (and then cut up into sleeveless tees), but I swear by Vuori's Ponto shorts. While I used to think any random pair of basketball shorts would do, there’s something truly perfect about these shorts’ super-smooth “Dreamknit” material. It’s soft, stretchy and it looks great, to the point where these shorts don’t look out of place when I’m at the market or anywhere else after a workout. On top of that, you get a zippered pouch in the right pocket that can store keys or wireless earbuds like the AirPods 4 I’m testing. – Henry T. Casey, electronics writer

I have a lot of complaints about many biker shorts I’ve tried, but I finally found the Goldilocks of this workout staple. I have these sustainable shorts (made with recycled plastic water bottles!) in multiple colors and they still look good as new after at least four years. They don’t ride down during my most intense dance cardio workouts and they’re thicker than most so I don’t have to worry about my underwear showing through. Plus, I don’t get the dreaded camel toe. I also appreciate the 8.5-inch length for more coverage, which is hard to find. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor

Ever since I got these stretchy cotton shorts a few months ago, I can't stop wearing them. They're great to climb and lift weights in but are also stylish enough to wear as everyday shorts. My only complaint is that they're a little tight in the thighs. — Maxwell Shukuya, associate updates writer

These Weekender shorts are a new addition to my workout wardrobe, but they’re quickly becoming a favorite. Both the inner underwear lining and the shorts themselves are breathable and I love the deep hand pockets for when I’m just strolling around. Their loose cut gives my thighs plenty of room to move while the adjustable waistband keeps them right where I want them. They’re excellent shorts for HIIT workouts, runs, light hikes or just lounging when I’m recovering between training sessions. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

I tried these Sweetflexx compression tights after they were plastered all over my Instagram feed (that’s what happens when you review fitness products!) and I was pleasantly surprised at how soft, comfy and yes, supportive they are — no matter what type of workout I'm doing. They hold everything in beautifully without feeling restrictive, plus, my bum looks pretty darn good as well (if I do say so myself). Also, I dig leggings with pockets so I can easily carry my phone when I go on runs or long walks. — Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor

When gym time rolls around, I hope and pray that these leggings are clean. I wear them for lifting sessions, cardio workouts, yoga and even under some of my other clothes when I need extra layers in the winter. I can’t stand leggings that slip down as I move — and these have always stayed put exactly where I want them. I also love the smoothing effect of the high-rise waist and the soft, breathable fit that always keeps me supported and comfy as I train. I also own the same style in shorts — you know, for when the leggings aren’t clean. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

These buttery soft leggings not only feel luxe, but they’re truly one of the only pairs of leggings that actually stay put during every downward dog or through a series of burpees and jumping jacks. I own them in two colors and keep eyeing the new ones launching. You can also shop this fabric in other styles like shorts, bras and a one-piece. I love that they come in three lengths so you can get a more custom fit, they’re moisture-wicking and have four-way stretch. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor

In the winter, these are the leggings I reach for. They’re specially designed for cold-weather workouts, so they have a brushed, almost fleece-like lining. I wore these multiple times a week while training for a half-marathon, and they always kept me warmer than other leggings. I love their adjustable waistband, so I can make sure the leggings stay up during high-intensity workouts, and the spacious zippered pockets keep my phone, keys, gels and more secure (and easily accessible). I have several pairs of these, and one pair is going on 3+ years of use. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor

I’ll be the first to admit — I really don’t enjoy working out. Yet, when my motivation is low, I can always count on a fun outfit to get me to the gym. To wit: Someone needs to study the magical, motivational powers of this Yitty bra. We recently tested the best sports bras and this stellar pick completely won me over. It’s cute, supportive (even during runs) and features a nifty crossover design that adds an extra cooling effect. I even find myself reaching for this sports bra when I’m not working out — that’s how comfy it is. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer

I’m currently obsessed with hot yoga, which is weird for someone who hates high temps. I have my ways to avoid overheating though — including wearing as little fabric as I can get away with. My favorite hot yoga clothes are a bra and a pair of biker shorts. I’m also pretty cheap so I find whatever’s highly rated yet affordable on Amazon. I’ve just recently discovered the CRZ Yoga brand, and I have to say, its Butterluxe line is aptly named. Both the bra and the shorts are soft and well-crafted, and they’re ultra stretchy too, making them great for all body types. — Michelle Rae Uy, testing writer

The companion to my beloved bike shorts, I own this supportive bra in three colors. I love them because they offer the perfect amount of compression and keep everything in place whether I’m jumping around, running or boxing. I’ve also worn the bra as a crop top at a concert, which is great in the heat since it’s made with sweat-wicking material. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor

I own this bra in several different colors because it gets the job done. I tend to not wear a shirt over this bra at the gym, and this workout essential lets me lift, run and move without fuss. It’s compressive enough to keep all the important bits secure while also not squeezing my ribs too tight. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

I’ve tried so many sports bras, but my favorite by far is the Athleta Ultimate Bra. I wear it for everything from strength training to dance cardio classes — I even wore it when I ran my first half marathon last year, as it was the only sports bra I tried that didn’t chafe near the band. I love it so much that I purchased another to add to my rotation. It comes in separate sizes for A-C and D-DD+ cup sizes, which is really helpful for those with larger chests and smaller band sizes. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor

This bra is extremely comfortable and provides medium compression without feeling like you’re suffocating. I love that it’s made in Los Angeles because I make a point of purchasing sustainable and USA-made products when I can (plus, I find nationally-crafted products like this last longer and fit better). Bette yet: It also can be worn as a crop top. I love throwing on the brand’s super-soft racerback tank over the bra for extra coverage. — Lindsey Smith, associate editor

This bright red set brings a little bit of fun to even the most unenjoyable workouts (I’m looking at you, HIIT). I’ve worn each piece practically all summer and both the bra and the leggings have remained in near perfect condition, and have yet to pill or tear. The moisture-wicking fabric keeps me feeling cool, while the double bra and tight-knit compression design provide twice the amount of support and prevent the waistband from moving. Lucky for me, the brand just dropped a new color, which is an obvious sign to buy another set. — Stephanie Griffin, Director of Social

This Athleta bra is buttery-soft and supportive, and when it comes to sports bras, there isn’t much more I can ask for. Well, maybe that they’re cute, which this one definitely is. It’s not flashy, but it has easily handled every workout I've thrown its way. And though I appreciate the three-strand design on one of the straps, what really thrills me is that I'm not constantly readjusting them throughout my workout. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

I’ve basically lived in this fashion-forward tennis dress all summer — and most of the time, I wasn’t even working out. It’s just that good. Like its name implies, it’s super soft to the touch, lightweight and breathable. The dress also features adjustable straps and built-in shorts, ensuring the utmost coverage and function. — Stephanie Griffin, Director of Social

For the past four years, this trusty skort has been with me during summer workouts and is a staple on most of my vacations. If shorts aren’t your thing, this skort is for you. The built-in biker shorts feature a rubber grip-like material to keep them from riding up and the skirt itself has zippered pockets if you want to avoid carrying a bag. I love how versatile this skort is and that it can be dressed up or down, especially in the black version. — Elena Matarazzo, associate deals editor

Popflex is my favorite activewear brand. Out of the pieces I own, this adorable and feminine skort is my favorite. The one gripe I have with most skorts is the shorts are too short and I end up getting chub rub. But this one is the perfect length, and it stays put. Also, it’s just plain fun to twirl around in. (And it’s Taylor Swift-approved!) — Lindsey Smith, associate editor

I saw these hats at Costco one day and just had to snag them up. What surprised me is how good of a workout hat it actually is. It fits well, has a decent brim to keep the sun out of my eyes and its recycled polyester and elastane blend dries incredibly quickly. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor

Weighing just 0.7 ounces, this running hat is so light that I forget I’m wearing it. It also stays relatively dry even when I’m dripping sweat at the end of my run. The only box it doesn’t check is affordability, but seeing as it's a top-tier running hat backed by a great warranty, it’s worth the investment. — Maxwell Shukuya, associate updates writer

Unless I want to constantly be wiping sweat from my face, I won’t workout without a hat. It keeps my hair up and out of the way, plus they give my face some extra sun protection during outdoor workouts. I also own the older version of this Adidas Superlite Hat, but both have a lightweight design that lets my head breathe more than any regular baseball cap I’ve ever tried. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

My general advice for any workout clothes is just wear what's comfy and don't spend big money unless you're going to get a lot of use out of it. As I've tried to become a more dedicated runner, though, I've found these socks to be worth the splurge for a pair or two. Breathable, mid-crew height, supportive but not extra thick. — Joe Bloss, associate testing writer

I’m not a runner, but I still absolutely love Feetures socks, which are made specifically with runners in mind. They have options that are great for any kind of activity, and all their socks boast performance-enhancing features like compression in the arch, sweat-wicking material and a variety of cushioning options. Plus, they all come with a lifetime guarantee. I truly notice a difference in how my always-achy feet feel when I wear these socks to workout. — Chelsea Stone, editorial director

I’ve been picking up trail running more and more recently, and one big reason why is these shoes. The upper is made from Dyneema, the world’s strongest fiber, which means these shoes are supposed to last much longer than your normal pair. I’ve been running exclusively in my Nordas for about two months now and have kicked tree roots, slipped on scree and even fallen after tripping on a rock a couple of times, and there still isn’t any wear on the uppers. The sole uses ultra-sticky Vibram and there’s plenty of cushion for long road runs, which have made them fantastic all-around running shoes. I’m planning on testing them long-term to see if the upper truly holds up, but so far, they’re my favorite running shoes of all time. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor

As someone who recently got back into basketball, I spent a lot of time looking for the right sneakers to hit the court in. I didn't want to spend a ton of money, but also wanted a pair of kicks from a reputable brand — ideally one that didn't look like it came from an alien planet. Fortunately, Nike's G.T. Cut Academy checked every box for me. These sneakers make me feel supported and light on my feet whether I'm casually shooting around or playing sweaty pickup games, and they're nice enough that I wouldn't mind wearing them out. My particular pair are technically women's sneakers but fit me perfectly. — Mike Andronico, senior tech editor

Goodr's polarized shades are advertised to be no-slip and no-bounce — and the brand is not lying. I wore them in a 5K race and didn't have to adjust them once. Any outdoor workout — running, hiking, biking, kayaking, etc. — will be a lot less squinty with a cheap pair of Goodrs, which seem to come in more styles every time I check the site. — Joe Bloss, associate testing writer