27 Pieces Of Activewear That Are Basically Perfect For Cardio Workouts
Never ~run~ out of sports bras, crop tops, and seamless leggings for your next cardio session.
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1. A pair of leggings that won't actually feel like workout leggings thanks to their stretchy fabric and nonhugging fit. Skip the compression shorts and wear these comfy bottoms instead for your next cardio session.
Promising review: "I love these leggings! They've held up to every workout I've put them through (running, HIIT, hiking, strength workouts, etc). I've washed and dried them several times with no pilling and no shrinkage. The price is a steal for the quality of these leggings! I'll definitely be buying more!" —Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $9.98+ (available in sizes XS—XXL, packs of two, and 39 colors).
2. A power mesh sports bra with quick-drying fabric and a breathable shape that'll keep you supported during jumping jacks and mountain climbers.
Solely Fit is a Black woman-owned business that sells gorgeous activewear. You'll find sports bras, leggings, bodysuits, more pieces perfect for high-impact and low-impact workouts.
Get it from Solely Fit for $55 (available in sizes XS—XL).
3. A twist-front crop top because you want to look cute and not be too sweaty during virtual bootcamp classes. You will also *finally* have something to wear with your fave high-rise leggings and bike shorts.
I own this crop top and I love wearing it for running, HIIT, and dance classes. It doesn't roll up when I'm moving, it's super breathable, and it's not too tight on my chest.
Promising review: "I love this shirt. I've been taking fitness more seriously the last few months and finally got around to replacing all of my old activewear. It's just loose enough that I don't have to adjust it while I'm working out and also provides nice cleavage coverage. It's extremely soft and has good-sized arm holes. The navy color is deep and beautiful." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $15.98+ (available in sizes XS—XL and 17 colors).
4. High-rise leggings so you can power through your indoor cycling session without bunching or sagging. These babies will stay up on your waist and still feel comfortable, even if you're peddling really fast on a stationary bike.
One of our BuzzFeed editors also swears by these workout leggings, because they're super comfortable and keep sweat at bay during cardio sessions.
Promising review: "The compression was just enough to flatter my legs, and yet comfortable enough to complete a high intensity workout. Definitely squat-proof with no showing of undies! The waist band was nice and high, and did not slide down even with running or jumps." —Girlfriend Collective Customer
Get them from Girlfriend Collective for $68 (available in sizes XXS—6XL and nine colors).
5. A high-impact sports bra because it will keep you supported (and *very* comfortable) during your next cardio session, especially if you have a bigger bust. A built-in bra and wide shoulder straps are a heavenly combo for jumps, squats, and lunges.
Promising review: "First of all, I never write reviews unless I really like the product. This is the best sports bra I’ve ever purchased! The sizes are true and it gives me so much support! I’m big-chested and the medium is perfect." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $16.13+ (available in sizes S—3XL and six bra combinations in packs of two, three, or five).
6. A pair of bike shorts that won't ride up, show off your underwear, or feel super tight around your thighs. (Cue Rihanna singing "Where have you been, all my life?!")
Promising review: "These are the first pair of shorts I have ever had that *do not ride up* during exercise and I am amazed. I’ve always had a muscular build and have resorted to wearing yoga pants for workouts even on hot days because I get so tired of constantly having to pull my shorts down (I do hot yoga, running, CrossFit). But not with these! Highly recommend! The high waist is flattering and comfortable." —Erin Michelle
Get them from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in sizes XS—XXL and five colors).
7. A lightweight tank so you can ~breeze through~ bootcamp or a jogging session without feeling too sweaty. It'll feel feel super cool on your skin and has a flowy fit.
Get it from Athleta for $30.99+ (available in sizes 1X—3X and five colors).
8. Squat-proof leggings with a hidden waistband pocket and fit that'll let you power through leg day with ease. Can we also take a minute to appreciate all the cool patterns they come in?!
Promising review: "They are squat-proof and they are so comfortable that I stay in them all day. I am very grateful that I have found these as I was inches away from breaking down and just ordering expensive brand-name leggings." —Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in sizes XS—XL and 24 colors).
9. A midlayer top to slip into for outdoor runs. With a breathable design and stretchy sleeves, you'll be *striding in comfort* whenever you hit the pavement in the morning, afternoon, or evening.
Get it from Nike for $99 (available in sizes S—XXL).
10. Matching sports bra and leggings that'll solve the problem of "I don't know what the heck to wear" when you're trying to squeeze in a cardio session. This coordinating set will make dressing for HIIT, Zumba, or kickboxing so dang easy.
Promising review: "Wow this is my new favorite workout set!! It’s stretchy but is also form fitting and flattering! The material is great quality and the leggings stay in place when you run! I’m going to order in every color!" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in sizes S—L and 12 colors).
11. Patterned shorts for all your indoor and outdoor cardio activities. With a high waistband, vibrant design, and body-hugging fit that's comfy as hell, you can't go wrong with these gorgeous bottoms.
RochellePorterDesign is a Black woman-owned business based in Atlanta, Georgia. They're known for colorful activewear (leggings, sports bras, crop tops and more!) that'll brighten up any workout outfit.
Promising review: "These shorts are perfect! Bright, bold, and super comfortable. I can't stop gushing about and recommending them to everyone." —Etsy Customer
Get them from RochellePorterDesign on Etsy for $42 (available in sizes XS—XL).
12. A tie-back tank that literally ~has your back~ when it comes to sweaty, heart-pumping cardio workouts. It has a V-mesh design on the back (so long, perspiration) and super soft fabric that won't cling to you whenever you're doing jumping jacks, squats, or high knees.
Promising review: "I workout five days a week and have for 20 years. I am pretty picky about my workout clothes. This is the best workout shirt I have found at a good price!! if you want to show off those sexy shoulders, this shirt is a must! I love the feel of the fabric and it is nice and thin, not to bulky! I like to tie it in the back but it can be left untied too." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in sizes XS—XL and 22 colors).
13. A pair of lightweight shorts, so you ~don't have to sweat it~ the next time you need to wear activewear for cardio workouts. Your butt and thighs will thank you for the breathability and comfort.
Promising review: "I have purchased many pairs of athletic shorts over the years. By far, these are my favorite. First, they have pockets that are useful, but very concealed. The way they are made, the pockets lie complete flat against the body and are not the least bit visible. Second, the fabric is lightweight and not scratchy or crunchy like some shorts. Third, the waistband is comfortable and smooth on the inside." —Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in sizes XS—2X and 31 colors).
14. A racerback sports bra with a tech pocket, because you like to listen to music or podcasts while you work up a sweat. Located in the back, this slim space will easily fit your smartphone and keep it secure while you're exercising at home.
Promising review: "I was nervous about the phone pocket but it didn't bother me at all running with it! I have a Google Pixel 2 and it fit fine. I appreciate the removable padding in the bra and it fit as expected. Love this bra!" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $15.95+ (available in sizes S—XL and six colors).
15. A comfy unitard because who says you can't wear a cute one-piece for your next cardio session? Made with sweat-wicking fabric and adjustable straps, this lil' number will keep you dry and supported on runs.
Universal Standard is a woman-owned business that sells size-inclusive activewear and wardrobe essentials. You'll find unitards, leggings, and more chic apparel available in sizes 00 to 40.
Promising review: "I have the Next-to-Naked in the full length in both black and green, and I think I like the shorts even better. It's super easy to wear and it looks great under items (which is why I bought it). What's not to love?" —Universal Standard Customer
Get it from Universal Standard for $88 (available in sizes 4XS—4XL).
16. A criss-cross sports bra that'll give your back some ventilation while you ~work up a sweat~ on the elliptical or rowing machine.
Promising review: "I love the design of the backs of these sports bra and was skeptical about whether they were truly high support sports bra, to my surprise, they are. I did burpees, jump squats, and jumping jacks and everything stayed in place! I also appreciated not having to dislocate my shoulder trying to take the sports bra off. It came off easily without the normal struggle of high support bras that are so tight, you sometimes have to ask for help." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in sizes S—XXL and eight colors).
17. Athletic socks because you want to give your heels proper cushioning and not let sweat stink up your feet. Breathable fabric and a heel tab design will help you stay dry and avoid blisters whenever you exercise.
Promising review: "I've always appreciated the tabbed back that kept the sock from sliding down during running and leg day workouts. Not only do they work great for that, but I really like the thickness of these socks as well! I don't overheat in the summer wearing these, and I never felt like my feet were too cold in the winter." —Amazon Customer
Get a pack of eight from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in sizes 5—13 and 11 color combinations).
18. A tie-dye crop top for days when you don't only want to wear a sports bra. This beauty will add a pop of color to your exercise outfits and keep you odor-free, thanks to antimicrobial fabric.
Day/Won was founded by model Candice Huffine and offers gorgeous workout clothes in sizes 0—32. From matching sets to supportive sports bras, you'll find great activewear for your exercise routine.
Get it from Day/Won for $52 (available in sizes XS-5X).
19. A short-sleeve top with an open tie-back and lightweight fabric that'll make you forget about exercising in the heat. It won't stick to your skin and give you a lil' protection from the sun if you're taking your cardio session outdoors.
Promising review: "Wow, these tops absolutely blew my mind. They’re light, breathable yet provide coverage. The open back detail is very cute and I love the knotted detailing as well. I can literally wear these with any workout outfit and feel totally comfortable in it. If you’ve been debating on getting this, don’t! Totally worth every penny!" —Kaitlin
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in sizes S—XL and eight colors).
20. A high-neck sports bra because you're so done with bouncing boobs and need better support for high-impact activities. A mesh-friendly design keeps you sweat-free while a removable one-piece pad helps prevent shifting.
Get it from Nike for $59 (available in sizes XS—XL).
21. A fleece thermal that'll keep you toasty and not drench you in sweat when it's cold outside. It's made with fabric that wicks away moisture *and* helps you stay warm, so you can crush your next jog, run, or bike ride.
Promising review: "I was running my first 10K and bought this top last minute. When they switched the forecast to be chilly (47 degrees Fahrenheit), I ran in it and it kept me warm, but even more important it was comfortable and didn't bother me at all. I am going to order another one in a different color for my other fall races. And what a good price!" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes XS—3X and eight colors).
22. A sports bra/crop top because A) you'll save time getting dressed for the gym and B) you won't have to wear multiple layers. Removable pads and a body-hugging fit will keep your chest supported, even if you're running hard on the treadmill.
Promising review: "These are by far my favorite sports bras and I am a sports bra junkie! I have a large bust size but a small band and these work so well for me. Secure enough to run in but also comfortable enough to wear for any workout or just under a top with an exposed back. There are no adjustments on the bra so getting it on and off can be a little tricky, especially after a good workout but it is so worth it!" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $24+ (available in sizes XS—XL and 13 colors).
23. High-rise leggings (with pockets!) that'll support your booty and not require you to do a pull-up dance every time you squat, lunge, and run in place.
Promising review: "These leggings are amazing! Not only are they super cute and comfortable, but they’re also a really great quality. They stay up when working out, so you don’t have to worry about pulling them up after each squat, and they breathe nicely." —Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $18+ (available in sizes XS—XXL and four colors).
24. A two-piece workout set that's ~purrfect~ and breathable for outdoor workouts. Wear this matching bra and bike shorts whenever you go for a stroll or quick run. (No layers required.)
Promising review: "Probably not thick enough for squats, but great for lighter workouts and super cute! Loved where the waist hit and how far the top came down." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $26.58+ (available in sizes S—XL and six colors).
25. A convertible sports bra with straps you can wear crossed or uncrossed for your workouts. Whether you're kickboxing or jogging, you'll get amazing support and not have to think twice about your chest bouncing.
Some reviewers suggest buying the next sister size up if you want a looser fit.
Promising review: "The band on this bra runs tight, so use the next sister size up. I’m normally a 32DD, but the 34D fit just right! Love the convertible straps. I got it to wear playing Ring Fit Adventure, so I do a lot of bodyweight exercises and jogging, and the support is great." —Target Customer
Get it from Target for $24 (available in sizes 34B—44DD and two colors).
26. A quick-drying muscle tank because you need a top that's not going to cling to you during sweat sessions. Breathable fabric will keep you cool, dry, and free from pit stains.
Promising review: "I bought these for summer running and they are perfect. They wash well, and are good quality. They are very cool to the touch, and even on hot summer days they are comfortable. They don’t stick or cling no matter how sweaty I get. Sizing was right on, my normal size was perfect." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $16.99 (available in sizes S—XL and four colors).
27. Seamless leggings that don't reveal your underwear and stay put on your waist, even if you're squatting, lunging, and jumping. These pants also have quick-drying fabric, so you won't be drenched in sweat.
Promising review: "I absolutely adore my new set. I'm short so it can be difficult finding work out leggings that don't bunch up at my ankles. These fit perfectly and I couldn't be happier." —Good American Customer
Get them from Good American for $83.90 (available in sizes 0/1—6/7).
You, after dressing up for your next cardio session:
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
