Hitting the gym these days can almost be considered a religion. Just about every man and his dog head to their chosen place of iron-clad worship to lift an array of heavy objects in the name of aesthetics. And probably health and strength too. But admit it…it’s mainly aesthetics.
Which brings us nicely to this buyer’s guide of the world’s coolest gym clothing brands for men. On a fundamental level, you want to look better and perform at the peak of your fitness. It’s a tall order given the array of options out there, so we took the liberty of scaling it down to a selection of the best for you.
Unlike many other sports, gym workouts cannot be enhanced by some special ultra-tight pants or grippy socks. Instead, the focus is on technical fabrics, moisture-wicking, breathability and weight which allows individuals to push themselves to the limits. Think garments that complement your workout rather than restricting them.
Given the practical nature of gym wear over other forms of menswear, there are not too many rules to abide by. The most important factors are fit, colour and style that need to be addressed.
This is where the style aspect comes into play a bit more for gym-goers. When pairing gym clothes it’s important to pay attention to the colour combination of your top and bottom. What you never want to have is a full matching outfit which will make you look like a member of The Wiggles. Instead, break up the colours with a bright top and muted bottoms or vice versa.
If you’re big on the cardio and HIIT then the style of gym clothing you should be going for is the fast wicking stuff. Think thin layers and lots of air pockets for air and moisture to escape. If you’re a lifter then singlets and anything that can highlight your muscle groups is the look you want. Training in the cold? Arm yourself with jogger pants and a hoodie until you’ve warmed up. It’s as simple as that.
Ready to look damn good as you lift your personal best? These are the best gym clothing brands for men to rock right now.
On
Born in the Swiss Alps, On Running are not just running shoes. They make a great performance driven collection of gym clothing which is hard to beat.
Olivers Apparel
Olivers Apparrel makes subtle, premium workout gear for men. They focus on quality materials and classic styles, allowing their products to last a forever and look cool for decades to come.
Echt
Echt clothing is "engineered for the modern day athlete", and is the brainchild of Jeremy Lay. Whilst this Australian company intends for its clothing to be used in the gym, Echt adds it can be equally enjoyed as everyday wear too. The range encapsulates t-shirts, tanks, hoodies, joggers and shorts.
Rhone
Rhone is committed to the committed. They make clothing that prioritises fit, form and function that allow the wearer to perform at their very best. Rhone clothing is made specifically for men from a range of high-quality materials that will stand the test of time. Similarly, their simplistic designs are timeless and will look good for years to come.
Reigning Champ
Reigning Champ is quite possible the maker of the worlds finest tracksuits. Made in Canada, Reigning Champ uses quality materials and traditional production processes to make the ultimate tracksuits. Their styling is traditional and is available in either traditional materials or more cutting edge ones. They are most definitely worth a look.
Outdoor Voices
Outdoor voices offer 'traditionally' styled gym wear with universally flattering fits. Whilst their approach might be a little against the grain in today's ultra innovative activewear segment their focus on fit and fabrics make their clothing ultra-functional. They even offer 'kits' which is a combination of a top and a bottom, so you can focus on getting your workout done.
Ryderwear
Calling all gym junkies and bodybuilders: Ryderwear is a good looking, no thrills brand that will never let you down. From the gym to the cafe this brand is unpretentious, stylish and a quality option for those that lift.
Vuori
Vuori is inspired by the creative and health-concious culture of its home in Encintias, California. Their clothing is ultra versailte is as capable in the gym as it is commuting there. If your looking for clothing that will look great during your workout and at the local coffee shop, look no further.
Under Armour
Started as a result of the need for football clothing to wick-moisture and be comfortable, Under Armour knows a thing or two about making clothing that performs. They have continued this innovative approach with their gym clothing which will allow the wearer to perform at their best.
Asics
Whilst you might not first think of Asics when you think of gym wear, they sponsor several major rugby teams, including the Wallabies, men who spend an awful lot of time in the gym. This close relationship has allowed Asics to tailor and optimise their offering to suit the needs of those who spend a lot of time in the gym.
New Balance
New Balance's ultimate goal is to help their customers achieve their own personal goals. To do this they offer a range of high performing training wear that will help you look good and train at your best.
Foulaps
It isn't often you stand out with basics on, but with fourlaps you can. They have taken traditional active wear and added small details that add up to help the wearer peform at their best and stand out doing it.
Adidas
Adidas is the clothing of choice for teams and athletes all over the globe including top tier football teams on both sides of the pond. Adidas' access to the best athletes in the planet has allow them to create clothing that performs to the highest standards. Their gym gear is typically German and is clean and efficient is all aspects.
Reebok
Reebok has been making waves in the world of CrossFit. They were the first to take advantage of this rapidly growing market and have since made a selection of clothing and shoes that is perfectly tailored to CrossFitters.
BOXRAW
BOXRAW was founded a few short years ago in 2017. Whilst they might not have been around as some of the other brands we've featured, their unique ethos and boxing specific gear makes them stand out from the crowd. They were built on the belief that boxing isn't merely a sport or practice, instead they see it as a lifestyle. Their ultimate aim is to be the reason why someone got into boxing, through providing them with the equipment and clothing that need to thrive. Whether you spend your time in the ring or simply just jogging and shadow boxing in the bathroom, BOXRAW's gear will help you get the edge you need.
Lululemon
Originally designed for Yoga, Lululemon are a perfect option for gym wear as they are highly flexible, allowing movement in any direction. Unlike most gym clothing they look great, even when they're drenched in sweat. Lululemon also has a selection of more casual clothing that will help you look stylish when transiting to and from the gym.
Better Bodies
Better Bodies has been around since the eighties and has been supplying clothing to gym-junkies ever since. The website certainly implies the tops and bottoms are for the more adonis-like bodies out there, but a range of fits including oversized, cater for any wannabe weightlifter.
Armani
Some workout warriors only want to wear the most desirable brands. It's a fact that Armani knows all too well, and so has developed its own EA7 line of sportswear. But it's not a case of all style, no substance, as the Italian company's range includes "technical" fabrics, along with windproof and water-resistant jackets.
Nike
Nike is a name synonymous with high performance, elite athletes and cutting edge technology. Their gym gear is no different and employs the brands newest technology to allow the wearer to move freely whilst having every bead of sweat wicked from their skin. There is a reason why Nike is so successful and if you haven't already, test out their clothing as it definitely stands up to their reputation.
SQDAthletica
SQDAthletica was born out of the need for men to get more invested in their health by supplying them with good looking high quality activewear. The name SQD (Squad) is symbolic of the brands desire to help unite men to get healthier. Their clothing is modern and good looking, designed in Australia.
Barbell Apparel
Barbell Apparel was founded with one, simple vision – Clothing should be better. Founded by a group of friends and athletes, the label was originally launched on Kickstarter offering athletic fit jeans. Since then, they've broadened their product lines to include active wear. At the core of the brand is a great fit - no matter your bod type, so if you struggle to fit into the mainstream brands sizing, Barbelll might be the brand for you.
Koral
Unlike most activewear brands Koral positions themselves exclusively within the 'luxury' segment. The result of this is a product that is focused on high quality, cutting edge materials and forward thinking designs. Whilst their range is design for staying active it will look just as good out for coffee or on the couch.
Macron
Founded in Italy in 1971, Macron is the European leader in sportwear. They've been known to provide the likes of UEFA referees, the Italian and Scottish national ruby teams as well as many other national and professional clubs with kits demonstrating their ability to make high quality, durable and high tech sportswear. Their consumer products are no different and their product base is immense. No matter what your looking for, Macron will no doubt have a product to suit.
