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Whether you’re pulling a Harry Styles and reaching for that PB marathon time (the One Direction star was spotted completing the Berlin marathon in an impressive 2:59:13 under the pseudonym ‘Sted Sarandos’ this weekend – well done Harry!), looking to refine your padel skills or have your sights set on a Hyrox championship, there is one thing you need – the gym kit to match.
There are plenty of activewear retailers to head to if you’re channelling that ‘all the gear and no idea’ aesthetic, your muscles are bulging out of your existing gym gear, or you actually need to invest in the proper uniform instead of a baggy T-shirt and shorts you’ll wear to the pub later on.
When it comes to shopping for the best activewear for men, comfort and support are key, and there are some retailers that do this perfectly – plus they look stylish too, which helps.
Let’s not forget that now the evenings are drawing in earlier, the temperature is dropping and daylight is dwindling as winter is ebbing closer, athleisurewear with protective details, such as reflective patches, insulation and moisture-wicking properties, are more sought after.
High street retailers such as M&S and H&M have some high quality activewear, while the usual culprits, including Nike, Reebok, Vuori, Lululemon and numerous other labels remain a reliable go-to.
Whether you are a shorts all season kinda guy like Harry, a leggings or joggers fan, prefer a loose fit t-shirt or a skintight lycra vest, the key is fabric. No matter if you are training in the scorching heat or peak winter, sweat-wicking fabrics are a gamechanger to wick moisture away from the body and help regulate your body temperature. Of course, the design needs to be supportive to see you through your workout.
We have whittled down the best activewear pieces for men to shop and smash their PB out the park à la Harry.
Shop Our Top Picks
Merrell Men’s SpeedArc Matis
A pair of supportive shoes are an essential when working out, and not just to run in. The SpeedARC™ midsole system offers cushioning and support during your walks and intense hikes. Available in a non-waterproof shell or Goretex, though we recommend the latter.
Vuori Short Sleeve Clearview Seamless Tech Tee
This is Vuori’s ‘first ever fitness tee without seams’, which is ideal for those working out a lot and susceptible to chafing that can interrupt a workout. The faux-hole texture allows your skin to breathe in a sweaty gym session. Plus, it boasts four-way stretch for an ultra-comfortable fit.
HOKA Clifton 10 Running Trainers
Now we know we suggested hiking trainers, but a pair of running trainers are equally essential – and yes, you do need a separate pair for the different workouts and terrains to offer cushioning, support, but also a lightweight design to fly around the track.
H&M Double-layered sports shorts with DryMove
If you haven’t sampled H&M’s activewear range – you need to.It’s made from top quality fabrics, supportive, and oh-so affordable. We particularly love these double layered shorts to offer support, comfort and no faux pas on the squat rack.
Lululemon Metal Vent Tech Sleeveless Shirt
If you don’t like being restricted by short or long sleeves, then a sleeveless shirt is your option. After all those hours spent in the gym, why not show off those biceps? But you can layer under, or over, a long sleeve layer for added insulation.
On Running Weather Jacket Insulated
Working out all weather requires you to layer up to shield from the elements, and this weather Jacket gets our seal of approval. It’s lightweight to wear when running without weighing you down, but it’s also weatherproof so you won’t be drenched after running in the rain (come summer or winter – we live in the UK after all).
Nike Dri-FIT T-shirt
We own almost everything at Nike, and it’s the one stop shop we rely on for all our sports attire. The Dri-FIT range is ultra soft on the skin and comfortable to wear all seasons and for all activities, plus it’s sweat-wicking, which helps cool you down post-workout.
Reebok Mens Reebok 3 Pack Trunks
It’s all well and good having all the layers to see you through your workout, but you also need comfortable underwear too.
M&S Colour Block Half Zip Top
M&S’ own activewear range is not one to be sleeping on. One item that has remained in our activewear wardrobe for years is a Half Zip Top. It’s perfect to wear working out for extra warmth and coverage, whether it’s in the gym, on a run or a padel court, spring, summer or winter.
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