In the wake of Honor Jones’s slam against “women who wear yoga pants to the gym” (you can read her full essay here), it’s worth reiterating that women’s choice of workout clothes should not be judged. Whether they’re going for a quick walk around the block, taking a Soul Cycle class, or doing a full-on circuit session at the gym, they deserve to feel comfortable, supported, and, most importantly, like they can move freely.

Luckily, with the right gym attire women , you can achieve just that. Start with a pair of leggings that fit snug without feeling too tight or digging into your waist. Look for styles with enough compression to support your core while you’re squatting, lunging, and running, and choose from a range of colors and lengths. If you’re going to be sweating a lot, you might want to opt for a dark shade so that your gym apparel doesn’t show through.

Gear Up for Success: Essential Women’s Workout Apparel for a Powerful Fitness Routine

For a sporty yet casual outfit, pair your leggings with this breathable tank. It’s crafted from Supima cotton, which has longer fibers and better colorfastness to resist fading after frequent washings. Then, top it off with a cropped hoodie that toes the line between gym gear and everyday loungewear—perfect for walking or heading out to grab a smoothie post-workout.

For gym-to-street style, shop this female-founded active brand’s line. Koral makes sleek designs that elevate your look but are also made for high-intensity workouts, thanks to snazzy materials like shiny leather-like fabric and slimming silhouettes that are comfortable and flattering to the female form.