We’re now in an era where leggings and workout tanks are worn as much for fitness as they are for everyday fashion. And I’m not sure about you, but I am all for it. As a certified fitness instructor, I’m in and out of the studio teaching classes every day, so it’s important that I have quality fitness clothing that can both stand up to the challenge of the workouts while also providing a comfortable wear.
Below, I’m sharing some of my favorite workout fashions, each piece at two price points — one higher-priced, and one more affordably priced. I own all of these items and can attest to the fact that the lower-priced items are just as good as the “luxury” brand — and they’re half the cost. Plus, each of these items can be worn to the gym, out with friends, or just running errands around town. Enjoy and happy shopping!
SPORTS BRAS
Free To Be Serene Bra ($58) vs. CRZ YOGA Strappy Padded Sports Bra ($20 to $23)
These bras are known for being super breezy and supportive, and every gal needs a cute detailing in the back. I own several of the Free To Be bras, and I can honestly say CRZ YOGA bras have just as much support with removable pads, soft and breathable cups, and adjustable criss-cross straps.
Bruna Infinity Sports Bra ($80) vs. Powersoft Sports Bra (on sale for $22, reg. $29.99)
Camo print is still very much on trend. Wear these camo sports bras as is, or pair them with a jacket or light sweater. Find the Bruna Infinity Sports Bra for $80 at Koral, or get the same support with the similar Powersoft Sports Bra that is on sale for $22 (reg. $29.99) at Old Navy.
TANKS
Held Tight Tank ($44) vs. Dragon Fit tank ($19.98 to $22.98)
Looking for the perfect tank that isn’t cropped, but also isn’t super-long? Here you go. Neither of these options move or shift, and if you sweat, it’s barely noticeable. You can also pair these tanks with an oversized sweater or jacket for a comfy night out. The Held Tight Tank can be found at Lululemon for $44, and the more affordable Dragon Fit top ranges from $19.98 to $22.98 on Amazon.
Muscle Love Crop Tank ($58) vs. Active Oil Wash Muscle Tee ($9.99)
Not only can you wear these tanks in and out of the gym, but you can also pair them with a comfy pair of joggers or sweats to spruce up your athleisure look. Not to mention the cut is so cute! The Muscle Love Crop Tank is $58 at Lululemon, whereas the Active Oil Wash Muscle Tee is $9.99 at Forever 21.
SHORTS & SKORTS
Speed Up Short ($58) vs. CRZ Yoga Women’s Quick-Dry Athletic Shorts ($24)
Look red hot in these sassy shorts, which can be worn in warmer weather and well into the fall. They have the same texture and length, and neither one moves or gap in the waist. Find the Speed Up Short for $58 at Lululemon, and the more affordable CRZ YOGA Women’s Quick-Dry Athletic Shorts are $24 on Amazon.
Match Point Skort ($69) vs. Slazenger Women’s Tech Pleated Golf Skort (on sale for $11.97, reg. $50)
Contrary to popular belief, you can actually wear golf and tennis skorts when you’re not playing either of these sports. Easy and breezy, these options are both extremely comfortable and perfect for both fitness and leisure. Find the Match Point Skort for $69 at Athleta. The Slazenger Women’s Tech Golf Skort is on sale for $11.97 (reg. $50) at Dick’s Sporting Goods.
TIGHTS & LEGGINGS
Cutout Tights ($65) vs. QUEENIEKE yoga leggings ($9.99 to $20.99)
Pretty in pink! These colorful leggings brighten up any day (and any workout for that matter). Both are super soft and also offer comfortable tummy support. The cutout tights are $65 at Nike, and the QUEENIEKE yoga leggings on Amazon range from $9.99 to $20.99.
High Rise Full-Length Legging In Takara Shine ($109) vs. Active Faux Leather Leggings ($22)
Just say YES to leather leggings! On the left are the Carbon 38, which are absolutely striking. On the right? The Active Leather Leggings from Forever 21, and they are equally as fabulous. They don’t move or shift, they’re high-waisted, and I get so many compliments every time I wear them. Plus, compared to the pricier option, this one is a no-brainer.
JOGGERS
Adidas Beyond 18 jogger pants ($65) vs. Mesily jogger pants ($19.99)
Joggers: The ultimate comfy pant that makes you look stylish without even trying. Wear these to the gym, the grocery store, or even throw them on with a pair of sneakers and a sweater for a cozy night out. The Beyond 18 jogger pants at Adidas are $65, but for more than $40 less, you can get the just-as-stylish Mesily jogger pants for $19.99 at Amazon.
Performance Jogger ($84) vs. Women’s Cuddl Duds (on sale for $25.49, reg. $38)
Cozy and comfy is the name of the game with these fleece pants. Both are super-soft and feature a drawstring waist. Wear them to work out, or wear them to lounge around. The only difference is the price — the Vuori performance joggers are $84, and the Women’s Cuddl Duds are on sale for $25.49 (reg. $38) at Kohl’s.
OUTERWEAR
Pack It Down Jacket ($198) vs. Women’s Packable Down Puffer Jacket ($60)
Getting around when it’s cold out can be a hassle with all the thick and cumbersome layers required to stay warm. But with a compact puffer jacket, it’s a bit easier to navigate as these pieces are easy to pack away or fold and stash. Both of these jackets offer warmth and are easy to wear, and each can easily be folded down or thrown in a carry-on. The difference? The Pack It Down Jacket is $198 at Lululemon, and the Women’s Packable Down Puffer Jacket is $60 at Target.
Down For It All Vest ($148) vs. Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Puffer Vest ($26.50)
Just like the jacket above, a vest is so easy to throw on during a chilly day when you want to be warm yet look put together. Wear one of these with your favorite joggers or jeans and a pair of tennis shoes, and you’re ready for the day. Find the Down For It All Vest for $148 at Lululemon and the lightweight puffer vest for $26.50 on Amazon.
Next time you want to buy a new piece of athletic gear, whether for working out or just running errands around town, make sure to check out your options to make your wallet happy!
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