Whether you’re looking for something lightweight for summer or a cozy thing to be bundled up in on the coldest days of winter, we have decided to organize our posts by season. But before we jump into the different types of activewear and what they’re used for, it’s good to know what makes a piece functional as opposed to just stylish.
Different Types of Activewear
Activewear is crucial to a comfortable workout. Different fabrics and styles provide different levels of support and breathability, so it’s important to choose the right ones for your needs. Here are the different types of activewear and what they’re best suited for:
Fabrics:
There are four main types of fabric used in activewear: cotton, polyester, nylon, and Lycra. Cotton is the most absorbent fabric and therefore doesn’t wick away sweat as well as the other fabrics. Polyester is a strong and durable fabric that dries quickly. Nylon is a lightweight and stretchy fabric that’s great for form-fitting clothing. Lycra is a synthetic fabric that has high elasticity, making it ideal for compression garments.
Styles:
There are two main styles of activewear: fitted and loose. Fitted clothing hugs your body and provides support while you exercise. Loose clothing is more relaxed and allows your skin to breathe. Both styles have their advantages – it just depends on what you’re looking for in a garment.
Compression garments:
Compression garments are tight-fitting clothes that apply pressure to your muscles. They’re often worn during or after exercise to help reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation. Compression socks or tights are common compression garments worn by athletes.
Other considerations:
When choosing activewear, there are a few other things to keep in mind. Make sure the fabric is breathable to prevent you from overheating. Look for clothing with moisture-wicking properties to help keep you dry. And, choose clothing that’s comfortable and won’t restrict your movement.
Liking What You Wear
It can be difficult to find activewear that you like, let alone find activewear online that is flattering, practical, and affordable. This guide will help you make the best choices for your own unique needs so that you can feel confident and comfortable in your workout gear.
First, consider your body type. There is no “ideal” body type for working out, so don’t compare yourself to others or strive for some unrealistic standard. Instead, focus on finding clothing that makes you feel good about yourself. If you have a larger chest, look for supportive sports bras and tops with adjustable straps. If you’re self-conscious about your stomach, choose high-waisted leggings or shorts that will hold everything in place. And if you get hot easily, look for materials that are breathable and lightweight.
Once you’ve found some styles that flatter your figure, it’s time to think about functionality. What kind of workouts do you like to do? If you love running outdoors, you’ll need different gear than someone who spends most of their time in the gym lifting weights. Consider what activities you’ll be doing in your new clothes and make sure they are designed for those activities. For example, yoga pants might not be the best choice for a long run since they can slide down as you move; whereas, running shorts with built-in runners might not be as comfortable during downward-facing dogs.
Finally, don’t forget to factor the cost into your decision. Activewear can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. There are plenty of affordable options out there if you know where to look. Check out sales and clearance racks at your favorite stores or browse online retailers for deals. You can also find gently used gear at consignment shops or online marketplaces like SportsEquip, eBay and Craigslist. With a little patience and effort, you can find high-quality activewear that doesn’t break the bank.
Specific Differences in Activewear Fabrics
The activewear market is flooded with a variety of fabrics, all promising different benefits. It can be tricky to figure out which fabric is right for you and your workout routine. In this article, we’ll break down the most common activewear fabrics and their specific benefits.
Performance polyester is a popular choice for activewear because it’s lightweight and breathable. It wicks away sweat, making it ideal for high-intensity workouts or hot climates. Polyester is also quick-drying and resistant to wrinkles, making it a low-maintenance fabric option.
Nylon is another lightweight and breathable fabric, making it ideal for activewear. Like polyester, nylon is quick-drying and resistant to wrinkles. Nylon is also stretchy, allowing for a comfortable range of motion in your workout.
Spandex is a synthetic fiber that’s often used in activewear because it’s extremely stretchy. This makes spandex activewear comfortable and flattering. Spandex is often blended with other fabrics like polyester or nylon to add extra stretchiness and durability.
Cotton is a natural fiber that’s often used in casual wear or loungewear. While cotton isn’t as moisture-wicking as synthetic fibers, it’s still absorbent and can help keep you cool during your workout. Cotton is also a soft fabric, making it comfortable to wear during exercise or recovery.
Activewear made with natural fibers like cotton or wool is often more expensive than synthetic activewear. However, natural fibers can be more sustainable and environmentally friendly. If you’re looking for eco-friendly activewear, look for brands that use organic cotton or recycled polyester in their fabrics.
How To Clean Your Activewear
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think too much about how to clean your activewear. After all, they’re just clothes, right? Wrong. Activewear is made from different materials than your average t-shirt or pair of jeans, and therefore requires special care when it comes to laundering. If you want your workout gear to last, it’s important to know how to properly wash and care for it.
Here are a few tips on how to clean your activewear:
- Always check the care label before washing. This will ensure that you don’t accidentally damage your clothing.
- Use mild detergent and cold water when washing activewear. Hot water can break down the fibers in the fabric and cause shrinkage.
- Don’t use fabric softener on activewear. Fabric softeners can leave a residue that can reduce the breathability of the fabric and trap sweat and bacteria.
- Hang or lay flat to dry. Using a clothes dryer can damage the fibers in the fabric and cause shrinkage.
- If your activewear starts to smell, soak it in a solution of vinegar and water before washing. This will help to remove any bacteria that may be causing the odor.
- Never iron activewear. Ironing can damage the fibers in the fabric and cause shrinkage.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your activewear will last for many years to come.
Choosing the Right Size
When it comes to activewear, size definitely matters. You don’t want your clothes to be so loose that they get in the way of your workout or so tight that they’re uncomfortable. The best way to find the right size is to try on a few different sizes and see what feels best.
If you’re shopping online, make sure to check the size chart and compare it to your own measurements. And remember, even if the size says it should fit, it’s always best to try it on before you buy it. That way you can make sure it’s comfortable and that you’ll be able to move around freely in it.
Conclusion
With so many different types of activewear available on the market nowadays, it can be tough to choose the right ones for you. However, by following our guide and keeping your individual needs in mind, you should be able to find the perfect set of activewear that will help you reach your fitness goals. So don’t wait any longer, get out there and start shopping for your new activewear today!
