Expensive doesn’t mean better when choosing athletic apparel, experts say

Table of Contents

Editor’s note: Before starting any new exercise routine, schedule a check-up with your doctor. You should stop exercising right away if you experience discomfort or pain.

If you've decided to start a regular exercise routine this year - great job! But does that mean you need to shell out money for expensive athletic clothing? While specialized activewear can be a worthwhile purchase, it's not an absolute necessity, according to experts.

“Basically, if you're working out just for fun or to get more exercise, it's not necessary to buy special clothes right away,” said Dr. Joel Hardwick, a clinical exercise physiologist at the University of Illinois Chicago. “You just need something that's not too tight, not too loose, and feels good to wear.”

Comfort is essential, agreed Kaylee Johnson, a lead performance coach with a fitness app based in Lafayette, Colorado. "If purchasing specific clothing is a barrier to going to the gym, just wear whatever's comfortable," Johnson said. "It doesn't have to be perfect."

You'll want to pick out clothes from your closet with care, especially if you'll be outdoors exercising.

When choosing what to wear, it's more crucial to consider the local climate and weather conditions, like rain.

**Specialized Fabrics:** Certain fabrics, such as Thinsulate or PrimaLoft, are specifically designed to retain warmth while being lightweight and breathable.

Synthetic materials are the better choice, as they allow air to circulate and absorb moisture.

In cold weather, layers are crucial, Johnson said. You can take them off as you warm up and put them back on when you cool down.

By considering these factors, you can select the perfect pair of shoes that will enhance your exercise experience.

When it comes to exercising, whether it's indoors or outdoors, the shoes you choose can be just as important. Normally, it's best to pick a shoe that's designed specifically for the activity you'll be doing (such as running, basketball, or tennis, and so on). However, a single all-purpose sports shoe can still be functional too.

"It's usually okay as long as your shoes aren't too worn out, not too tight or too loose, and give your toes enough room to move," Hardwick said.

Wearing good, supportive shoes is crucial, Johnson said, with the exception being strength training, which may require different types of footwear.

The issue with wearing running shoes to strength train is that they are too cushioned," Johnson said. "You're better off having shoes with flat soles for stability.

.

Benefits of workout clothes

Once you've found a form of exercise you really enjoy, consider investing in at least one complete set of exercise clothes, Johnson said. This can help with performance, comfort, and even boost your confidence.

I've had clients come in wearing loose sweatpants which were a hindrance when they exercised. Once they transitioned to form-fitting leggings, everything improved. They reported being both cooler and more comfortable.

Wearing baggy T-shirts while engaging in activities that involve arm movement, like playing tennis or pickleball, isn't recommended. Johnson advised opting for more fitted shirts, which will likely make you happier.

In the journal Frontiers in Sports and Active Living.

A consumer protection organization.

The center advises individuals to limit their exposure to BPA by removing and washing their sportswear and socks as soon as possible after each workout and to also avoid wearing clothing made from blends containing polyester and spandex as a precautionary measure.

In the end, the kind of clothes you choose will likely be determined by how passionate you become about the exercise you're doing. If you really get into running, for example, high-end running shoes can help improve your performance by making it more efficient, according to Hardwick. This means you'll use less energy to maintain your normal pace.

If you enjoy cycling, purchasing padded cycling shorts and form-fitting shirts will make your rides more enjoyable, Johnson observed.

"Don't let clothes be a budget concern for you," she said.

Hardwick agreed. "More expensive doesn't mean better," he said. "As long as you're feeling comfortable and confident, then your clothing is doing its job."

Melanie Radzicki McManus She is a freelance writer who focuses on writing about hiking, traveling, and exercise.

For more news and updates, sign up for their newsletters.