Fitness Awards 2026: Best Workout Clothing
The Best Apparel, Shoes, Gears and Accessories to Elevate Your Training in the New Year
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.
Our annual AskMen Fitness Awards are back for 2026, and we’ve spent months testing and comparing the best home gym equipment, fitness tech, supplements and gear to separate the best from the rest and declare our winners.
In our most competitive categories, more than a dozen products vied for the top spot, while our panel of judges, encompassing current and former college athletes, weekend warriors and personal trainers, worked overtime to generate feedback and vote on winners.
Before we get to business, we’d like to thank not only our hard-working judges for their efforts but also all of the brand reps who battled bad weather, delays and postal worker strikes to ensure our judges got their hands-on testing experience.
Finally, here are our favorite products of 2026 in the category of Best Workout Clothing:
Best Workout Clothing
Best Workout Shirt
On Train-T
A classic silhouette built with modern technology, the Train-T from On is a fantastic training shirt for all varieties of workouts. Flatlock stitching throughout the shirt and a ribbed neckline eliminates chafing, while the angled shoulder seam unlocks more mobility in overhead movements like presses and pull-ups. The blended fabric also does a great job wicking away moisture and promoting airflow, so even heavy sweaters can wear this shirt with confidence.
Best Workout Hoodie
Fabletics The Cloud Jersey Hoodie
The ultra-lightweight and aptly-named The Cloud Jersey Hoodie from Fabletics was our consensus choice for best workout hoodie. It offers the coverage of a hoodie with the feel of a shirt, never impeding movements or trapping heat, and looking good both in and out of the gym. The fabric is both breathable and anti-static, so you won’t have to dread the switch from the ab mats to the elliptical ever again, and it dries amazingly quickly, which is a huge plus if you have errands to run after your workout
Best Workout Tank
Nike Dri-FIT Training Tank Top
There’s something undeniably iconic about a Nike training tank top, and the faded lettering and relaxed fit are a clear throwback to a time when Michael Jackson dominated the pop charts and Michael Jordan dominated the courts. There’s substance to this style, though: Nike’s Dri-FIT technology is still equal or better to any competing fabric for sweat-wicking and breathability, while the knit fabric withstands everything from a pickup basketball game to HIIT workouts with ease.
Best Walking Shoes
Kizik Athens
Walking went from a pastime for poets, philosophers and tourists to a fantastic way to burn calories without adding fatigue and stress to your muscles and joints, but you need a comfortable, durable pair of shoes that can handle 10,000+ steps a day, every day, and the Athens from Kizik are exactly that. Their hands-free technology, allowing you to slip your feet in over the heel without damaging it, is simply the best in the business, while the molded EVA foam midsole and rubber pods on the outsole add comfort and reduce ground forces.
Best Compression Shirt
Under Armour HeatGear Compression Shirt
The OG of compression apparel still makes fantastic performance clothing, especially if you prize durability and warmth. The HeatGear Compression shirt will allow you to train at the highest intensity, even when temps fall to their lowest, while keeping you not only warm but also dry. Strategically placed mesh panels at the underarms and back promote airflow, while the faux-turtleneck design helps keep your core temperature that much higher.
Best Workout Pants
Lululemon Pace Breaker Pant
If you prefer to train in pants, you need a lightweight, breathable and sweat-wicking option that won’t tear in two the second you decide to do some lunges or Romanian deadlifts. Lululemon’s Pace Breaker pants incorporate ultra-stretchy Lycra to improve the fabric’s four-way stretch, hugely enhancing mobility, and a mesh yoke at the rear to promote airflow. Zippered hems and an internal drawcord at the waistband add customizability, while zippered side pockets keep your valuables secure, even when you’re stretching or doing floor work.
Best Workout Joggers
Fabletics The One Jogger
Engineered for both indoor and outdoor workouts, The One Jogger from Fabletics uses a high-stretch, quick-drying fabric to withstand your most dynamic, high-intensity workouts, while convenience features like reflective detailing along the pant legs and hidden zip pockets make these pants easy to live with, whether you’re pushing the pace on an outdoor run or grabbing groceries. And with more than 10 color options, nine waist sizes and three different lengths, it’s easy to dial in your fit.
Best Compression Tights
On Performance Tights
Boasting a sleek, form-fitting design with minimal seams to offer the maximum range of motion, the Performance Tights from On do a fantastic job both wicking away sweat (their DryTec moisture-wicking tech has to be experienced to be understood) and insulating your legs against the cold. A zippered back pocket keeps your keys secure, even on fast-paced runs, while side pockets can store your phone or wallet safely.
Best Workout Shorts
Reigning Champ 4-Way Stretch Nylon Training Short
Built from ultra-durable, lightweight nylon designed specifically to wick away moisture and resist pilling and abrasion, these Nylon Training Shorts from Reigning Champ come with a built-in compression liner to protect your skin from chafing as your workout intensity ramps up. Mesh side panels promote air circulation and improve dry times, while a sweat-resistant zip pocket ensures your phone will never smell like it went through a workout too.
Best Workout Underwear
Woolx Reaction Boxer Briefs
Engineered from a combination of Australian merino wool and Woolx’s proprietary DuraLite fabric to be both quick-drying and odor-repelling, these ultra-comfy boxer briefs offer support where you need it most and room to breathe and move when you run, walk or jump. The no-roll waistband stood up to everything from squats to high-knees, while the concealed fly keeps the looks of these boxers sleek.
Best Workout Socks
Balega Ultraglide No Show Socks
Tough enough to wear on hikes but equally capable of keeping up with your most dynamic workouts, these ultra-versatile socks from Balega use a seamless construction to reduce friction and a yarn-based fabric to promote airflow and wick away moisture. The heel and toe box are reinforced with additional cushioning, to protect against impact and promote durability, while the contoured knitting ensures a solid fit conforming to your foot shape.
Best Workout Shoes
Reebok Nano X5 Edge
As a special, updated variant of Reebok’s best-selling Nano X5 training shoe, the Edge lives up to its name with aggressive styling and performance to match. A durable Flexweave upper and DualResponse midsole offer fantastic responsiveness without compromising on comfort, while the rubber outsole and wave-like traction pattern deliver confidence-inspiring grip whether you’re running or doing agility drills.
Best Squat Shoes
Nike Romaleos 4
Forgot Air Force 1s and Jordans. For gym rats, the Romaleos are the iconic Nike shoe, and the fourth iteration of the design only adds to the legend. These are fierce, with a design that somehow manages to be both functional and menacing at the same time. The ultra-wide base, rigid midsole and straps-over-laces design gives you total confidence in the shoe’s stability, which is a major asset when you’re squatting hundreds of pounds to depth, while the raised heel makes it that much easier to get a full range of motion.
Best Gym Bag
Aer Gym Duffel 3
Surprisingly spacious on the inside despite its diminutive looks on the outside, the Gym Duffel 3 from Aer offers refined good looks, multiple carry points, an ultra-durable 1680D ballistic nylon exterior and multiple compartments to separate your gym shoes from your clothes or your sweat-stained shirt from your valuables. An extra-large water bottle pocket accommodates your biggest water bottles, while a quick-access back pocket keeps your valuables (including your gym pass!) secured but close at hand.
Best Yoga Bag
Lululemon Adjustable Yoga Mat Bag
If you’re in the market for a minimalist yoga bag to carry your necessities, including your keys, wallet, yoga mat and towel, the Adjustable Yoga Mat Bag from Lululemon does a fantastic job. The water-repellent fabric keeps your mat safe, even in heavy rain, while the easy-access pockets, including a dedicated water bottle slot, ensure all your essentials are always within reach.
Best Insoles
VKTRY Gold Carbon Fiber Performance Insoles
If you’re going to replace your worn out insoles, opt for an actual upgrade like the VKTRY Golf Carbon Fiber Performance Insoles. These customizable insoles ask you to specify not only your shoe size but also your weight and the sport you’ll play most often while wearing them, allowing VKTRY to offer you the most tailormade experience possible. The insole baseplate is made from aerospace-grade carbon fiber while a low-density closed cell foam midsole adds both comfort and responsiveness — small wonder, then, that these insoles are favorites of some of the most prestigious college athletic programs.
Best Hiking Jacket
Ibex Shak Jacket
Ibex are the absolute masters of merino wool, managing to spin this cozy fabric into performance apparel that stands the test of time, and their Shak Jacket is a great demonstration. The soft wool fabric is gentle on your skin, even late in a hike, while also providing reliable warmth. A bevy of pockets, at the sides, front and chest, add practicality, while standout design features like the stand collar adding wind protection and the gusseted underarms adding mobility all testify to the thought that went into this hiking jacket’s construction.
Best Running Shirt
The North Face Summit Series High Trail Short-Sleeve Shirt
If you want a high-performance running shirt that doesn’t sacrifice style, look no further than the Summit Series High Trail Short-Sleeve from The North Face. Ultra-lightweight and moisture-wicking recycled polyester provides excellent performance, undiminished by heavy sweat, while the split hem design on the side seams increases mobility. The side and underarm seams are also bonded to eliminate friction, while reflective elements on the rear ensure cyclists and motorists will see you far ahead come nighttime.
Best Long Sleeve Running Shirt
Injinji Long Sleeve Shirt
Lightweight and impossibly soft, the Long-Sleeve Shirt from Injinji deploys moisture-wicking threads to keep you dry on longer runs, while the relaxed fit and soft-stretching fabric give you excellent range of motion. In addition, an anti-chafe neckline helps to protect your skin when you layer or wear a backpack.
Best Running Jacket
Salomon Mountain Flex Hybrid Jacket
If you’re an all-weather runner, never deterred by rain or cold temperatures, you’ll want a running jacket as tough as you are. Solomon’s Mountain Flex Hybrid Jacket does a fantastic job regulating your body temperature, using their proprietary Strategic PrimaLoft synthetic insulation to keep you warm when the temperatures drop while HexaFlow ventilation panels allow for airflow in likely hot pockets, preventing you from overheating. Finally, the water-repellent exterior does a good job keeping you dry during light rain and a fantastic job shielding your core from cold winds.
Best Running Singlet
Tracksmith Van Cortlandt Singlet
In looks, performance and comfort, the Van Cortlandt Singlet from Tracksmith, the brand’s signature racing top, is an absolute standout. Made from their proprietary 2:09 Mesh fabric, it’s ultra-lightweight and breathable, with innate anti-microbial and moisture-wicking properties that will hold up through even the longest races. It’s also available in six different sizes and 12 different color and pattern options, so finding the perfect fit and style for you is a breeze.
Best Running Hat
BUFF 5 Panel Go Cap
Lightweight and so breathable you would think it was made out of clouds, the 5 Panel Go Cap from BUFF keeps your head protected from the elements (including sunlight, thanks to its built-in UPF 50 sun protection) and your hair out of your eyes, with a moisture-wicking fabric that also dries rapidly. It’s available in three solid colors, as well as a variety of fun patterns and designs, allowing you to personalize your fit for each run.
Best Running Shoes
Reebok FloatZig Double
The latest iteration in Reebok’s best-selling FloatZig lineup of running shoes, the Double offers a very strong cushioning setup, deploying Reebok’s SuperFloat+ technology, paired with a dual-density midsole, to offer a plush ride that doesn’t sacrifice stability, while a built-in forefoot rocker helps improve energy transfer on every stride. The result is a highly capable running shoe suitable for new and advanced runners looking for a combination of comfort and confidence.
Best Racing Shoes
Saucony Endorphine Elite 2
When race day finally arrives, you need to upgrade your footwear to meet the moment, and of all the race shoes we’ve tested, nothing felt as good or as fast as the Endorphone Elite 2 from Saucony. They’re ultra-light, at just 7 ounces/199 grams, but still manage to offer excellent cushioning thanks to their proprietary IncrediRUN foam, while a full-length carbon fiber plate runs the full length of the shoe, adding stability and improving responsiveness for more explosive strides. In short, when you’re aiming for a podium finish, these are the shoes you should put in the bag.
Best Trail Running Shoes
The North Face Altamesa 500
Trust the outdoor experts at The North Face to engineer a trail running shoe that inspires confidence in every stride, even when the terrain gets dicey. The Altamesa 500 pairs a nitrogen-EVA foam midsole with high rebound to an ultra-durable rubber outsole with 4 mm lugs, giving you comfort and traction even on wet, uneven ground. The Ghillie lacing system also allows you to perfect the fit, neither too tight nor too loose, while the reinforced heel counter not only adds stability but protects you from the odd rock or pebble.
Best Recovery Shoes
VKTRY Recovery Clogs
When you’ve put your body through a grueling workout, you probably make a point of focusing on recovery: you might hit the sauna or spend a few minutes stretching and foam rolling. But your feet bear the brunt of the impact from training and they also need some love, which is where the VKTRY Recovery Clogs come in. They use a dual-density EVA footbed with contoured arch support paired with a rocker sole and deep heel cup to support your stride while simultaneously shifting pressure away from your foot and into the shoe, allowing your feet some much-needed rest. Built-in ventilation holes also dissipate heat buildup and give your skin a chance to dry and breathe. The end result is like a vacation for your tired and beat-up feet.
Best Running Shorts
The North Face Summit Series Pacesetter Shorts
Made from recycled materials and designed to be both extremely lightweight and water repellent, with an effortless stretch built into the fabric, the Summit Series Pacesetter Shorts from The North Face were designed for people who love to run, all day, every day. No detail was left unthought of, from the internal liner to eliminate chaffing to the reflective elements to promote nighttime visibility or the multiple storage pockets, including mesh options for keeping your house key safely stored.
Best Compression Shorts
2XU Core Compression Shorts
2XU has built their entire brand around compression clothing, and it shows. Their Core Compression Shorts offer superior support from your waist to your knees, with a recycled nylon-lycra fabric blend (known internally as PWX, for Power, Weight and Flexibility) that conforms to your body’s movements without losing its hold. Perfect the fit with the drawstring waistband and you get the best possible compression experience that won’t in any way impede or restrict your movements during exercise.
Best Running Socks
Injinji Ultra Run Mini-Crew
In 2026, we’re urging you to embrace the toe sock! Injinji’s Ultra Run Mini-Crew Socks were engineered for runners, with a mesh top panel allowing ventilation and extra cushioning at the footbed to guard against impact. But the standout feature is definitely the individual toe boxes, which allow for natural foot splay and help your feet more evenly distribute your body’s weight. Try them for a week and tell us you don’t notice reduced foot fatigue after longer runs.
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