Buying sportswear: how to choose comfortable, functional clothing for every workout

Sportswear should suit the activity you’re doing. Joggers for warming up have different requirements from running shorts or yoga leggings. Yet many shoppers are guided mainly by colour, brand name or an attractive product photo. As a result, trousers might feel too warm, a vest might be impractical or leggings might slip down as you move.

The main pitfalls when buying sportswear are:

• Choosing the wrong fit: slim-fit trousers can feel comfortable, but leave too little room for squats or lunges. A loose top might shift around during an intense workout.
• Confusing fabric with performance: cotton feels soft, but according to product specifications, it doesn’t always dry as quickly as polyester. Fleece joggers are comfortable for relaxing and warming up, but may feel too warm for intense cardio.
• Not checking the sizing: an S, M or L won’t mean the same thing across every brand. Always check waist, hip or chest measurements in centimetres.
• Ignoring care instructions: washing at too high a temperature, using fabric softener or tumble drying can affect the fit and fabric properties.

The most important features of sportswear

1. Choose fabric to suit how you’ll use it

Gymwear, running clothes and kit for intense workouts are often made from polyester or a polyester-elastane blend. According to the product description, these fabrics can be lightweight, stretchy and quick-drying. Elastane adds extra stretch, which is useful for yoga, gym workouts and dynamic exercises.

Cotton feels natural and soft. It’s suitable for comfortable leisurewear, walking and light workouts. Cotton fleece joggers, such as some styles from Adidas or Under Armour, can offer warmth and comfort while you’re relaxing or warming up. For prolonged, intense exercise, it’s worth checking the drying time and ventilation details in the product information.

Pay attention to marketing claims, too. If a brand mentions moisture management, odour control or quick drying, present these as claims made in the brand’s product information, not as guaranteed results for every wearer.

2. Check the fit and freedom of movement

The most common fits are:

• Slim fit: sits closer to the body for a neat, streamlined look.
• Regular fit: offers a moderate amount of room and is versatile for workouts and everyday wear.
• Loose fit: gives you more room to move and feels relaxed, but may shift during certain exercises.
• Fitted: sits close to the body and is often used for running shorts or clothing with a built-in compression layer.

For sports trousers, an elasticated waistband and drawcord are practical details. They make the fit easier to adjust. Ribbed cuffs can help stop the legs riding up, while pockets are handy for keys or a phone. Check that shorts are the right length for your workout: knee-length shorts are different from a 7-inch running style.

3. Use the size chart in centimetres

Don’t just compare your usual size with the label. Take your measurements at home with a flexible tape measure:

1. Measure your waist at its narrowest point, without pulling the tape measure tight.
2. For women’s sportswear, also measure your hips and chest.
3. Compare your measurements with the size chart for the specific product.
4. Check whether the recommended fit is loose, regular, slim or fitted.

For example, according to the product information, the Adidas Trefoil Essentials Pants IY7361 are available in waist size ranges including 76–81 cm for S, 81–86 cm for M and 91–96 cm for XL. The trousers have a slim fit, fleece made from 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester, a drawcord and side pockets. Checking the size is especially important if you’re usually between two sizes.

Which sportswear suits your needs?

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Adidas Trefoil Essentials Pants IY7361 Black M

Why it suits this profile: These joggers are a practical choice for beginners looking for one comfortable pair of trousers for warming up, wearing at home and light workouts. The product information lists a slim fit, fleece fabric and an adjustable waistband.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The sizing guide includes waist measurements, and the drawcord helps you adjust the fit. Check that the slim fit leaves enough room for your exercises.

Key benefit & highlights

70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester; fleece fabric, side pockets and ribbed cuffs according to the product description.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality

Under Armour Women's Tech Knockout Tank Black Sportstyle Collection S

Why it suits this profile: According to Under Armour, this vest is suitable for workouts, training and everyday sportswear. The product description lists a regular fit, racerback design and fabric made from 90% polyester and 10% elastane.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Size S is linked to a chest measurement of 85–91.5 cm. This makes it less likely that you’ll choose based on the letter on the label alone.

Key benefit & highlights

Four-way stretch and a racerback design are listed in the product details; the care instructions recommend washing at a low temperature.

Suitable for: Specific activities & intense training

Under Armour Men's Launch 7'' 2-In-1 Shorts Black Sportstyle Collection XL

Why it suits this profile: These sports shorts are designed for running and intense workouts. The product description lists an outer layer, built-in inner shorts, mesh panels, reflective details and a phone pocket.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to the product information, the inner shorts provide extra coverage. The drawcord waistband lets you adjust the fit; check that the XL size, for a waist of 94–104 cm, is right for you.

Key benefit & highlights

2-in-1 construction, open pockets, an internal phone pocket and reflective details according to the product information.

Frequently asked questions about sportswear

What sportswear is suitable for the gym?

Choose a top that gives you enough room to move and trousers or shorts that stay in place. Lightweight, stretchy fabrics are often practical for intense gym sessions. Also check whether the fit is fitted, regular or loose. For strength training, a secure waistband may matter more than an extra-light fabric.

How often should you wash sportswear?

Wash sportswear after intense use, following the care label. Turn garments inside out, use the recommended temperature and avoid fabric softener if the manufacturer advises against it. If the product information says the garment isn’t suitable for tumble drying, it’s best to air-dry it.

What’s the difference between joggers and sports trousers?

Joggers are often designed for warmth, comfort and everyday wear. Sports trousers for running or gym workouts are usually lighter and may include features such as mesh, stretch, reflective details or a phone pocket. Choose according to your activity, the temperature and how much freedom of movement you want, not just how they look.