28 Workout Clothes And Accessories The BuzzFeed Shopping Team Swears By

Pieces that ~worked out~ for us, so they'll ~work~ for you, too.

Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women’s.

1. Girlfriend Collective high rise compression leggings made from recycled water bottles, so you can look good *and* feel great about the activewear you put on your body.

Samantha Tomaszewski / BuzzFeed, Melanie Aman / BuzzFeed

Girlfriend Collective is a favorite on our team — I actually have three pairs of these leggings and love them so much. They are compressive without making my legs feel like sausages and stay in place during my most intense workouts. I've been recommending them to all my friends because they leggings (and the company behind them) are great.

"Right off the bat, I was impressed by how buttery soft these leggings were. They're super stretchy (definitely squat-proof!) and supportive without being constricting. And at $68, they're a total steal given how high-quality they are. I usually wear them for low-impact workouts, like Pilates and yoga (and lounging on the couch), but they didn't let me down during high-impact HIIT cardio classes either. The material is really breathable so even though I'm sweating a lot during my workouts, the leggings don't get swampy." —Melanie Aman

Get them from Girlfriend Collective for $68 (available in sizes XXS-6X, three lengths, and 13 colors).

And read Melanie's full review of Girlfriend Collective's leggings here.

2. A cropped tank top with a built-in bra great for keeping you in place and comfortable during yoga and Pilates — or even when you're not working out at all.

amazon.com, amazon.com

I ordered this top a few months ago after seeing so many Tik Toks about it to see what the hype was all about, and, let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The top is so comfortable and hits right where my high-waisted leggings end, which means there's no extra fabric around my waist. The top is great for low-impact workouts — but I also love to wear it every day because it eliminates the need to wear a sports bra and a tank top, so it's perfect to layer under sweatshirts and even sweaters.

Get it from Amazon for $23.99 (available in sizes S-XXL and in 19 colors).

3. Adidas Cloudfoam running sneakers with the word "cloud" in the name, so you know that they're going to be comfortable. You don't even have to be a runner to enjoy these babies. They're also great for just running errands or going for a walk.

amazon.com, amazon.com

"I own a black pair of these and they're seriously one of the comfiest friggin' sneakers I've ever worn (the other is a pair of New Balance) in my 28 years of life. The 'Cloudfoam' insole really does make it feel like your feet are walking on clouds. I thought that feeling might go away after several months of wear but the sneakers remain fluffy and relaxing. The sneakers were so comfortable that I started wearing them to the gym, to work, and even matching them with cute dresses for going-out looks. You'll probably want to order two pairs of these babies so you don't wear out a single pair after you fall in love. I bought my mom a pair as well." —Marquaysa Battle

Get it from Amazon for $43.38 (available in sizes 5–12 and 35 colors).

4. Spanx high-waisted leggings so great you might climb a mountain *just* to ~shout from the mountain tops~ about how amazing these stretchy, comfortable, no-roll-waistband leggings are.

Elizabeth Lilly / BuzzFeed

"This was me hiking last summer in Santorini posing for a photo op. It felt like a looong hike (I don't hike often, OK?). Despite POURING In sweat and walking up pretty steep inclines, my leggings did not bunch or roll. I've worn them what I guess is 50+ times since both for running errands in my hood and for actual workouts. They're super comfy, wash well (I send them out for wash and fold laundry service, which can be rough on clothes), are seamless all over, and flatten the look of my stomach (if that's a concern) without making me feeling like I'm in a sausage casing. They're my nicest pair of leggings and honestly, I could wear them almost every day in quarantine. And if anyone is wondering, I bought an Oreo ice cream sandwich and wine at the end of that picturesque hike." —Elizabeth Lilly

Get them from Spanx for $78 (available in sizes XS-3X) or Amazon for $66.98+ (available in sizes XS-3X and in 11 colors and patterns).

5. An Under Armour sports bra to provide you with full coverage and enough support that you won't have to think twice about your bouncing boobs when heading out for a jog.

amazon.com, Amazon

"Running with boobs can be a struggle that only a really good sports bra can alleviate. I love this Under Armour bra because it provides full coverage, solid support, and it's very comfortable. I personally don't like wearing padded sports bras, so this one is perfect for me. It's also more affordable than most other sports bras I've tried in the past, so I can buy a few and rotate them without having to worry about constantly doing the laundry." —Hannah Loewentheil

Get it from Amazon for $28 (available in sizes XS–XL and 17 colors).

6. Wolven crossover leggings (with pockets), or the LBD of activewear that you'll want to have in your closet forever because not only are the super comfortable, but they'll make you feel like a million bucks.

Ali Faccenda / BuzzFeed

BTW — Wolven is a WOC-founded business that creates sustainable activewear and swimwear. The clothes are made from fabric from recycled plastic water bottles and the patterns come from geometry found in nature. Plus, for every sale, Wolven removes one pound of waste from the ocean.

"I've seen crossover style leggings all over my For You Page on TikTok and they look so CUTE on everyone who wears them. These mayyyyy just be my new fave leggings. They're high-waisted (legit the only kind I like) and have pockets on both sides which is perfect if I'm taking my dogs for a walk or running an errand and want to keep my phone on me at all times. I love where these hit me on my waist and honestly, these make me want to throw all my old leggings in the trash. If you're in the market for new leggings, I HIGHLY recommend you give these a whirl." —Ali Faccenda

Get them from Wolven for $98 (available in sizes XS-XXL and in seven colors).

7. A medium-support sports bra I'm pretty sure could win a best-supporting actor award because it will be there for you just as much as the sidekick BFF in your favorite rom-com.

Abby Kass / BuzzFeed, Old Navy

I have to be honest with you, I was sleeping on Old Navy activewear. I'd heard so many great things, but I had a not-so-great experience last year when I tried to buy the cheapest workout clothes to get me through what I thought was going to be a two-week quarantine. But I gave the brand another chance, and I am SO glad I did. The Powersoft collection is where it's at. I got this sports bra (and the matching leggings) a couple of months ago, and I wear the set all the time. The bra is super supportive, and I grab it when I'm about to do a HIIT or dance class. And the pattern is so cute too. This is a great option, especially if you're on a budget.

Get it from Old Navy for $18 (originally $29.99; available in sizes XS-XXL and in seven colors and patterns).

8. A pair of seamless bike shorts one BuzzFeed editor swears feel like you're basically wearing nothing, which is one of the best qualities in a piece of workout gear, if you ask me.

Emma Lord/BuzzFeed

"These shorts come in a bazillion rotating colors because they sell out so quickly you might blink and miss them. I own a pair in pink (that is me being v cheeky above) and can confirm that they are so comfortable that I genuinely had to look down and make sure I wasn't naked a few times, but still opaque enough to venture out into the world without worrying about everyone seeing your booty. I probably own 10 pairs of bike shorts now (don't look at me), and these are the comfiest by far." —Emma Lord

Get them from Free People for $20 (available in sizes XS-L and 23 colors and patterns).

9. Opaque leggings so you can do as many squats as your thighs can take without fear that anyone around you will see what color underwear you're wearing.

amazon.com, amazon.com

"I am wearing these leggings right now as I write this. They are soft, not too thick, and are not at all see-through. In fact, the only thing I asked for last Christmas was three pairs of these leggings — and urged my mom to get them for my sisters as well. I'm a big fan!" —Heather Braga

Get it from Amazon for $13.99 (available in women's one size and plus size and in 53 colors, lengths, and styles).

10. A set of workout-friendly socks made with extra cushion in the sole and toe, arch support, *and* moisture-wicking yarn, so, yeah, this sock can basically do it all during your workout.

Emma Lord/BuzzFeed

"I initially bought these for running, since I was sick of spending so much money on 'blister-proof' fancy socks and a ton of reviewers mentioned that these worked just as well. Not only did I find that to be true (even though I am a VERY blister-prone individual), they are also just so freaking soft. I spend all day in them in my apartment now and get mad when they're in the laundry. If you want to up your sock game ... these are the pairs." —Emma Lord

Get a set of six from Amazon for $14.95+ (available in sizes S-XL and four color combos).

11. An Outdoor Voices exercise dress you can wear to play tennis, go hiking, or basically any other activity. Dresses can be workout gear, too.

Rachel Dunkel / BuzzFeed

I also own this dress, and I have to agree with everything Rachel says about it. I've worn it a few times to play tennis, and the bodysuit with shorts underneath make it super easy to hold extra balls. It is a bit of a hassle to go to the bathroom — but it's worth it for how cute and comfortable this number is.

"I wore the exercise dress on a camping trip and absolutely loved it. It's tight enough that you feel agile but not SO tight that it's restricting. It was great for hiking, too! I even scaled some big ole' rocks and exposed mountain faces, and it fared really well. Despite me literally sliding down a giant rock on my butt, the dress never got caught, ripped, or showed wear. It's a trooper." —Rachel Dunkel

Get it from Outdoor Voices for $100 (available in sizes XS–XL and seven colors and patterns).

12. Allbirds Tree Dashers specifically designed with natural materials that allow your feet to breathe as you run for as long (or as little) as you want.

Allbirds

"Without access to the gym, I had to push myself to learn to run while safely social distancing (which is NOT an easy feat). I’ve had multiple foot injuries (I’m very accident-prone) so choosing the right sneaker has been a challenge. I’ve tried out manyyyy different pairs but the only ones that have truly won over my heart are the Allbirds Dashers. I got them in a stunning mint green color and get tons of compliments on them. They’re super supportive, lightweight, and have held up great against months of running outdoors. Honestly, I’m already looking into buying a second pair" —Heather Braga

Get them from Allbirds for $125 (available in sizes 5-11 and in 17 colors).

13. Zella high-waisted pocket, crop leggings here to make it super easy for you go for a run because you'll have a place to stash your keys and phone while leaving your hands free.

Nordstrom

"I have a bit of an obsession with leggings, and if you look in my closet you'll find far too many pairs. These Zellas are my favorite for running in particular. I love how the material is very stretchy but it doesn't feel at all flimsy, and it really allows your body to move. Unlike some leggings, they don't stretch out much as you wear them and they also don't shrink much after each wash." —Hannah Loewentheil

Get it from Nordstrom for $55 (available in sizes XXS–XXL and seven colors).

14. A longline sports bra everyone will be eyeing during your virtual yoga class — be careful, you may get a lot of messages afterward asking you where you got it from.

amazon.com, amazon.com

After writing about this sports bra for so long and seeing the number of five-star reviews increasing, I decided to try it out myself. I first got it in black and liked it so much that I've gone back to purchase it in multiple colors (and am currently considering more). It is SO comfortable and soft. I wear the black one with a pair of Lululemon leggings, and honestly, they feel about the same. It is super supportive, and I really like the extra length because I like having that little bit of extra coverage. I've worn it for yoga and cardio classes, and it's just as great for both. I highly recommend this sports bra, especially for the price.

Get it from Amazon for $28 (available in sizes XS-XL and in 29 colors and patterns).

15. A pair of Lululemon yoga leggings that actually live up to the hype because not only do they feel like butter, but they support you while you move while also making you feel like you're basically wearing nothing at all. Trust me — you're going to want to get your hands on a pair of these.

Lululemon

"I don't know what kind of witchcraft was necessary to create these leggings, but they are damn near the softest thing I've ever worn. I will admit that I bought these to be lounge leggings, so I can't vouch for them during workouts — but they have more than 4,000 5-star reviews from some very satisfied customers so you'll have to take their word for it."—Melanie Aman

Get them from Lululemon for $98+ (available in sizes 0–20, three lengths, and 10 colors and patterns).

16. Brooks Revel 3 running shoes designed to be super lightweight so it almost feels like you're running on ~air~.

Brooks

"I've gone through a lot of running shoes in my life, but these I especially love because they are ridiculously lightweight and have just enough cushion to feel supported on runs without feeling too squishy. They're so comfortable that it's pretty much the closest I've come to running while feeling like I'm not wearing shoes at all. They've also pretty much stopped any knee pain I used to get while running, as an added bonus!"—Emma Lord

Get them from Amazon for $100+ (available in sizes 5-12 and in 15 colors).

17. A seamless bra and high-waisted leggings set made with 13% Spandex, so it won't be a ~stretch~ to say that this will be your go-to favorite outfit in no time.

Abby Kass / BuzzFeed

I learned about Roam Loud from a suggestion in a Facebook workout group that I'm in. I was eager to try the gear, as it's relatively inexpensive and Black-woman owned. I mean a bra and leggings for less than $100 is a pretty good deal in my book. The set is a little different color than it looks on the website, but it's still a rich blue that looks really good. I've worn it a few times to take pretty intense HIIT and weight-lifting classes, and it has held up great. It makes me feel confident and strong — and the color really doesn't show sweat stains (the picture above was taken not long after I finished my workout). I opted to size up, but both the leggings are bra are so stretchy, that your regular size will work.

Get the set from Roam Loud for $70 (available in sizes S-L).

18. A pair of booty shorts specifically designed to wick away sweat so you can go for a long hike, lift weights, or even take a swim while keeping your comfort level at 100%.

Harper Hendrickson / BuzzFeed

"I sweat into these *a lot* last summer and they dried super quickly while I was hiking around Joshua Tree. I also wore them swimming for the same reason! And I wore these shorts while skateboarding when it was 100+ degrees outside, they helped keep me cool and free from being soaked in my own sweat. They hold up in the wash as well, I definitely put these through the wringer and recommend them." —Harper Hendrickson

Get them from Amazon for $26 (available in men's sizes S-L and 13 colors and patterns).

19. A graphic print sports bra you'll be ~v~ excited to show off to all your friends because not only is it really pretty, but it's also made from recycled plastic bottles and spandex, so it's comfortable *and* supportive. You'll be able to hit every pose in your next yoga class (even the really challenging ones, I'm looking at you, crow pose!!).

Genevieve Scarano / BuzzFeed

BTW — Onzie is a female-founded apparel brand based in LA that makes colorful activewear, loungewear, and workout-friendly onesies.

"I have this sports bra and I've worn it countless times for low impact activities (see me wearing it above during an indoor yoga session). Even though it doesn't have full padding, it *still* provides great support during my workouts. It doesn't cut into my shoulders or feel too tight on my chest while I switch poses. It's also made with sustainable materials, which is definitely a plus when it comes to activewear." —Genevieve Scarano

Get it from Onzie for $52 (available in sizes S–L).

20. Saucony running shoes with an extra padded insole, great for anyone who is prone to shin-splints because that shouldn't be a thing that happens when you go for a run.

Amazon

"I've had these sneakers for about a month and can't believe I was walking around wearing anything else. I can tell the cushioning in these bad boys absorbs impact and reduces pressure because I am very prone to shin splints, but have yet to experience that while sporting these on my daily half-hour power-walks." —Taylor Steele

Get them from Amazon for $39.65+ (available in sizes 5-12 both regular and wide and in 10 colors).

21. A pair of seamless leggings with the power to make you feel like a true fitness influencer. The ribbed knit is supportive and made to elongate your legs, so you'll def take a mirror pic (or two) while wearing them.

Jasmin Sandal / BuzzFeed

BTW —Stax is an Australian-based business founded in 2012 to create trendy clothes that mix fitness and fashion!

"Sound the alarms, people, because I think I've found my dream pair of athleisure. Here's the rundown: these high-waisted leggings (or as they call them on their site: tights) are incredibly deceiving when they first arrive — they appeared to be quite shrunken in the package — but trust me, these mold to your body and have enough stretch that works great for curves. I was sent a sample and am just truly in love with the compression! Since quarantine began, I've been after a cute pair of leggings that would support me and have the ability to be worn for multiple activities. And folks, these are IT. I'm also a sucker for a matching set — grab the seamless crop top here! " —Jasmin Sandal

Get them from Stax for $59 (available in sizes XS–2XL).

22. A pair of bike shorts for such a steal you might want to go ahead and just add two to your cart now — you'll thank me later.

amazon.com, amazon.com

"I bought these for running last month and WHOOPS, I wear them all the time. Very comfortable, just the right amount of compression, and they wash up really nicely." —Emma Lord

Get them from Amazon for $20.99+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and in 43 colors, prints, and lengths).

23. A tank top and legging matching set you'll feel so ~fly~ in that I bet you'll set a new PR in your cycling class or even feel so ~zenned~ out after a yoga class.

Rachel Dunkel / BuzzFeed, Abby Kass / BuzzFeed

I was fully influenced to buy this set after Rachel recommended it for a post a while ago. I was curious to see how it felt — and I was not disappointed. This set is SO soft. These are probably two of the softest pieces of workout clothes I own, and I'm totally okay with that. The leggings are truly high-waisted, and the bra is longer, so I feel completely covered. I wear this set a lot for yoga and then end up not changing out of it for the rest of the day because it is just so comfortable. But you could totally wear it for other types of workouts, too. It's a bit of a splurge, but the quality and softness make it totally worth it, in my opinion.

Get the outfit from Backcountry for $56.10+ (for the top; originally $66; available in sizes XS-XL and in six colors) and $67.90+ (for the leggings; originally $97; available in sizes XS-XXL and in eight colors) or Beyond Yoga for $66 (for the top; available in sizes XS-3X and in 20 colors) and $97 (for the leggings; available in sizes XXS-3X and in 19 colors).

24. A pair of period-proof underwear made to hold up to two tampons' worth of blood, which means you won't have to deal with uncomfy tampons or pads during your workout.

amazon.com

P.S. Reviewers rave about this underwear but do say that they run small, so order one size up!

"They're also ideal for overnight protection (you can pair them with a pad if you have a heavy flow) and for people who are worried about leakage during sports or physical activities — I personally always wear either these period-proof undies when I go on runs on my period, and it has been a MASSIVE godsend. Also, unlike your regular undies, you don't have to scrub the blood out of these — they're designed so it rinses right out in the sink with soap and warm water, and can get tossed in the washer and dryer from there." —Emma Lord

Get it from Amazon for $14.90+ (available in sizes XS-6XL and in 11 colors and varieties).

25. High-waisted leggings that come in both short and long lengths, so you can get the right fit for you because your height shouldn't stop you from getting these perfect leggings.

Heather Braga / BuzzFeed, Aerie

"During this entire year (wow) of working from home I have made it a personal goal to find the BEST black leggings of all time. The GOAT of leggings. And for me, Aerie's are IT! Between this style and their crossover pair, I've been wearing mostly these "to work" for 12 months. I own multiple black pairs and love that they come in short lengths! A game-changer for me! These are the most affordable of all the leggings I've tried and loved — I simply cannot recommend them enough." —Heather Braga

Get them from Aerie for $44.95 (available in sizes 2XS–2XL, in regular, long, and short lengths, and in five colors).

26. A Girlfriend Collective Paloma bra designed with a band across the bottom for extra support you need in any medium-impact workouts. Plus, it's so cute, you may just want to wear it even if you're not working out.

Girlfriend Collective, Abby Kass / BuzzFeed

Okay, so yes, I did start this article with Girlfriend Collective, but this brand is so good that I *also* need to profess my love for this sports bra. I've tried a number of different bras from this brand, but this one is my tried-and-true favorite. It's simple yet highly effective. I can wear it for both cardio and weight lifting classes and feel comfortable the entire time. Plus, it's super cute and the longer length really does add some extra support. It's so easy to grab with the matching leggings and be ready for my workout in seconds. I will shout my love for Girlfriend Collective from the mountain tops becasue it really is that great. Seriously, go get yourself this bra.

Get it from Girlfriend Collective for $38 (available in sizes XXS-6XL and in 12 colors).

27. A simple pair of black leggings you really can never go wrong with — even if your closet is full of black leggings. One can really never have enough black leggings for working out, especially when the price is this great.

amazon.com

"Ordering leggings online can be a hit or miss because they may be too thin, too small, or not stretchy enough — no one wants to go through the trouble of returning a measly pair of terrible leggings. But these are perfect! They're thick enough that they won't show your underwear, and soft and stretchy enough to let you feel like you can move more freely. The waist band on these leggings are a little more firm than the bands on most others, which is great for making sure they stay in place. Because of this, I suggest sizing up if you want the most comfortable fit. The size I bought was comfy enough for me to keep them, but if I were to re-purchase, I would order the next size up." —Jasmin Suknanan

Get them from Amazon for $9.20+ (available in sizes S-2XL and in 26 colors).

28. And a houndstooth sports bra and legging set all your followers will be ~hounding~ you for the deets on where you got it as soon as you post your sweaty selfie.

Terez

I own this set, and it's currently one of my favorites. The pattern is ah-mazing. Just loud and fun enough to wear all the time without feeling like I'm being "too extra" while I workout. The leggings have a bit of compression to them, and the bra holds me in pretty well. I feel like a superstar when I put on this set. Yes, it's a bit of a splurge, but I def think the quality of the pieces makes it worth it. I can see myself wearing this for a long time.

Get the set from Terez: $65 (for the bra; available in women's sizes XS-XL) and $100 (for the leggings; availabe in women's sizes XXS-XL).

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.