Fitness Awards 2023: Workout Clothing
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Fitness Awards 2023: Workout Clothing

Jan 14, 2024

The AskMen editorial team thoroughly researches & reviews the best gear, services and staples for life. AskMen may get paid if you click a link in this article and buy a product or service.

Everyone likes to workout in different ways. You might be a keen cyclist. You could be addicted to the gym. Or you might love nothing more than setting out for a run. But all workout enthusiasts have one thing in common: a love of workout clothing.

When it comes to the best workout clothing for AskMen's 2023 Fitness Awards, we considered thousands of products from hundreds of top brands, with comfort, performance, and style in mind. After much consideration, we’ve lined up the best workout hoodies, running jackets, yoga bags, and so much more.

These are the 36 winners (plus finalists) of the AskMen Fitness Awards 2023: Workout Clothing Edition.

The Rhone Reign Short Sleeve is versatile, comfortable and breathable, which is just about everything you could want from a workout shirt. It's designed for light workouts, but the GOLDFUSION anti-odor technology means you can still work up a serious sweat in this sweat-wicking top. It even offers UPF50+ protection, so you can take the workout outdoors without worrying. You get the choice of 20-plus colors, and the comfortable fit makes this shirt a strong option for pretty much everyone looking to workout in style.

$68 at Rhone.com

Comfort is key when you’re working out, and the long-sleeve Strato Tech Performance T-Shirt from Vuori is all about comfort. You will struggle to find a softer piece of working clothing, but that's not all, because this shirt is moisture-wicking, anti-odor, and has a UPF30+ rating. So you get next-level comfort with performance to match. The modern athletic fit also ensures that you’ll look good in every session.

$64 at VuoriClothing.com

What exactly makes this hoodie so remarkable? It's the combination of classic functionality and little touches of advanced technology. This lightweight hoodie keeps its shape through the toughest of workouts, and seamlessly combines high-performance materials with a cozy fit and feel that will make you want to keep this on well after you’ve left the gym. The mesh kangaroo pouch with zipper is another great touch that athletes and enthusiast amateurs will appreciate. Everyone has keys that need to be kept safe.

$149.99 at On-Running.com

There's just something about Gymshark tank tops that makes them look incredibly cool, and you don't even need to be ripped to look great in the Gymshark Legacy Drop Arm Tank (although it probably helps). There's also something about the drop arm design that really emphasizes all the best bits about your physique, and we all want that. This tank offers bags of old-school style with new-school functionality in a classic cut, with plenty of fresh colors to consider.

$24 at Gymshark.com

The HeatGear sleeveless top is Under Armour's original performance base layer, and sometimes the original is the best. It stays comfortable by wicking sweat and stretching with your body, and the mesh underarm and back panels offer strategic ventilation for when times get particularly tough. The ergonomic design keeps seams away from high abrasion areas, meaning you get added durability and more bang for your buck.

$30 at UnderArmour.com

Pants should be prioritized, and that's exactly what lululemon has done with its ABC Joggers. These pants offer incredible stretch to keep you moving comfortably through your workout, plus they dry fast, repel wrinkles, and hold their shape. The tapered fit with a stretchy cuff is always a good look, but there are also plenty of convenient touches to add functionality, like the front pockets with hidden media sleeves, secure back pocket, and drawcord that tucks discreetly into the lay-flat elastic waistband.

$128 at lululemon.com

Gym bunnies want to look good, but functionality is often more important than form. Fortunately, you don't need to decide between the two with the Castore Pro Tek Stretch Joggers. These stylish joggers are crafted from lightweight and high-stretch materials, with open side pockets for all your essentials, an internal drawcord adjustment at the waist for the perfect fit, and a concealed zip at the ankle so you can slip them off with ease. These joggers also use quick-drying technology to ensure you stay fresh and dry, even after the toughest of gym sessions.

$54 at Castore.com

Who needs seams, anyway? The Gymshark 315 Tights are designed to fade seamlessly into the background, so you can focus on what matters most, like lifting heavy weights over and over again. These tights come with sweat-wicking technology that keeps you feeling cool, while the seamless design reduces irritation to make sure you’re focused at all times. You also get things like an elasticated waistband, internal drawcord, and knurling inspired detailing. The result is a set of tights that deliver comfort and convenience whilst looking great.

$36 at Gymshark.com

These shorts are incredibly lightweight, durable and breathable, and they dry quickly to keep you cool when you’re working out. The woven fabric is built for the most intense workouts, and the perforated panels offer strategic ventilation when you’re bending, stretching and straining. Other touches like the half-back exposed elastic waistband and open hand pockets are the sort of thing you don't always care about, but when you’ve got them, you realize just how nice they are to have. You’ll never go back to standard shorts.

$50 at UnderArmour.com

Equipping yourself with all the latest and greatest gym gear doesn't work if you’re still rocking a pair of nasty old boxers. Upgrade your game with some high-performance boxers specially designed for training. These Björn Borg boxers offer a perfect fit for better performance and moisture-wicking materials to keep you dry. They’re also made from recycled fabric and look great, so what's not to love?

$90 for 5 at BjornBorg.com

Think about a great pair of socks as the groundwork for an even better workout. The lululemon Power Stride Tab Socks hug the shape of your foot for a distraction-free fit as you move through your workout. This is thanks to the 3D-knit PerformaHeel™ technology that creates a shaped fit and locked-in feeling, so you feel grounded and secure, even if you’re really pushing yourself. These socks also come in a range of lively colors, so you can freshen it up through your weekly schedule.

$58 at lululemon.com

We’ll begin with the obvious: The Reebok Nano X3 shoes look extremely cool. They are going to turn heads around the gym whilst giving off the impression that you really know what you’re doing (even if you don't). That is super important, but these shoes have got a lot going on under the hood to ensure you get the most out of your workout. The all-new midsole technology allows the heel to be solid and supportive while lifting, and soft and cushioned while running and jumping. The Flexweave woven textile upper provides stretch and support in all the right areas. And the Floatride Energy Foam in the heel provides lightweight cushioning for maximum support. It doesn't get more versatile than the Reebok Nano X3.

$150 at Reebok.com

You don't need gym gloves with advanced tech or super premium features. You need something that works in a straightforward way. You’re at the gym to lift, and you don't want any distractions. This is where the Harbinger Pro Weightlifting Gloves shine. They come with vented cushioned leather palms and wrap-around thumb protection, with resilient open-cell foam to wick away moisture, double-stitched seams for durability, and half-length fingers for improved grip. Bodybuilders, powerlifters, and fitness fanatics will have no doubt with these gloves.

$17 at Amazon.com

MANIMAL products make you feel like you could lift the gym and everyone in it. They just give off a vibe of power and confidence, and that's definitely the case with the wrist wraps. These wrist wraps are made with versatility and performance in mind, offering impressive levels of support, comfort, and reliability. You get the best of both worlds with these wrist wraps, as they stretch and support you through your training session. The velcro is also a lot more durable than the competition, so you shouldn't need to worry about switching things up anytime soon.

$35 at Manimal.com

The brand is literally called Built for Athletes, but don't just take their word for it. Check out their gym backpack and you’ll quickly see that their products are truly designed with athletes in mind. It has a 25 liter capacity with multiple compartments, pouches and zip pockets, and two side bottle holders for your water and protein shake. It offers adjustable sternum and waist straps, with YKK Japanese zips and upgraded extra-durable plastic hardware. It even has a Laser Cut Molle construction to give a cleaner aesthetic and stronger composition. This bag is made to survive whatever you put it through.

$130 at BuiltForAthletes.com

We know you need your yoga bag to look slick, but it also needs to be efficiently designed. Fortunately, the Y.U.M.C. Travel Yoga Gym Bag ticks both boxes. You can use it to store gym equipment, workout gear, extra clothes, a water bottle, your mat, towels, and more thanks to two front pockets, a large main compartment, wet dry pocket, and even shoe storage. It also has that all-important built-in yoga strap, making this yoga bag one of the most practical options on the market.

From $26.99 at Amazon.com

First and foremost, yoga hoodies need to be comfortable, and the ALO Highline Hoodie delivers that in abundance. It's made from soft and durable diagonal-brushed French terry, a versatile knit fabric with soft loops on the inside and a smooth surface on the outside, ensuring that you always feel supported and kinda fancy. There are plenty of other touches that make this hoodie irresistible, including a zippered kangaroo pocket, luxe three-panel hood with drawstring, and ribbed cuffs. Taking this off after your yoga session is the real challenge, here.

$94 at ALOYoga.com

A heated hoodie is not necessarily going to be the first thing you want to wear if you’re deep in an intense and sweaty workout, but there are plenty of occasions when athletes are in desperate need of something to keep them warm. The G-Tech Heated Hoodie x Sport 3.0 leads the way when it comes to heating technology, delivering the fastest, hottest, and most concentrated heat on the market directly to your hands. That's great news for athletes who rely on dexterity in cold conditions. Choose from three distinct heat settings, with a premium weather-proof outer shell that protects your hands from the harsh winter elements. You can even clean the G-Tech hand warmer in the washing machine and hang it to dry. No fuss.

$200 at GTechApparel.com

This running T-shirt is designed for racing, and that is immediately clear when you pull it on. This shirt is Swiss engineered and features a blend of high-tech fabrics in a stripped-down design for extreme lightness. The seams are taped so it feels like you’re not wearing anything at all, and the moisture wicking and fast drying materials ensure you stay dry and protected throughout your battle to the finish line. The back even features a highly breathable, moisture-controlling mesh fabric that delivers a refreshing flow of air for when things get tough. On has thought of everything, so you can stay focused on your next PR. We love it, and so will anyone who wants to go fast.

$79.99 at On-Running.com

Feeling cold when running is no fun at all, but you can't exactly throw on multiple layers and hope that everything will work out. Instead, you need something like the NB Heat Grid Half Zip. This stylish long-sleeve shirt is built for cold-weather runs with NB HEAT technology helping you feel warm while wicking away moisture. It also offers a textured fleece fabric, a woven chest pocket for storage, and thumb loops for a streamlined fit that looks great (even if you’re struggling).

$89.99 at NewBalance.com

SAYSKY is making a lot of noise in the running world, and that's simply down to the fact that its range of high-quality items are designed to give you the edge. The SAYSKY Combat Singlet is a great example of this quality, with moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties that ensure high breathability and increased airflow for when things start to heat up on the track. It's also made from 100% recycled Japanese polyester, a high-performance lightweight material that feels soft and flexible against your skin. So it's good for the environment and great for your running goals.

$60 at SAYSKY.us

Nike knows a thing or two about running, and the Nike Windrunner is packed full of advanced features to squeeze everything you can out of your next workout. It's made from water-repellent materials with vent details at the back and at the chevron to keep you cool when things get hot and sweaty. The Windrunner is constructed from at least 50% recycled polyester fibers, and has a packable design for added convenience. All of that is important, but what really sets this jacket apart from the competition is the way it looks. It's just beautiful, and will turn heads on your next run, guaranteed.

$120 at Nike.com

This lightweight, breathable and wind resistant performance cap offers absolutely everything you want from a running hat, and plenty more that you hadn't even considered. The unlined stretch fabric provides a secure fit, with an adjustable back strap making sure your cap doesn't shift around. The durable water repellent finish sheds light rain, while the UPF 50 rating blocks out the sun. It even has a side panel zip pocket for your essentials, and a Janji signature reflective logo on the back for added visibility. We could go on. You’ll still need to do the running, but this cap can handle the rest.

$36 at Janji.com

Stop what you’re doing and check out these running sunglasses from Oakley. We shouldn't even need to talk specifics, because just look at them. They are stunning, with a wide, high bridge fit that oozes cool. The plant-based BiO-Matter frame is another big positive, and the three-point fit helps provide balance and comfort. Prizm Lens Technology enhances color and contrast, so your next run will look amazing. And so will you.

$173 at Oakley.com

There are faster running shoes. There are shoes that are better for recovery. There are probably more stylish running shoes. But the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 does absolutely everything well, whilst looking great. If you want something that can keep up with your fastest speed sessions whilst still offering the support you need to recover on your long and slow runs, look no further than this brilliant all-rounder from Saucony. With a softer and more flexible feel for everyday use, the Speed 3 has PWRRUN PB foam cushioning, a winged nylon plate, and Speedroll technology that propels you towards your running goals in 2023.

$170 at Saucony.com

The race to offer the fastest running shoe is intense, with the likes of Nike and Hoka really pushing things along. The battle to be the best running shoe for race day rages on, but we think the Asics Metaspeed Sky is leading the pack. It promises an energetic running experience that helps propel you towards new personal bests, and we believe it. The multi-directional mesh material improves ventilation and stability, with a lightweight carbon plate that guides your foot and provides fantastic energy return. If you’re concerned about support, don't be. The Flytefoam Blast Turbo provides cushioning that improves compression and creates a responsive feel underfoot, so you can go faster for longer.

$250 at Asics.com

Running fast is fun, but sometimes you need to keep things a little more relaxed. Recovery is key for progress, and the Brooks Glycerin 20 running shoe provides everything you need to cruise through your next recovery run. The Glycerin 20 neutral cushioned running shoes offer incredible levels of comfort thanks to supremely soft DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, an improved fit and beautifully smooth transitions. The new lightweight upper also contributes to a relaxed ride that takes away the strain. Your feet will thank you.

$160 at BrooksRunning.com

Trail runners require special running shoes for handling tough terrain. The Hoka Mafate Speed 4 represents the pinnacle of this category thanks to its responsive cushioning that can handle even the most unpredictable of terrains. This updated shoe comes with new textiles and construction, including a breathable, single layer jacquard mesh and two-part PROFLY midsole with the lightest, most responsive Hoka foam underfoot. That sort of thing guarantees comfort, but what about performance? The low-profile cushion bed keeps your foot closer to the ground, and utilizes a firmer material designed to provide an efficient push-off, so you can make your way through the trails with speed and reliability.

$185 at Hoka.com

These eye-catching running spikes are designed with the support and stability you need to pick up PBs from 800 to 5,000 meters. These spikes are made from AtomKnit (the latest version of FlyKnit), which delivers a lightweight, contoured fit with minimal water absorption and enhanced breathability. The ZoomX foam in the heel is super responsive and lightweight, giving you fantastic levels of energy return and impact absorption. You get all of this on top of a Zoom Air unit and carbon fiber plate that provides a snappy sensation for serious pace. That's what's going on inside these spikes, but what's on the outside also counts for a lot. These are real lookers, and everyone knows bright spikes result in faster times.

$180 at Nike.com

You can easily spend hundreds of dollars on running shoes that will squeeze every last second out of your legs, but plenty of running newbies will want something much cheaper that still delivers where it really counts. Step forward, the Brooks Launch 9. This budget-friendly shoe is ideal for beginners: it feels light, speedy, and most importantly, fun to run in. Brooks has used streamlined materials and a forefoot design that propels you forward on any type of run, with responsive transitions, extra breathability, and added reflectivity for safety. Take your first strides in the Brooks Launch 9.

$69.95 at BrooksRunning.com

We love bright and bold running shorts, but substance is more important than style. The Ten Thousand Distance Shorts have set the new standard for high-performance running gear, and lead the way with lightness, range of motion, comfort and fit. Whether you’re smashing out a speed session, setting off on a long run, or giving it your all on race day, this featherweight and ultra-breathable short is your perfect running buddy.

$78 at TenThousand.cc

Desperate for a new PR? These tights might make the difference. The Nike Dri-FIT ADV AeroSwift Tights take you to the finish with a smooth, lightweight, and secure feel. These tights are geared to help you reach your personal best, but the fact they are made from 75% recycled polyester fibers shouldn't be overlooked.

$90 at Nike.com

Socks are often overlooked, but that's not right. Just ask your feet what they think, and you’ll understand the importance of the right pair of socks for running. The TrueEnergy Performance Crew Socks are powered by Infrared Technology, if you can believe it. What does this mean? Infrared ceramic crystals are ground and permanently infused into the polymer yarn, so when combined with your body's natural heat, infrared energy is formed which improves circulation and speeds up healing and tissue regeneration. That's good enough for us, and for your feet.

$21.99 at TrueEnergySocks.com

When you’re setting out on a hike and investing in your adventurous side, you want a shoe that can keep up and provide the comfort and confidence you need to enjoy your outdoor experience. The Terrex Free Hiker 2 has a breathable Gore-Tex membrane and Continental rubber outsole for handling just about any condition under foot. You also get a reliable level of traction and incredible energy return thanks to BOOST cushioning, so you can keep moving without distractions.

$184 at adidas.com

Versatility is such an important factor in any item of workout clothing, and it doesn't get much more versatile than the Under Armour SlipSpeed Training Shoes. They feel super comfortable and cool, cushion your feet well, fit snuggly, and can handle your toughest training sessions. The heel even converts easily from recovery to training mode, so there aren't many activities that these shoes can't handle. Run to the gym, workout, and then walk back. Your SlipSpeed Training Shoes have got you covered.

$150 at UnderArmour.com

There's nothing particularly glamorous about insoles, but there's no need to get fancy with something that's designed to provide pain relief. Dr. Scholl's Plantar Fasciitis All-Day Pain Relief Orthotics are specifically aimed at people who suffer from plantar fasciitis pain in the heel. If that's you, then you should seriously consider adding these to your shoe rotation. They are clinically proven, and scientifically designed and engineered to provide all-day pain relief, so you can finally workout without the discomfort. We can't promise you won't still suffer from tough sessions, but at least your feet will feel fine.

$16.99 at DrScholls.com

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