As every new year rolls around, I’m faced with the same dilemma: do I set a resolution (that I will likely abandon within a few weeks), or do I simply keep focusing on making small, meaningful improvements to my life, regardless of the date?
The Best Activewear Brands, According To marie claire:
- Best All-Round: Under Armour
- Best For Pilates: lululemon
- Best For Running: Nike
- Best For Weights: GymShark
- Best For Athleisure: Sporty & Rich
I usually fall into the latter category. After all, who says you can’t start improving your life on a random Wednesday in April?
I’ve long been a regular at Pilates, but it was only midway through last year that I started adding running into my routine. And while there are no strict resolutions in sight, I am consciously trying to be more consistent and make small changes so my body feels good—both now and in the long term.
Regardless of how you choose to move, what matters most is that you are moving. And what better to pair with a workout than high-quality gym gear (aside from a post-workout coffee, obviously)?
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Whether you’re fully committed to reaching your New Year goals or simply motivated to keep a good thing going, these are the activewear brands we’re reaching for time and time again. High-quality, performance-enhancing and undeniably chic—what more could you want to start the year strong?
Under Armour
Under Armour has built a loyal following thanks to its sleek, technology-driven approach to activewear. The brand first made waves with its sweat-wicking HeatGear fabric—designed to keep athletes cool, dry and comfortable through even the toughest workouts—and has continued to evolve ever since. Today, Under Armour offers everything from supportive leggings and breathable training tops to running shoes and gym-ready accessories.
UNDER ARMOUR
UA Infinity 2.0 Mid
UNDER ARMOUR
UA Velociti
UNDER ARMOUR
UA Meridian Flare
UNDER ARMOUR
UA Unstoppable Woven
P.E Nation
Launched in 2016 by Pip Edwards and Claire Greaves, P.E Nation is an Australian activewear brand that is fashion-first. With retro-inspired designs and bold colours, it seamlessly blends sport and street style. Crafted with premium fabrications, P.E Nation is your go-to if you love leisurewear that will take you from a boxing class to brunch.
P.E NATION
Foundation Muscle Tank
P.E NATION
Rugby Long Sleeve Tee
P.E NATION
Wander 3″ Bike Short
P.E NATION
Advantage Sports Bra
Boody
Australian-born and sustainability-focused, Boody is redefining everyday basics with comfort at its core. Crafted primarily from organically grown bamboo, the brand’s understated designs are soft, breathable and designed to move with you. From undergarments and base layers to movement-ready staples, Boody is a brand that does it all.
BOODY
Racerback Bralette
BOODY
Base Layer Crew Neck T-Shirt
BOODY
High Waist Flare Pants
BOODY
Advantage Sports Bra
New Balance
If you’re a fan of the Australian Open, you’ll know that New Balance have spent the last three years as the tournament’s Official Performance Apparel and Footwear provider. And let’s be honest—if it’s good enough for elite athletes, it’s good enough to be in our daily activewear rotation. Beyond the brand’s classic performance staples, the 2026 AO collection delivers a fresh hit of summer energy, seamlessly blending form and function.
NEW BALANCE
Tournament Novelty Top
NEW BALANCE
Harmony High Rise Short 6″
NEW BALANCE
Flexibility Graphic T-Shirt
NEW BALANCE
Sport Legacy Woven Jacket
Adanola
Focusing on designs that seamlessly fit into your lifestyle, Adanola creates high-quality activewear essentials for everyone. Whether you’re running a marathon or just running errands, the brand has you covered. With celebrity ambassadors like Kendall Jenner, it’s easy to see why Adanola has become such a popular pick.
ADANOLA
Ultimate Double Strap Bra
ADANOLA
Impact Seamless Crop Shorts
ADANOLA
Impact Seamless Leggings
ADANOLA
Ultimate Long Sleeve Top
Sporty & Rich
Inspired by vintage sportswear, Sporty & Rich never set out to be a brand that offered apparel. However, since its inception in 2015, collections of luxury athleisure have graced us. Perfect for those who want to work out without looking like they’re about to workout, the brand has all your country club attire sorted.
SPORTY & RICH
Vendome Pique Polo Dress
SPORTY & RICH
Baby Rib Tank
SPORTY & RICH
Nexus Rib Tank
SPORTY & RICH
Veritas Soft Disco Printed Shorts
lululemon
Synonymous with premium activewear, lululemon has grown from a yoga-focused brand into a global favourite for high-performance, feel-good wardrobe staples. Founded in Canada in the late ’90s, the label is best known for its buttery-soft fabrics, flattering fits and pieces that transition effortlessly from workout to everyday life.
LULULEMON
Court Rival Track Jacket
LULULEMON
Contour-Seam Cropped Tank Top
LULULEMON
Wunder Train No Line High-Rise Tight
LULULEMON
Wunder Train Mesh-Back Bra
Lorna Jane
Founded in Australia in 1989, Lorna Jane has long been a pioneer in women’s activewear, championing pieces that are equal parts functional and flattering. Designed to move with you, the brand is known for its supportive fits, sweat-ready fabrications and confidence-boosting silhouettes. Whether you’re powering through a HIIT class or heading out for a post-work walk, Lorna Jane delivers feel-good activewear that is designed for an active life.
LORNA JANE
Beaumont T-Shirt
LORNA JANE
Sweetheart Gingham Seamless Sports Bra
LORNA JANE
Set Point 12cm Bike Shorts
LORNA JANE
Liberty Flared Leggings
GymShark
If you’re a regular in a HIIT class or just love lifting weights, GymShark will need no introduction. Founded in the UK in 2012, the brand has built a reputation for creating functional, comfortable activewear that suits every body and every workout. From high-performance leggings to versatile tops, GymShark designs make it easy to move with confidence.
GYMSHARK
Alpha High Support Sports Bra
GYMSHARK
Whitney Shorts
GYMSHARK
Tight Fit Crew Neck Tee
GYMSHARK
Soft Sculpt Flared Leggings
Aje Athletica
Aje launched their activewear line, Aje Athletica, in 2021—and it’s exactly what we’d expect from the iconic Australian label. Sleek, on-trend and effortlessly versatile, the collection is made up of pieces that can take you straight from a workout to brunch without missing a beat.
AJE ATHLETICA
Swift Longline Logo Tank
AJE ATHLETICA
Logotape Full Length Legging 203
AJE ATHLETICA
Layered Sports Bra
AJE ATHLETICA
Hooded Running Jacket 716
Nike
Naturally a front-runner in the activewear game, Nike treat every person like an athlete. With inspiration and innovation at the core of the brand, it’s clear that Nike are redefining what it means to move your body. The apparel features fashion-forward colourways, flattering cuts and thoughtful details so everyone can perform to their greatest potential.
NIKE
Nike Swoosh Medium-Support
NIKE
Loose UV Woven Full-Zip Jacket
NIKE
Dri-FIT Running Tank Top
NIKE
Dri-FIT ADV Mid-Rise Brief-Lined Shorts
Adidas
Another brand that’s been in the business of activewear for a long time, adidas are known for shoes, streetwear and almost every kind of sports accessory around. Whether you’re just starting on your wellness journey or a seasoned gym goer, there’s something for everyone.
ADIDAS
Powerreact Training Hyperglam Bra
ADIDAS
Terrex Multi 8-Inch Tight Shorts
ADIDAS
Climacool Animal Training Graphic T-Shirt
ADIDAS
Optimé Essentials Stash Pocket Leggings
Nagnata
Founded in Australia, Nagnata sits at the intersection of performance and design, creating activewear that is both elevated and functional. Created with premium natural fibres, the retro vibes and bold colour palettes allow you to move seamlessly from the Pilates studio to a coffee shop for the best matcha in town.
NAGNATA
Splice All-In Wool Suit
NAGNATA
Highlighter Tee 3.0
NAGNATA
Scoop Wool Crop
NAGNATA
Micro Wool Mini Short
Nimble Activewear
Australian-born label Nimble Activewear is designed to provide all-day comfort. The brand is known to create thoughtfully designed pieces that can be worn to the gym or the local cafe, offering staple leisurewear that is focused on fit, comfort and timeless designs—ideal for those who love an elevated yet effortless approach to active life.
NIMBLE ACTIVEWEAR
In Tempo No Bounce C-D Bra
NIMBLE ACTIVEWEAR
In Motion Cropped Pocket Flare Pant
NIMBLE ACTIVEWEAR
Ribbed Cardio 2-1 Tank
NIMBLE ACTIVEWEAR
In Pace Short 14cm
Aim’n
Founded in 2013 by two friends who wanted colourful, inspiring and functional workout gear, Aim’n has grown into a global favourite known for its bold prints, thoughtful silhouettes and performance-ready fabrics that flatter every body.
AIM’N
Shape Seamless Cross Back Bra
AIM’N
Black Ribbed Seamless Tights 7/8
AIM’N
Soft Basic Singlet
AIM’N
Ribbed Seamless Midi Biker Shorts
Reebok
A true heritage player in the activewear world, Reebok needs little introduction. Decades after first defining performance footwear and fitness apparel, the brand continues to deliver gear built to go hard—with durability and function at its core.
REEBOK
Eliza Yoga Strappy Bra
REEBOK
Harmony Tee
REEBOK
Hooded Windbreaker
REEBOK
2 in 1 Run Speed Short
The Upside
Born in Australia out of a desire for stylish, versatile activewear that works as hard as you do, The Upside brings effortless cool to the everyday. Known for body-sculpting tights, sleek crop tops and versatile layers with an understated chic aesthetic, The Upside blends form and function in pieces that feel as good as they look.
THE UPSIDE
Form Seamless Anita Bra
THE UPSIDE
Kirsty Rib Rank Top
THE UPSIDE
Riley Knit Dress
THE UPSIDE
Maison 25in Midi Pant
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This article originally appeared on Marie Claire Australia and is republished here with permission.
