Whether you enjoy sweating it out at the gym, hiking regularly, or playing racquet sports every week, there is nothing like treating yourself to new activewear to give your mind and body a boost when working out. Fortunately, you don’t have to look too far to find a wealth of British sportswear brands, both big and small, that are flying the flag within the health and wellness sector.
It makes sense, given that sport is entrenched within British culture, from tennis and rugby to rowing and football. From the best workout leggings to running shoes for women, designers have taken inspiration from classic British sportswear brands.
"The heritage of British sportswear has been impactful with brands like Burberry, Fred Perry, Umbro, Reebok, Barbour, and Hunter all shaping both the fashion landscape and the sporting culture of the UK and beyond," says Lily Rice, sportswear designer and founder of The LRC. "The Americans tend to lead in inclusivity, they have a larger customer base so they can hold more stock and offer more sizes and options. Meanwhile, the likes of Lululemon helped to create a gear change for sportswear and casual fashion, introducing the idea of ‘athleisure'."
But where British brands always excel is within the areas of craftsmanship, understatement and timeless style. Whether you're looking for sportswear to wear during your workout or casually, take a look at the British sportswear brands doing the most in 2024.
British sportswear brands as chosen by the w&h health team
1. Sweaty Betty
Sweaty Betty might be a global brand, but the company has distinctly British roots. Founded in London’s Notting Hill in 1998 by Tamara and Simon Hill-Norton, the business was among the first to acknowledge the need for beautiful, practical activewear. Its popularity grew through celebrity endorsement and the growing demand for ‘athleisure’ fashion. Today, there are three key ranges - the Gaia yoga collection, the Power round-up, and the Explorer selection for when you are out and about - but they will always be known for their ‘bum-sculpting’ leggings.
The Sweaty Betty Power leggings are the bum-sculpting favourites. Smooth to the touch, sweat-resistant, and complete with two pockets (one in the leg and one in the waistband), they are perfect for everything from strength training workouts to relaxed cardio sessions. They also come in numerous lengths, making them uniquely suitable for those in taller and petite size ranges.
Revamp your workout wardrobe with a supportive, breathable, and sweat-wicking half-zip, ideal for those who do yoga every day or the occasional Pilates class. Offering both comfort and versatility, it's a piece that both looks and feels good in movement. Pair with a pair of Power leggings or Gaia yoga leggings for the ultimate duo.
Sweaty Betty are also famous for their workout essentials - such as the Athlete Seamless Gym T-Shirt. Bright, bold, and seamless for wear in the summer, while also suitable to be worn under layers as you work out in cold weather. These are a go-to for keeping your kit simple with plenty of coverage. But don't worry - if Barbie pink isn't for you, there are plenty of other colours to choose from.
2. M&S GoodMove
From the new must-have trench coat alternative to the best gym leggings with pockets, there's not much M&S doesn't offer these days. The brand has been a British high-street staple for over 100 years and continues to evolve as a one-stop shop. One of its most successful sub-brands is the Goodmove collection, launched in 2020. The popularity of the activewear range is down to the brand's quality and simplicity. These are understated, fuss-free pieces for all wellbeing activities, from walking and yoga to strength training and swimming. The items can be mixed and matched without colour clashes and the range feels more accessible in terms of pricing, size, and design than some of the more premium brands.
The M&S Go Move Shorts are an option for one of the best sports bras on a budget, at just £25. Support comes in the form of the racerback design and thick underband, while the front zip fastening makes it easier to take on and off. It's made from quick-drying and moisture-wicking materials and is available in back sizes from 32 to 42, cup sizes A to E.
Over 900k pairs of Go Move leggings have been sold since the brand launched. Made from recycled polyester, they have a high elasticated waistband and handy pockets on the back and side to keep you hands-free during your workout. No frills or fuss, just the essentials at an affordable price.
The M&S Goodmove range mainly deals in activewear but occasionally there are some excellent loungewear and post-workout finds - like this sweatshirt. It fits right in with the graphic t-shirt trend of the last year, complete with an oversized design and subtle style. But hurry - there's limited stock!
3. Regatta Great Outdoors
Founded over 40 years ago, Regatta Great Outdoors is now one of the UK’s most recognisable outdoor clothing brands. Aimed at outdoor enthusiasts, from hikers and campers to dog walkers, the range includes everything you might need, from base layers and the best waterproof jackets to the best walking shoes for women and rucksacks. The affordable price point makes feeling cosy and comfortable in all seasons more accessible, a value that underpins the company’s aim to encourage everyone to experience the health benefits of being outdoors, whatever the weather.
A staple for any outdoor wardrobe is a lightweight waterproof with a flattering fit. The Birchdale jacket, made from recycled plastic bottles, features Isotex 10000 fabric to protect against wet and cold elements and has three zipped pockets to keep items safe.
A practical hiking boot like the Samaris III is a good investment if you're planning to spend time outdoors this year - no matter the season. Waterproof and breathable with excellent grip underfoot, this Gorpcore essential provides a performance tread to help keep you steady, safe, and dry on uneven terrain.
Outdoor wear doesn't have to be exclusively earth tones. While Regatta does offer these excellent leggings in a variety of colour palettes, the abstract prints are sure to light up the trails. Holleen II leggings are made with extol stretch jersey fabric, they provide UPF 40+ protection from the sun and include a pocket for your phone.
4. Gymshark
From its humble beginnings in a garage in Birmingham, British sportswear brand Gymshark has evolved into a billion-pound business since it began in 2012. It's a go-to for gym wear but thanks to the accessible, size-inclusive, and high-quality clothing made by a diverse range of designers, it's suitable for a whole range of other activities - from running to rock climbing, weightlifting for beginners to hiking. There is a mind-blowing amount of choice as well with 10 different collections, along with underwear and accessories. While the brand has lent into social media over the last few years, don't let the muscle-heavy image put you off, this brand is for everyone.
The Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings are a core product in the range - and we're huge fans here at W&H. While they might be snug on your first wear, they soon stretch and shape to your body, providing the perfect amount of support and breathing room, for activities in the gym and outside. They are also available in a huge range of colours.
Anything in the Training collection is almost guaranteed to be a good buy if you're looking to update your gym wardrobe. This t-shirt is made from 100% polyester, making it ideal for wicking away moisture during sweaty workouts. It has a great fit, with the bottom of the top touching the top of your leggings or shorts.
Finding a pick of the best high-impact sports bras is no easy task, especially if you have a smaller or larger chest than average. Gymshark's sizing makes these bras accessible for most people, however, with sizes from XXS to XXL. This bra is great value for money, offers good support with a racerback design and removable cups, and is available in multiple colourways.
5. Rapha
Rapha is a British cycling and lifestyle brand, founded in London in 2004. If you like to do cycling as workout, you're probably familiar with them as their Pro Team collection is worn in the professional peloton. For the everyday rider, Rapha offers high-quality cycling clothing, shoes, and accessories. The brand has an extensive range of women's styles, offering designs to suit every rider - from shorts and bibs with a chamois to off-bike-friendly alternatives, so no matter how you like to ride, there's something for you.
Designed for comfort on the bike, at a lower price than other styles in the range, the Core Bib Shorts are an excellent go-to for longer rides or even exploring the benefits of indoor cycling. They are made from high-stretch, opaque lyric fabric, have a dual-density chamois for comfort and minimally-designed uppers to offer the support you need without any extra fabric.
As the warmer weather approaches, life on the bike becomes a lot more enjoyable - provided you have the right kit. Rapha's core jersey is a great option no matter how you ride, with a stretch fabric designed for a comfortable, unrestrictive fit, and pockets on the back for easy storage of your essentials.
In neutral tones of black or off-white, this hoodie by Rapha, much like the rest of the brand's lifestyle range, is discreetly stylish, super comfortable, and made of high-quality materials. It's one of the best hoodies for women, perfect for chilly winter mornings, long walks, or post-ride recovery.
6. Bam
The slogan for sustainable brand BAM is ‘activewear for everywhere,’ and the company lives up to that mantra with a wide range of clothing for yoga, hiking, running and gym sessions. The collections use bamboo and recycled fabrics and feature practical pieces designed with softness and comfort in mind. The brand pays close attention to the details as well, including intricate back features and flattering fronts in the clothing, so you feel at ease from every angle. Colour palettes combine nature-inspired hues, like sunsets and watercolours, with muted earth tones to cater for all outdoor styles.
One of the biggest hiking mistakes is not layering up. Luckily, one of BAM’s bestselling pieces is this recycled fleece jacket, which is ideal to throw on for whatever adventure you have planned. Cropped, super soft, oversized for the ultimate comfort, and made from sustainable materials, what more could you ask for?
BAM's bold prints truly make a statement this season with colour-popping designs, available in leggings, sports shorts, and racerback crop tops. The Enduro leggings are available in 7/8 and full-length, have a wide waistband, sculpt the hips and thighs, and are certified squat-proof, making them perfect for everything from dumbbell workouts in the gym to lounging around at home.
Designed with yoga and yoga mat workouts in mind, this super soft top is made from bamboo modal and features a V-scoop neckline, crossover back, wide straps and a touch of stretch for a stylish yet supportive fit. It demonstrates the diverse range of colours by BAM too, with the exclusive grey 'mink', green, and black offerings in stark contrast with other brighter colour palettes.
7. Adanola
If you enjoy doing yoga as a workout, Pilates, or low-impact cosy cardio at the gym, you've probably seen Adanola clothing walking around. Established in the northwest of England in 2015, Adanola is known for its cosy co-ords, graphic logo prints, and chic athleisure wear. Designs are muted in neutral palettes, featuring tasteful navy blues, black, cream, grey and green colourways, and sizing is inclusive, ranging from XXS to XXXL.
The Ultimate Wrap Over leggings from Adanola are classic gym pants, featuring a flattering fit with a supportive waistband and compressive fit. Without a front seam, there's no chance of discomfort (i.e. no camel toe) with these and the four-way stretchy, squat-proof design makes them suitable for most workouts.
Slim-fitting and comfortable, if you're looking for a long-sleeve to take on your workouts, Adanola has some of the best. Size inclusive as noted, this one features a zip-up opening for breathability and thumb holes to keep the sleeves in place as you move - and double up as hand-warmers for colder mornings. Pair with leggings for a complete Pilates look or your favourite sweatpants for down days.
These days, sweatpants are a worthy investment. They're more than just the comfortable trousers you wear around the house - they can be the go-to for post-gym sessions to keep warm and for staying local on rest days. The AS sweatpants are made from 100% cotton with a cosy lining, complete with a drawstring waistband. You may even be able to style joggers for work, making these a multi-purpose buy, but for a truly cosy at-home feel, go up a size.
8. Le Col
Le Col are another British cycling brand, founded in London and dedicated to making kit for casual riders, while also supporting a team in the professional peloton, speaking to the quality and durability of their products. Here, you'll find a good range of women's bib shorts (with and without chamois), jerseys, and accessories, often in familiar styles and neutral colourways - with the odd splash of vibrancy. If you're a fan of indoor riding through one of the best cycling apps like Zwift or Strava, you'll love some of the collaboration pieces in the collection with these platforms.
Packable, lightweight and protective, Le Col's Sport Gilet II is one of the brand's most popular products - and for good reason. Available in sleek black, bright orange and fluorescent yellow, it's a must-have safety layer for those riding on the roads.
As we move from winter to spring, this is a perfect crossover piece. The Pro Air Sleeveless Base Layer is a comfortable layer to wear under a jersey with a mesh design, created to be sweat-wicking and fast-drying for wetter days and harder rides.
Crafted from breathable, lightweight materials with a thick chamois for added comfort, these shorts are great for everyday riding and exploring the many benefits of cycling for women. They have a compressive design, stretch fit, and offer UPF 50+ sun protection for those much-anticipated warmer days.
9. Contur
Contur was founded by Claire Turpin, a fitness instructor who spotted a gap in the sustainable activewear market after becoming a mum and experiencing a drop in body confidence. Focused on celebrating the individuality of people, rather than conforming to a mythical 'ideal', their motto is, 'You’ve got it, we flaunt it.' The pieces, made using regenerated ocean plastic and available in a rainbow of colours, include leggings, crop tops, vests, and shorts. There are two collections: Limitless and Classic, aimed at yoga and high-intensity workouts respectively. There is also a classic black jumpsuit for dancing in the studio – or on a night out if you are feeling especially bold.
Contur’s Step Up leggings feature designs in keeping with 2024's trousers trend with its stripe design. Made using soft Italian sustainable techno fabric, they are ideal for when you want to feel comfortable on the mat.
Contur's Freestyle vest is designed for HIIT workouts but its versatile design makes it suitable for any type of workout in our books. The slinky, draped effect of the back can be kept as is for breathability or tied at the ends for a more streamlined look. There are five different colours to choose from, so there's bound to be a colourway for everyone.
The Contur bodysuit allows free movement during Pilates workouts, whether that reformer Pilates or on the mat, yoga, barre, and other low-impact exercises. It's breathable and stretchy, with a seam high-enough at the back to cover up a sports bra, and slim fit to offer support.
10. Pruzan
One of the newest British sportswear brands on the block is Pruzan, which was founded in 2022 by two female athletes who wanted to create stylish performance wear to go the distance. Aimed at runners, the limited collection includes mesh singlets, leggings, and some of the best running shorts for women in both marathon and fitted styles, as well as sports bras and T-shirts in black, orange, white, and pale yellow colourways. A selection of trendy graphic tees featuring the brand's emblematic lion logo and accessories offer post-run wear and cover-ups.
The 'shorts that started it all' - the Curved Running Shorts were among the primary collection launched when Pruzan was founded. The unique fit is specifically designed with the female form in mind and they are ideal for all types of running - from everyday strides to marathons. Discreet storage pockets allow you to carry your essentials, with the pull-cord waistband helping to keep the shorts where you want them.
The great thing about sportswear built by women for women is the design of items like this - the Pruzan long-sleeve top. The silhouette tapers at the waist and crops at the top of the hips for a super-flattering fit, while the sweat-wicking materials allow for a soft finish to the fabric.
Perfect for taming post-run flyaways and wearing on rest days, the Pruzan Uniform Hat features five panels with a low-key design and logo on the front.
11. Stay Wild
Swimmers, surfers, and cold-water dippers will love Stay Wild, a London-based swimwear brand that uses regenerated ocean plastic to create swimsuits and bikini sets. Founded in 2018 by British founders Zanna Van Dijk and Natalie Glaze, their mission is to produce swimwear with purpose with a range made using ECONYL® yarn, a regenerated nylon created from fishing nets and salvaged plastic waste. The collections are designed to be confidence-boosting and inclusive to all with a good range of designs and styles, so whether you want to go full-coverage in a high-neck swimsuit or barely-there in a bikini, there's something for everyone.
Designed to fulfil the three Fs-functional, flattering and feminine, the one-piece swimsuit was created with wild swimming activities in mind, so it has a high neckline for greater support and a zip that allows changing with ease. Available in multiple colours and sizes from 6 to 24.
Available in various exciting colours alongside neutral colourways, the stylish but practical Nomad set includes a sporty bikini top - with wide straps and low-neck scoop design - and high-waisted bottoms. While the top half is perhaps better suited to those with a smaller chest, the double layer and elastic features under the band do provide some support.
Along with a diverse collection of swimwear, Stay Wild have a good collection of beach and lifestyle pieces. The Lana is designed to be lightweight and versatile, equally at home slung over a bikini on the beach as tucked into jeans. Made from recyclable materials and Oeko-Tex®️ certified organic linen, it's an oversized style designed to be worn in comfort.
12. Silou London
Silou (pronounced 'si-loo', from ‘silhouette’) is the elegant brainchild of mother and former model Tatitana Kovylina and wellness influencer Phoebe Greenacre. Founded in 2016, the focus is sustainably sourced, female-first designs made from materials that are perfect for yoga, barre work and full-body Pilates workouts. The range includes leggings, tops, shorts, sports bras and bodysuits in buttery-soft textures and muted, tonal colours. They have an affordable Archive section to limit waste, and even the yoga mat and skipping rope accessories are beautiful to look at.
Uniquely designed with a colour-block, core-firming panel at the waist to assist you in all your yoga and Pilates exercises, the Daisy Legging goes with you as you jump, lunge and move through your poses. Unlike most leggings on the more budget-friendly side of the spectrum, these don't have a seam at the front, meaning you can bend and step out with confidence and comfort.
Many British sportswear brands sell accessories these days, alongside activewear, and Silou is no different. Cork mats often sit among the best yoga mats as they are grippy even when moist, made from more natural materials than other mats, and often feel more cushioned underfoot.
Made from 100% cotton, this sweater is a good choice for building out your workout capsule wardrobe. The high neckline, stretchy fit, and moisture-wicking material make it a practical pick for staying warm post-workout, while the super soft feel, forest green tone, and soft, breathable lining make it a good choice for casual day-to-day wear too.
