27 Fitness Products From REI That People Actually Swear By

Running, cycling, kayaking, climbing, basically you name it and there's stuff here for ya'.

1. High-waist leggings made from super soft jersey you can wear now while you're WFH indefinitely, during all your home workouts, and then when we're all roaming around in public again. (I call this my Saturday errand uniform.)

REI

Promising review: "These are my favorite workout pants yet. The first thing I noticed about them, was the thickness of the material, and how supportive it was while still remaining breathable. This is the biggest differentiator from the competition. The high waist fit perfectly where I usually run into issues with waists being too tight or too loose because of my stronger thighs. The high waist also does not give you the camel toe effect that so many other 'like' leggings do. CT is a deal-breaker! I wore these pants in a variety of workouts (yoga, running, hiking, boxing, lifting), and I was impressed with the flexibility, support, and comfort during each. I would buy these pants and other like products for all future exercise clothing needs." —magnufun

Price: $51.69 (available in sizes XS-XL)

2. Body Glide, a stick of anti-chafing balm, to apply most anywhere that skin on skin or skin on clothing/shoes tends to rub whenever you're moving.

REI

I've used this stuff to combat inner-thigh cafe and BOY does it work. It's made with aloe vera and vitamin E, and is fragrance-free, petroleum-free, hypoallergenic, non-greasy, non-staining, and water- and sweat-resistant.

Promising review: "I never go on a kayak expedition without it!!! Sounds gross but my armpits get raw from paddling on long trips. The sweating and rubbing of fabric can make life unbearable. This product is a protective layer and preserves the skin and has no odor. I paddled one time without it, forgot it, and was hating life. Any friction problems walking, running, or paddling will be loved by all. There are no drawbacks other than not having it when you are in great pain or discomfort. Buy it and thank me later!!!!" —skippy

Price: $10

Also check out Body Glide for her and Foot Glide.

3. A grid foam roller that'll target those muscles you've just worked to help ease soreness later. Perhaps even soreness from staying parked on your couch during your work day, eh?

REI

Promising review: "I've been getting into much better shape recently, and pushing myself cross training between trail running, yoga, circus arts, and weightlifting. I'm continuously finding this roller is much more effective than the softer foam ones, yet not as painful as the bumpy plastic ones, and I love the ability to use the different sections for targeted pressure or not. My favorite thing about it is that because it's hollow I take it with me traveling and can pack things inside of it. Flying long distances is a lot more comfortable when I can roll out the aches and pains after landing! Love this, and am so glad I got this one versus a simple foam one." —DCdeskwarrior

Price: $34.95 (also available in black)

4. Vuori joggers made of quick-drying, four-way stretch polyester to get you through tons and tons of workouts... and days of comfy social-distancing.

REI

Promising review: "Finally, a pant exists for men that women have had for years. This is a male yoga pant that fits great, incredibly comfortable, and functional. In my one week I've owned them, I've gone to the gym, went on a run, and have been using them as pajamas. They are simply jogger sweatpants with highly functional/stretchy fabric. Hands down the most comfortable pant I own.

I have relatively thick legs and big butt (don't skip leg day). I initially bought a medium, which fit well in the waist and legs, but turned out to be too long of an inseam. I swapped them out for a small. Fits fine in the waist, probably because this material is super stretchy, and fits great in the legs and is the perfect length.

I've never written a review before, but feel these pants deserved one." —bschaef

Price: $84 (available in four colors and men's sizes S-XXL; also available in women's sizes XS-XL)

5. A tasc Performance T-shirt that'll wick moisture, keep you cool, let you move freely in four-way stretch fabric, AND protect your skin with UPF 50+. But yeah, you still need sunscreen on your neck and exposed skin!

REI

Promising review: "Like the title, this is a performance shirt and perform is what it does very well. No top seam, no possible chafing; light, no restriction, no getting weighed down with perspiration. The shirt handled leg day as well or better than anything I've worn in the past. It also washed up very nicely retaining its shape. This shirt looks so good I will likely wear it outside the gym after winter passes. Unless of course global warming takes a firm grip on things and we don't have winter. Then I'll wear it sooner." —Anonymous

Price: $38 (available in sizes S-XXL and nine colors)

6. Super comfy running socks with ventilated and cushioned construction where you need it, when you need it.

REI

Promising review: "These are the best socks ever. I have gone through so many different pairs to find the right ones. What is nice about these are that if you pick the right size they will never slip down into your shoes. Size true to size. Also we have a big-time runner in the family and I have been buying these for him for six years now and they still wear great. Wash and dry, still stay in shape." —margie1

Price: $13 (available in four color combos and men's sizes S-XL)

7. A cane-style massager to help work out that knot you can't reach with your mere human arms.

REI

Promising review: "I'm a runner, and I also work on my feet all day. I have purchased many stretching/muscle relief items over the years and this is by far my favorite! You can target a specific area with as little or much pressure as necessary. The fact that it's small and portable is a bonus! Buy this now, you won't be mad you did." —bellzdeeep

Price: $19.95

8. La Sportiva climbing shoes because you can't wait to get back to the climbing gym with your buds. Might as well gear up now!

REI

Promising review: "I wanted to finally get my own shoes instead of renting at the gym. I usually wear a 12.5 in street shoes but I'm flat-footed on my left foot. This has given me no amount of trouble when it comes to finding a climbing shoe that fits both feet. Initially purchased this shoe in a 45 and couldn't wear it for more than 10-15 minutes at a time. Exchanged it for a 45.5 and I'm very satisfied.

As an inexperienced climber, I love how sticky the rubber is. Very reliable and comfortable as far as climbing shoes go. Being able to trust my shoe has given me more confidence to practice techniques that troubled me and attack harder routes at the gym.." —LMS331

Price: $190 (available in men's EU sizes 36-46)

9. And lightweight belay gloves that'll come in handy in case your fave way of breaking a sweat entails belaying, rappelling, aid climbing, and other climb-y activities.

REI

Promising review: "I bought a pair of these in May to be used during geological exploration. I have Nnever found a pair of gloves that could take the abuse I throw at them as well as these have, while still giving me the manual dexterity I want. I wear them hiking in rough terrain and they've saved my hands from many cuts and scrapes, while handling rocks and equipment, when the weather gets cooler. Unfortunately my pair is starting to get ragged, but they are still in serviceable shape and I fully intend to buy a new pair soon." —Realcanadian

Price: $39.95 (available in unisex sizes XS-XL)

10. A climbing lotion bar to help you take care of those hands that do all sorts of wonderful things for you. Plus the tiny tin makes it super easy to carry around with you!

REI

I protects and moisturizes dry or chapped skin, making it ideal for climbers, skiers. and mountaineers. It's made of grapeseed oil, apricot kernel oil, beeswax, wheat germ oil, essential oils and vitamins A, C and E

Promising review: "I climb several times a week in the gym and my callouses used to be frayed and susceptible to tearing. This conditions my skin and callouses so they no longer fray or tear. I used to also be plagued with hang nails and this has solved that problem as well." —LaRoe

Price: $7.73

11. An Electra women's bike built for leisurely rides. I can already see you riding this on your way to a picnic in a few months!

REI

Promising review: "This bike is an actual dream come true, I was born with cerebral palsy. I grew up seeing all the other kids able to ride a bike and me sitting on the sidelines holding back tears because I couldn’t ride. Fast forward 30 years later I was introduced to the Townie. This bike was the only one able to be modified with adult stabilizers and one that I could get my leg over successfully all by myself. Being able to ride a bike is so exhilarating, very freeing. I’ve never experienced anything quite like it. I’m now up to riding 26 miles on a rail to trails paved route in my city. Riding does the heart good and puts the biggest smile on my face. So don’t ever let someone tell you that you can’t and don’t tell yourself that because anything is possible." —Simply Southern

Price: $539.95 (available in seven colors)

12. A Showers Pass cycling jacket to keep you dry and a preferable temp while doing your thang, thanks to a three-layer waterproof, breathable nylon ripstop and fully taped seams.

REI

Promising review: "I wore my Elite 2.1 jacket in a downpour on my morning ride this today. I have had at least four other jackets that were purported to be rain jackets but didn't come close. The Elite 2.1 jacket kept me warm and dry. (other than the sleeves leaking a little) I am very impressed with this jacket. I should have bought it years ago instead of wasting my money on inferior products." —Jeff K.

Price: $269 (available in women's sizes S-XXL; also available in men's sizes S, XL)

13. A Terry bike top made with rear pockets and sun protective fabric to keep you comfy while you log some miles.

REI

Promising review: "I ride my bike with a friend who has two of these tops and she highly recommends them. I was skeptical due to the lightweight fabric. But it is much like the sun shade fabric on my arm covers, light and airy, but still quite warm. Since I ride my bike in San Diego sun most days, the sun coverage is wonderful. I love it and will most likely buy another, if they make it in red." —Lady red

Price: $46.83+ (available in six color combos and women's sizes XS-XXL)

14. An aerodynamic bike helmet with tons of ventilation to keeping you looking and feeling cool while helping protect that noggin.

REI

Promising review: "So, I was a bit leery of ordering such an expensive item. I am super happy with this helmet and would highly recommend it, and purchase one again. The fit for me is super comfortable! No pinching, binding, very adjustable and at times I forget I have it on. It also does not interfere with my glasses which my prior helmet did.

This helmet is super cool in hot weather (headed to Kentucky for a tour where it was much hotter than MI) and I get comments everywhere I go about how cute it is, where did I get it, etc. More than worth the $$. Ride on." —Chickie

Price: $124.73 (available in three colors and sizes S, M)

15. A YETI waterproof gear case you can use on hikes, kayaking excursions, camping, cycling... seriously, there are so many uses. And in case you're wondering, it uses magnets to get that 100% watertight seal.

REI

Promising review: "I bought this product to take on my paddle board. It holds much more than I expected. Usually I carry my phone, keys, sunscreen, a snack and a friend's phone and keys. Easy to open but completely waterproof. Much better than a dry bag." —Ashevillemom

Price: $49.98 (available in four colors)

16. A ~cooling~ Columbia top in a lightweight fabric and UPF 50 protection for quick-drying protection from the mid-day sun.

REI

Promising review: "I'm VERY fair skinned and training for a full marathon. This shirt offers PERFECT protection and moisture wicking performance for my long runs in the southern California sun. I've been searching for a long sleeve running shirt that protects me from the sun and keeps me cool, and this is hands down my favorite shirt. I bought this in EVERY color. I also used it recently on long hikes in Kauai, and it worked so well keeping me cool in hot, humid temperatures. In addition, it kept my skin from burning with a UV index of 12! Fits me loosely- I purchased a size medium. I'm 5-foot-7 and 150 lbs." —Laurissa

Price: $33.69 (also available in teal and women's sizes XS-XL)

17. La Sportiva men's hiking boots that'll be super breathable and comfy. In fact, you may forget about them while you're enjoying some breathtaking views (and that's a good thing IMO).

REI

Promising review: "I bought these on a whim to do a quick 20 mile weekend trip, 10 up and 10 down (who breaks in a pair of boots like that?). Forecast was rain non-stop. We spent both days in pouring rain. The trail was most of the time a 3-inch running creek, river crossings with swollen rivers, stepping stones no longer visible. I crossed one swollen river and the water went clear to the top of this boot and had to stand there quite a while to regain my balance.

Anyway, not one sore or 'hotspot' anywhere — and I was the only one to return with dry socks...UNBELIEVABLE!!! Amazing boots...." —Clif

Price: $128.73 (available in men's EU sizes 39-44)

18. Salomon women's trail-running shoes for solid traction on wet or dry terrain.

REI

Promising review: "Just hiked 166 miles on the Camino de Santiago and these were perfect! They were comfy and supportive. No blisters or hot spots. An unexpected bonus was how quickly they dried. We experienced a couple of very severe downpours during our trip. My shoes were completely soaked as we were forced to wade through rushing water (very unusual for the Camino!). By morning, the shoes were merely damp and, after walking in them for a few hours, they dried on their own, from the heat generated by my feet. Awesome!" —Jennifer

Price: $87.37 (available in three colors combos and women's sizes 6-11)

19. A running hat with a gorgeous view of Mount Fuji. Who said your workout ensemble has to be boring? Not I!

REI

Plus, it features soft mesh, a foldable bill, and a simple bungee closure to make it incredibly good-looking AND useful.

Promising review: "I'm a guy and I bought this hat for traveling in Southeast Asia, and it has been perfect for walking around and biking in 90+ degree Fahrenheit weather. It's super comfortable and lightweight. I just stuff it in my backpack in the morning and it takes minimal space and when I pull it out later for the sun, it still looks good and not all crumpled up. It dries really fast too after getting it all sweaty, and easy to rinse and clean. This is going to be my new hiking/backpacking hat!" —Mike

Price: $32

20. A running stroller that'll keep your little one safe and contained while you do some group fitness together. It even has mountain-bike suspension so you'll be able to easily maneuver over stuff that isn't your typical cul-de-sac route.

REI

Promising review: "Wow! I can’t say enough on this stroller. The BOB Revolution Felx 3.0 is the easiest stroller to maneuver. I took it on light jogs, around town, at the shopping mall and at the park. It was so easy to fold and load in and out of my SUV.

My little boy stays nice and comfortable in the seat. I knew he was safe with the easy to use five-point harness. He was so comfortable as i jogged around the block. Now I can’t wait to take him with me in this stroller as I start training for my race!" —FitRoxy

Price: $450+ (also available in red)

21. A zippered running belt to help you hang onto the essentials while you go the distance.

REI

Promising review: "I run about 4 miles per day, three to four days per week. I used to carry my water bottle in one hand and cell phone in the other. If I put my cell phone is my running shorts, it would wobble around and throw off my rhythm. I tried on an armband but my arm would feel constricted. This belt has been my best friend. I got the one with the zipper because I feel it's safer and if the elastic opening wears out, at least you still have a zipper (the elastic opening has not worn out yet). I have an iPhone 7 in an OtterBox Defender case and it fits in the zipper compartment. It's not noticeable around my waist and covered by my shirt. I love it and would recommend it to anyone." —NLV888

Price: $34.95 (available in unisex sizes S-L; also check out the brand's classic running belt)

22. A Manduka yoga block made of recycled foam to assist you during your at-home workouts. Sure, your home gym doesn't have all the bells and whistles, but you can easily snag this!

REI

Promising review: "The yoga studio I go to uses this block so I thought I would buy a couple for my home practice. Love the height and width of it. Comfortable to use whether I'm propping a hand, hip, or forehead." —Angie

Price: $18

23. prAna men's climbing shorts sustainably made from hemp and recycled polyester and, tbh, look nice enough to wear when you're not working out. We love a versatile piece of athleisure!!!

REI

Promising review: "These shorts are (or I should say were) not my style. Although, they were hanging in the changing room and in my size. After trying them on, I experienced the comfort vortex that once you are in, one cannot escape. I got the pants version as well." —Ira8791

Price: $65 (available in five color combos and men's sizes S-XL)

Check out the pants in inseams 30-inch, 32-inch, and 34-inch.

24. A mini massage ball for helping you get at those little areas that tend to irritate you the most after a HIIT workout. Or even just sitting at your desk all day.

REI

Promising review: "I bought the larger Pro-Tec ball some time ago. It's great for hamstrings especially. This smaller ball is feather light for travel and the right size for lower back massage, lying on your side. It has the perfect blend of firmness and give, pressing on the muscles without bruising. With practice it's also good for neck release. I use it daily at home and won't travel without it." —Altra convert

Price: $14.95

25. A hydration vest with designated spots for a flask, outer layers, and all other kinds of knick-knacks.

REI

Promising review: "I purchased this pack for training/racing in a desert situation which requires that I carry 7 to 8 L of water between aid points. This pack handles the liquid volume well. I love the extra back pockets as they allow me to distribute my load more evenly. I find the front storage more then ample to hold my immediate necessities and the 10 L capacity is large enough for me to fit my nutrition/gear. The Center back pocket is perfect for those items I don’t want to dig in the larger compartment for. For sizing, I’m able to get an exact for my adjusting the side straps and front fasteners whist I’m running." —ThePhoenixRunning

Price: $79.95 (available in unisex sizes S-L)

26. A Vuori performance T-shirt with a cute lil' pocket to pair with your workout gear (and decidedly NOT-workout gear).

REI

Promising review: "I have a hard time finding dri-fit shirts that fit me well due to their tendency to hug the hips tightly and my wider hips. This shirt drapes very nicely and looks great with my Patagonia baggies or any other longer shorts or pants. I wore it on a recent road trip and it worked great in heat and chilliness, from Arizona to Yellowstone. I bought a small and I’m 5-foot-2, 115 lbs." —hcw465

Price: $28.83+ (available in nine colors and women's sizes XS-XL)

27. Smartwool cold-weather running socks in case you live with someone who keeps it frigid degrees indoors despite your teeth-chattering pleas. But of course, they're also great to wear during ACTUAL cold weather outdoors.

REI

Promising review: "These socks fit so well that there is no bunching at the toes like I have experienced with other brands. I have also noticed at least one other brand of winter sport sock that is very slippery inside the running shoe so that one's foot is sliding around while running. I am so happy with smartwool running socks: they are the perfect winter running sock." —Anonymous

Price: $21.95 (also available in black and women's sizes S-L)

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.