As January approaches and fitness resolutions take shape, having the right activewear can make all the difference. The Mirror's fashion team, comprising Lucy Addicott, Lauren Codling, Jessica Brunt, and Eve Rowlands, has rigorously tested a wide range of workout gear to compile their ultimate edit. From high-street giants to viral brands, they share the pieces they genuinely swear by for everything from yoga to high-intensity training.
Investment Pieces Worth the Splurge
When it comes to premium activewear, certain items justify their higher price tag through superior quality and longevity. Jessica Brunt champions the Lululemon Align Super High-Rise Pant, praising its buttery-soft, second-skin feel that remains supportive. Available from £34, these leggings are designed for low-impact workouts like yoga but are durable enough for running. She notes minor bobbling after extensive wear but confirms their seams have held strong for years.
For high-impact support, especially for fuller busts, Jess recommends the Nike Swoosh High Support Sports Bra at £49.99. She advises sizing up and highlights its excellent sweat-wicking properties and durability, making for a minimal cost-per-wear over time.
Eve Rowlands is a devoted fan of TALA's Sculpt Seamless range. The Sculpt Seamless Bandeau Sports Bra (£42) offers reliable light-to-medium support with a flattering square neckline, while the matching Wrap Waist Scrunch Leggings provide a cinched-in waist and are confirmed to be 100% squat-proof.
High-Performance Finds on a Budget
Excellent workout gear doesn't always require a hefty investment. The team has uncovered several affordable gems that deliver on performance. Jess highly rates Amazon's Active FormFlex Buttery Soft High Waist Yoga Leggings, which start from just £14.16. She finds them comparable to more expensive pairs in terms of flexibility and longevity, though suggests sizing down for a tighter leg fit.
Eve loves the H&M Active set, featuring cycling shorts at £19.99 and a sports bra for £22.99 in a vibrant pistachio green. The shorts have a secure waistband and a discreet pocket, while the longer-line bra doubles as a crop top. She recommends pairing them with nude underwear as the lighter fabric isn't fully opaque.
Lauren Codling's go-to for daily walks are the Lovall Everyday High Waisted Leggings (£28). She praises their flattering, supportive fit and thick, opaque fabric, though notes the brushed cotton material attracts lint.
Stylish Staples for Motivation and Comfort
The right outfit can be a powerful motivator. Lucy Addicott invests in the Tala DayFlex Wrap High Waisted Cycling Shorts (£42), appreciating their soft feel, flattering crossover waist, and secure fit that doesn't ride up during runs.
For a sports bra that combines support with style, Lucy recommends the Gymshark Ruched Sports Bra (£28). With an adjustable crossover back and flattering ruching, it offers medium support ideal for running, and the padding stays in place after washing.
Jess also favours the Adanola Sport Active Lifestyle T-shirt (£38) for its heavyweight, structured fit, perfect for walks or errands post-gym, though she notes it's not ideal for high-sweat activities.
Eve completes her kit with pieces from Fabletics, including the Define PowerHold High Waisted Leggings (£69) in Merlot, which are thick, squat-proof, and breathable, and the Oasis Twist Medium Impact Sports Bra (£59), celebrated for its soft fabric and unique twist detail.
The consensus from the fashion team is clear: whether you're investing in a lifelong staple from Lululemon or snapping up a bargain pair from Amazon, the right workout clothes are a key component in building a consistent and enjoyable fitness routine for the new year.
