The Best Activewear For The New Year and New You

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The new year is here, and I’m back in the ‘New Year, New Me’ mentality when it comes to fitness. (So original, I know.) As part of my fitness-focused efforts this year, I’m taking a close look at what’s in my activewear drawer.

Why? Because there’s something about wearing the right activewear that gives me a little extra boost as I head to the gym. The right fit, fabrics, and cuts make me feel good and get me in the headspace to go all out in my workouts. Today, I’m sharing some of my favorite activewear pieces I’m keeping in steady rotation.

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A Tank with Function and High Design

Free People

Headstart Tank

$48
$48
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Who doesn’t love a corset-inspired activewear tank? Credit: Free People

Free People’s Headstart Tank ($48) is perfect for anyone who wants all the benefits of a performance-ready activewear tank with the sleek design of high fashion. It’s lightweight, has a high neck, and boasts a subtle corset-inspired design. This tank is a perfect transitional piece you can wear to the gym or for a night out.

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A Cozy Wrap

Spiritual Gangster

Ballet Rib Wrap Sweater

$78
$78
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Perfect for yoga or lounging, this wrap top can be styled various ways. Credit: Spiritual Gangster

The Ballet Rib Wrap Sweater ($78) from Spiritual Gangster is sneakily versatile: It can be worn frontward or backward. You can also tie it any number of ways, changing the style and look of this comfy rib sweater to create multiple looks. I throw this on to stay warm before and after a yoga class, but it could work for almost any type of exercise.

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Alo

Alosoft High-Waist 7/8 Highlight Legging

$98
$98
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Black leggings are the activewear’s little black dress. Credit: Alo

Regardless of the activity you engage in, every activewear closet needs a pair of high-quality black leggings. The Alosoft High-Waist 7/8 Highlight Legging ($98) is stretchy enough to accommodate various fitness activities and super comfortable with a soft, velvety finish. They’re high-waisted and have a nice contouring back seam for a fit that feels tailor-made.

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Merino Wool Sweatpants

Tracksmith

Downeaster Pants

$148
$148
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Soft Merino wool blend pants are perfect for any activity you have planned for the day. Credit: Tracksmith

The New England company Tracksmith has created a meant-to-last versatile sweatpant for you to add to your activewear closet. The Downeaster Pants ($148) are made with merino wool which prevents odors, improves wicking, and keeps you warmer longer. Plus: If you live somewhere with a cold winter (like me!), these are ideal for outdoor runs.

These are a bit on the pricier end of the activewear spectrum, but once you get into these pants, you’ll appreciate the investment in quality.

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Compressive Leggings

Girlfriend Collective

Compressive Drawstring Legging

$82
$82
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There’s something about a compressive legging that just makes me feel…secure. Credit: Girlfriend Collective

The Compressive Drawstring Legging ($82) is made with Girlfriend Collective’s signature sweat-wicking, sheer-proof Compressive fabric. It has an ultra high-rise drawstring waist, so no matter the activity, these leggings stay in place without sliding down. Bonus: They’re eco-friendly and sustainably made.

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A Form-Fitting Long-Sleeve Shirt

Vuori

Long-Sleeve Mudra Fitted Tee

$68
$68
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Moisture-wicking fabrics are perfect for those take-no-prisoner days at the gym. Credit: Vuori

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A Fleece Zip-Up Jacket

Backcountry

Stoic Tech Fleece Hooded Full-Zip

$24.99
$24.99
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Stay warm and sleek on those ski slopes. Credit: Backcountry

Backcountry’s Stoic Tech Fleece Hooded Full-Zip ($24.99) is designed with a tech polyester blend that wicks away moisture and regulates body heat. My favorite feature: It has thumbholes and a fixed hood to ensure the jacket stays snugly in place while you exercise. This is my go-to jacket when I need a bit of warmth without adding bulk.

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Free People
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Spiritual Gangster
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Tracksmith
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Girlfriend Collective
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Vuori
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Backcountry
A Tank with Function and High Design
Free People
Headstart Tank
$48
$48
Code:
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A Cozy Wrap
Spiritual Gangster
Ballet Rib Wrap Sweater
$78
$78
Code:
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Alo
Alosoft High-Waist 7/8 Highlight Legging
$98
$98
Code:
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Merino Wool Sweatpants
Tracksmith
Downeaster Pants
$148
$148
Code:
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Compressive Leggings
Girlfriend Collective
Compressive Drawstring Legging
$82
$82
Code:
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A Form-Fitting Long-Sleeve Shirt
Vuori
Long-Sleeve Mudra Fitted Tee
$68
$68
Code:
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A Fleece Zip-Up Jacket
Backcountry
Stoic Tech Fleece Hooded Full-Zip
$24.99
$24.99
Code:
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A New Year, New You, New Activewear

With the right activewear, you can head into any workout feeling properly suited for the activity. From great leggings to base layers to versatile tops and beyond: Hopefully you’ve found a few new favorites to add to your workout rotation.

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Free People
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Spiritual Gangster
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Tracksmith
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Girlfriend Collective
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Vuori
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Backcountry

Additional Reading

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