When you’re feeling low on motivation to exercise, stylish sportswear can be an excellent booster. But finding options that look good and fit well can be tough, especially if you’ve got curves to clothe.
While there have always been plenty of options in regular sizes, more brands are realising that the options for curvy and plus-size women are woefully low, and have set about launching collections in sizes for almost every body. In fact, the newly refurbished Sports Direct flagship store on London’s Oxford Street is home to the UK’s first ever multi-brand bra finder tool in the Bra Studio.
Promising to help women find their perfect fit in every brand stocked, and for different kinds of sport, you’ll never need to fumble mid-circuit with a slipping bra strap ever again.
The store also has a gait analysis area where you can get fitted for the perfect running trainers, a very cool customisation service to make your new kicks feel truly yours and optimise your performance.
Going for a walk or run, rolling out the yoga mat and jumping on the spin saddle are all a lot easier when you feel confident with how you look.
That’s why we’ve rounded up the best plus size sports kit and gym wear so you can spend less time shopping and more time planning your week’s workouts.
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Best plus size sports bras
We have a full tried-and-tested roundup dedicated to the category, but if we’re choosing our top three…
Nike Swoosh Women’s Medium-Support Non-Padded Sports Bra
Keeping everything superbly in place, Nike’s simple but effective sports bra offers support without feeling restrictive. The pull-on racer back design goes up to a 3XL and being non-padded, it means there won’t be any unnecessary bulk in the way. Made from 75 per cent recycled polyester, it’s also available in grey and white.
ADIDAS Believe This Bra Womens
It’s widely believed red cars go faster - could the same be true for sports bras? While the jury’s still out, we can’t help but fall for this bright design, which features Adidas branding in a clashing pink. The racer back straps is further supported by a thick strap and the moisture-wicking fabric will help keep you comfortable throughout your workout. The padding in the cups is removable too, offering the best of both worlds. An XL should fit a size 22.
Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Non-Wired Sports Bra, Black
One of the best names in the business, Shock Absorber offers a selection of sports bras that perform. This full cup design is non-wired for extra comfort when you’re pounding the pavements, and there are two closing clips on the reverse for extra peace of mind. The wide straps are slightly padded too, so they won’t dig in.
Sweaty Betty Ultra Run Sports Bra
Offered up to an F cup, Sweaty Betty is working hard to put the fun back into function when it comes to sports bras. This racer back design supports as well as separates so you can keep your mind focused on your circuits, reps or pacing. The straps can be worn two ways too, offering flexibility in support if you need it. Available in five other colours.
Best plus size leggings
ASOS 4505 Curve icon run tie capri legging
A great pair of leggings is essential to your fitness wardrobe, keeping you streamlined as you jog, jump and rep through your workout. ASOS’s in-house activewear collection offers an array of styles, and these cropped leggings are ideal for activities like running and spinning. They’re high rise and feature a drawstring on the inside of the waistband to offer a secure fit. Available up to size 30.
Nike Women’s 7/8 Printed Leggings (Plus Size)
Sometimes you just need that extra little push to get going with your workout, and where better to come from than your wardrobe? Covered in a purple zebra print, these 7/8 leggings are ideal for everything from a walk around the block to a 5k. What’s more, they’re partly made from recycled fabric, helping to close the wasteful fashion loop.
£35.97 | Nike *On sale from £44.95
Ulla PopkenCrane Print Zip Pocket Stretch Knit Leggings
Fashionable fitness apparel is far and few between, which is why we love Ulla Popken’s crane-print leggings. The slim leg look features a high rise elastic waistband and there’s a pocket on the centre back for essentials like keys when you’re out for a run. Stretchy and comfortable, they’re ideal for a range of activities and go up to a size 34.
Best plus size yoga tops
Nike Women’s Icon Clash Training Tank
Made with Nike’s Dri-FIT fabric, this lime-green tank is designed with fitness in mind. The soft, moisture-wicking fabric will help keep you in the zone, focused and flummox-free. A 3XL fits up to a UK32.
Adidas Marimekko Oversize T-Shirt
Adidas’s collab with Marimekko has resulted in this cool, loose t-shirt, covered in a scallop print. The exclusive tee may be made for running, but it’s breathable enough to wear for the yoga mat too. Available up to size 18.
Simply Be 3 Pack T-Shirts
Get triple the bang for your buck with Simply Be’s pack of three coloured t-shirts, ready for whatever your daily schedule has planned. The short-sleeved tops will go with all leggings and sports bras. Sizes to UK32.
