Gym Wear as Everyday Wear? Yes, Please

Walking around the city, you're sure to see countless individuals sporting an athleisure style. Are they coming or going to yoga? Did they just finish a run, even though their hair is so cute and they're not really sweaty? Perhaps. But the rise of everyday athleisure outfits has made dressing in workout apparel widely accepted as a standard wardrobe.

We'll cover what this trend is, the benefits of looking like you're ready to hit the gym, and the best pieces from REP to help you transition from training and out into the world.

What Is Athleisure Clothing?

"Athleisure" is a portmanteau where two words get smooshed together to create a new word — like brunch (breakfast and lunch), goldendoodle (golden retriever and poodle), or Brangelina (Brad and Angelina, RIP). Here, we have "athletic" and "leisure" coming together, symbolizing the merging of both activewear and casualwear into a single style that works in the gym, out on the town, or splayed belly up on the couch. If you're fortunate to work at a fitness company like I do, it's basically required for the office.

This style is all about prioritizing comfort and versatility, with the additional benefit of a nod to others that says, "Yeah, I care about my fitness." For some, it simplifies tackling errands and then hitting the gym. For others, it may be the clothing they feel the most confident in.

You can pick pieces of athletic wear and style them with more casual attire, or choose apparel that's made specifically as athleisure — which gives the appearance of performance apparel without necessarily being designed for high-intensity exercise. The result is clothing that looks sporty, feels comfortable, and helps transition from one thing to the next without needing to always have your gym clothes packed and ready to go.

Why Did Casual Athletic Wear Become Mainstream?

Athleisure isn't new. In the 1930s, women started wearing tennis dresses even when they weren't playing tennis. The Adidas tracksuit became popular beyond the athletic world in the 1970s. But the category reached a new level during the COVID-19 pandemic, when remote work and staying home became the norm for many and wearing gym shorts or pajamas during Zoom calls was standard practice.

At the same time, social media accelerated the rise of athleisure by turning workout clothes into lifestyle apparel. Influencers and creators showcased activewear as part of their everyday routine, helping normalize leggings, matching sets, and performance fabrics outside of the gym.

When researchers interviewed women who regularly wore athleisure wear about why they did it, the responses were widely attached to perception, motivation, and self-esteem. Often, these participants saw athleisure as something that signaled to others that they led a healthy lifestyle, or that it increased their confidence, made them feel more athletic, or inspired them to prioritize their fitness.

Read More: How the Right Gym Outfit Can Change Your Workout

The Best Everyday Athleisure Outfits from REP

Whether you're looking for the sort of apparel that shouts, "I LIFT! I SWEAR!", something comfortable you can do it all in, or a way to simplify your wardrobe, REP Fitness has elevated activewear designed for comfort and performance. Here are some of our favorite picks:

Men's Magnis Heavyweight T-Shirt

This pump cover features a roomy silhouette, perfect for tossing on before you've gotten your pump, when you want a little warmth without limiting movement, of if you just want the perfect boxy tee-shirt to wear around town.

Ignition Tri-Blend Crew T-Shirt

This classic tee is constructed from a blend of polyester, rayon, and ring-spun cotton, which make for a breathable, durable, and soft fit that works through training and the rest of the day. This tee makes choosing the best gym t-shirt, that works while training and on the go, a no-brainer.

Men's Felix Pants 2.0

These pants work well in the office and through your lifts. The lower leg features a slight taper for a polished look, with a triple layer faux fly for added coverage, deep hang pockets, and zipper closures to keep your gear secure.

Attis Joggers and Jacket Set

Suit up in a matching jogger and jacket set with the Attis. This set features four-way stretch, hidden zipper pockets, and a breathable, comfortable blend of polyester and spandex. This set is ideal for recovery days and running errands, but its smart design — like thumbholes, gusseted features, and SILVADUR™ anti-odor treatment — make it a fine choice for the gym as well.

Read More: How to Wear Men's Joggers

Women's Eos Leggings

REP offers two types of leggings — the Eos and the Hera. While the Hera offers a more compressive fit, which is ideal for HIIT and running, the Eos leggings feature a softer feel that's suitable for all-day wear. But fear not, these breathable, four-way stretch, and quick-drying leggings can still hold up to the work (but, with comfort still the guiding light).

Read More: Choosing the Best Workout Clothes for Women

Vellus Joggers and Hoodie Set

The key to athleisure is looking like you're about to work out, but maybe you're running errands, hanging with friends, or actually about to take a nap. The Women's Vellus Jogger and Hoodie set is a recovery staple, made with four-way stretch, zipper pockets, and an ulta-soft polyester and spandex blend. Toss this set on, and even work the Vellus Shorts in, for a polished look whether you're lifting or living.

Unisex Daily Driver 2.0 Pull Over Hoodie

Oversized hoodies have been having their moment in the spotlight, and the Daily Driver 2.0 Pull Over Hoodie is ready to give you that lived-in, cozy, baggy hoodie feel. For reference, I'm a 5'5" woman, about 125 lbs, typically a size small. But I love my Daily Driver in a size large. Or for men, choose your normal size for a fit that shows off your arms.

Takeaway

Athletic lifestyle apparel makes transitioning from your training to your day simple and easy. These pieces from REP can support you through recovery, running errands, hanging with friends, or even hitting the gym. As compared to fitness-focused pieces, opt for elevated activewear that puts in the work to keep you comfortable throughout the day. 

FAQs

What is athleisure clothing?

Athleisure clothing are pieces that work in the gym and through the rest of your day. They give you an athletic vibe even when you're grabbing a coffee, and help to transition seamlessly from your training into whatever comes next.

Where is athleisure style appropriate?

Casual athletic wear has become a lot more mainstream over the past few years — especially in the US. Often you'll find this style of apparel in grocery stores, at the gym, out to lunch, and even in many offices that value a healthy lifestyle.