With fitness influencers taking over the internet, the increase in women’s sportswear sales does not come as a surprise. Whether you’re hitting the gym or going for a run, there are a few essential sportswear you should have in your possession. The sportswear industry ensures you don’t compromise style as you burn those calories.
5 Must-Haves in Your Sports Wardrobe
If you are sportswear shopping for the first time, the experience can be a little overwhelming. There is so much variety in the womens sportswear section, from several kinds of sports bras to various types of leggings. Don’t know what to get? Here are a few must-haves in your wardrobe to make that gym membership worth it.
- Leggings
- Sports bra
- Sports jacket
- Sweatbands
- Shoes
Leggings
Leggings are a staple in every woman’s workout wardrobe. It is comfortable and easy to find, perfect for tracking the progress of your lower body. Leggings come in many designs, making them the most convenient choice for sportswear. While some women prefer high-waisted leggings, others look out for mesh or cropped varieties. Pair your leggings with your favorite sportswear and sports jacket for the perfect workout outfit.
Sports bra
The sports bra you wear affects your performance at the gym. An ill-fitted sports bra will make the wearer uncomfortable and distracted. It will not provide the necessary support for a productive workout. If you are a runner, it is essential to wear a high-impact sports bra to reduce movement and discomfort.
Sports jacket
A sports jacket is not considered a necessity by most women. Having said that, it is essential to protect the wearer from the cold during harsher weather. It can be worn as a pump cover till the wearer feels warm enough to lose it. Women who enjoy running outdoors require windbreaker sports jackets that will make the workout more comfortable.
Sweatbands
If you’re a gym rat, you are well aware of the sweaty mess you can be in the middle of your routine. Sweatbands are great for keeping you dry and hygienic as you push through your sets. Sweatbands come in various designs, making them perfect for adding a little personal touch to your sports outfit.
Shoes
The shoes you wear during your workout play a massive role in your comfort and safety. The wrong shoes might result in you hurting yourself. Get yourself a pair of running shoes if you head to the tracks often, or converses if weighted squats are more your thing. Shop for shoes according to your activity to ensure optimum performance.
How to Take Care of Your Sportswear
Taking care of your sportswear requires more attention than regular clothes. While the difference is not substantial, it is crucial to understand if you frequently work out. Here are the steps to take to make sure your sportswear lasts a long time.
Wash them after your session
It is tempting to leave your sportswear to pile up in the corner after a tiring workout. This is damaging to the fabric as sweat gets collected in it. Wash your sportswear right after your session. Piled-up sportswear is the breeding ground for bacteria; that is the last thing you want for your favorite pair of leggings.
Skip the washing machine
Washing machines have made life easier, but they aren’t your sportswear’s best friend. Washing machines can ruin even the best quality sportswear. Try to hand wash your sportswear to reduce the damage to the fabric. Hang it to dry the old-fashioned way instead of using a tumble dryer.
Don’t use fabric softeners
Using softeners is not necessary when taking care of your sportswear. Activewear is designed with moisture-wicking fabric that makes it optimal for working out. Softeners can affect this feature of the fabric. When washing your favorite leggings and sports bra, use your regular detergent. You can easily find specially formulated activewear detergents if you’re willing to invest a few extra bucks.
Wash with room temperature water
Using hot water to wash your workout clothes might sound like a good idea, but on the contrary, it is incredibly detrimental to the special fabric of your sportswear. Use room temperature or cold water for washing your best-loved workout clothes for ideal results.
Don’t forget your shoes
Sports shoes require as much care as your workout clothes, even though they need to be managed less frequently. You can wash the shoes in the washing machine with the help of a mesh cover. This will keep the shoes clean and does not require too much effort. Many popular sportswear brands provide care items for their shoes.
What’s the Right Sportswear for You?
The right sportswear for you depends on your choice of activity. The workout clothes you opt for depend on several factors, including your personal style and preferences. A skort is the way to go if you’re heading for tennis lessons. Paired with a comfortable polo shirt, you can’t go wrong. On the other hand, if the gym is your favorite spot, nothing does it better than leggings and a sports bra. Here are a few suggestions if you’re new to sportswear shopping.
| Sports | Sportswear |
| Running | Pair your leggings with a high-impact sports bra and windbreaker sports jacket. |
| Paddle tennis | A comfortable skort or shorts with a sports bra and tank top |
| Swimming | Swimsuits designed with ample coverage and support |
| Squash | Shorts and sports tee with sweatbands |
A good workout outfit is all the confidence you need to head out for a session. With the right fit, waking up for a run does not sound so bad anymore.
Dress up for that deadlift
From Serena Williams to Kim Kardashian; sportswear looks are all over the internet. Be it a tennis session with the whole world watching or a home workout, the appropriate outfit maximizes your productivity and increases the quality of your workout. Invest in good quality sportswear that will last you a long time. Look like a star as you beat your personal record at the squat rack.