Our Top 10 Picks for Workout Wear

By Amelia Pavlik

The perfect pair of comfy running shoes could carry you over the finish line at this year’s fall 5Ks. Workout capris can make you feel fabulous whether you’re at bootcamp or brunch. Whether it helps you perform better in that race or just makes you look good, having the right gear plays a role in your fitness success.

If you’re looking for a workout wardrobe boost to help motivate you to move, read on for Best Self’s top five picks for ladies and gents.

Workout Wear for Men – Top 5

For Men

Mizuno Venture Sleeveless
Available at: www.mizunorunning.com
Price: $39 Size: S-XXL

“This running tank uses Mizuno’s COOLTOUCH and BLINDSTITCH construction,” says Alyssa Jordan, business unit manager of running apparel and accessories of Atlanta-based Mizuno. “So it will keep you cool and dry and is designed for anti-chafing and a comfortable fit.”

Brooks PureGrit Trail Running Shoe
Available at: Big Peach Running Co., www.bigpeachrunningco.com
Price: $120 Sizes: 7-14

“This shoe fits like a glove without sacrificing protection. You will feel in control of every step on the ground beneath you,” says Rachel Tucker, general manager of Big Peach’s East Cobb location. “It has an outsole peppered with hex lugs for maximum grip, while a propulsion plate protects your foot from rocks and roots on the trail. Lastly, there is a toe guard to provide protection and added traction when the trail gets steep.”

Core Short
Available at: Lululemon, www.shop.lululemon.com
Price: $58 Sizes: S-XXL

These sweat-wicking shorts were made with multisport versatility in mind, says Helen McKeon, southeast area community strategist for Lululemon. “We added LYCRA fibre to the secure-fit waistband for great stretch and shape retention,” McKeon says. “Plus, we’ve added an easy-access side pocket with a key loop for convenience.”

Mizuno Men’s Helix
Seamless T-Shirt
Available at: West Stride, www.weststride.com
Price: $45 Sizes: S-XL

“This is a shirt that functions well and feels weightless,” says Deeter Dietz, West Stride assistant manager. “It’s seamless, the fabric is breathable and lightweight, and it just
looks good!”

Freefly Bamboo Lightweight Long Sleeve Shirt
Available at: Half-Moon Outfitters, www.halfmoonoutfitters.com
Price: $49.95 Sizes: S-XL

For those days you need a little more coverage, try this shirt. The soft fabric provides UPF 15 sun protection, says Laura Elliott, a buyer for Half-Moon Outfitters. “The fabric wicks moisture and provides natural resistance to odor,” Elliott explains. “The off-the-shoulder fit provides great range of motion. It’s a wonderful option for any outdoor activity.”

Workout Wear for Women – Top 5

Mizuno Serenity T-Shirt
Available at: www.mizunorunning.com
Price: $44 Sizes: XS-XL

According to Mizuno’s Alyssa Jordan, this classic running T-shirt is perfect for an intense workout. “The front panel is made of our COOLTOUCH technology, which draws heat from the skin to keep you dry and cool,” Jordan explains. Plus, she adds, “The front and mesh back panel offer flat seams to prevent chafing.”

Lively Capri by Lole
Available at: Big Peach Running Co., www.bigpeachrunningco.com
Price: $90 Sizes: XXS-XL

“This capri smooths and shapes like no other,” says Big Peach’s Rachel Tucker. “The quick-dry Supplex fabric offers four-way stretch and UPF 50+ sun protection. And the Power Mesh liner at the abdomen delivers firm core support for a smooth silhouette and a stay-put fit.”

Pace Rival Skirt IIR
Available at: Lululemon, www.shop.lululemon.com
Price: $58 Size: 2-12

“This skirt is designed to feel light and keep you covered when you hit the trails or the court,” says Helen McKeon, southeast area community strategist for Lululemon. And it doesn’t stop at comfort and style: it’s functional, too. “Our signature three-pocket waistband has room for all of your essentials,” McKeon says.

Elomi Energise Sports Bra
Available at: Livi Rae Lingerie, www.liviraelingerie.com
Price: $70 Sizes: 36F-44F, 36G-44G, 36H-42H, and 34J-38J

“This sports bra is an absolute must for full-busted women since it provides maximum support for high impact activity,” co-owners Molly Hopkins and Cynthia Decker say. “This style is a great multipurpose sports bra that offers a racer back option created by a J-hook feature built in to the straps.”

New Balance Fresh Foam Zante
Available at: West Stride, www.weststride.com
Price: $100 Size: 5-12 (wider widths available)

“This shoe is a lightweight trainer that is flexible, feels fast and has plenty of cushion for the long run,” says West Stride general manager Wil Cramer. “The best part is that this shoe not only can help boost your performance –it’s actually pretty stylish, too!”

Editorial Resources
Wil Cramer, West Stride, www.weststride.com
Cynthia Decker, Livi Rae Lingerie, www.liviraelingerie.com
Deeter Dietz, West Stride, www.weststride.com
Laura Elliott, Half-Moon Outfitters, www.halfmoonoutfitters.com
Alyssa Jordan, Mizuno Running, www.mizunorunning.com
Molly Hopkins, Livi Rae Lingerie, www.liviraelingerie.com
Helen McKeon, Lululemon, www.shop.lululemon.com
Stephanie Michael, Village Podiatry Centers, www.villagepodiatrycenters.com
Rachel Tucker, Big Peach Running Co., www.bigpeachrunningco.com