The London Marathon is on Sunday 21 April and if you're racing, and you want to be recognised on the TV, well, you'll need to wear something that will stand out from the crowd. We've searched high and low for the best activewear collections that will make anyone smile by just looking at them.
And for those of you who aren't running the marathon, but you're working on your fitness goals or you're attempting the viral 50 Days Strong social media challenge, I'm here to help you find some new activewear that will actually make you WANT to work out. Step away from the black, say goodbye to the grey. Let's bring some colour into our lives.
I'm a strong believer that colour will boost your mood, and it's easy to buy the black sports leggings with the matching black tank top and throw on a grey hoodie over the top, but life's for living - embrace colour.
© Leanne BayleyIf you're looking for new sportswear for the gym or for your home workouts, or just for being a cool girl who likes functional streetwear sans exercise, we've searched for the top sportswear brands for activewear that will really help smash your goals. We're talking prints (hello leopard print!), neon, lots of colours and jazzy designs for your sportswear wardrobe. Don't be boring in 2024, take a walk on the wild side.
How we chose the best fun activewear brands
- Quality materials: Colour aside, we have looked at the brands that take their sportswear seriously. You want your activewear to look good but you want it to last.
- Mix and match options: You might want to create a capsule activewear wardrobe.
- Cool details: We wanted to feature brands that pay attention to the small details - cool pockets on leggings for your mobile phone or secret compartments for your keys. These things make a huge difference.
- Colour or prints: Confidence is key! We looked to the brands that balance functionality with style.
Best activewear brands for women in 2024
1/12
Marks & Spencer GoodMove
M&S GoodMove Scoop Neck Relaxed Vest Top
Editor's Note
I love Marks & Spencer's GoodMove Collection. I wish they had more matching sets available in store, though a lot of the pieces you can mix and match with. I chose this pale green scoop neck relaxed vest top because it instantly sparked joy and made me think of the sunshine. Team with the printed leggings the model is wearing, I love that there is a secure pocket on the side which means you can keep your phone with you.
Why we love M&S GoodMove
- Stylish
- Affordable
- Well made
- Excellent for the gym
- Matching items available
M&S hero styles have been refreshed for spring 2024 with a bold new aesthetic, featuring graphic prints and complemented by vibrant bright accents. Within the popular GoodMove collection, you can now get reflective gym leggings made with recycled polyester, and a matching Flexifit sports bra with cross-back straps.
2/12
Lululemon Activewear
Lululemon Flow Y Bra
Editor's Note
My new obsession with Lululemon is next level - the Aligne leggings (yes, the one Meghan Markle loves) are my number one buy. You just can't beat them! But if you're looking for a bit of fun for your workout wardrobe, the Glaze Pink Flow Y Bra is a fabulous colour.
Why we love Lululemon
- Stylish
- Comfortable
- Well made
- Responsibly sourced.
Lululemon is a popular choice with women all over the world. Whether you're after a pair of leggings or a sports bra, the popular Wunderpuff puffer coat or sports shoes.
3/12
Sweaty Betty
Sweaty Betty Power Contour Plunge Bra
Editor's Note
I would say Sweaty Betty is a trusted fitness brand - I'm a big fan. Yes, it's considered to be quite expensive but if you're really into your activewear, it's a great brand to shop with and I think the staff are next level in store. I really love this Power Contour Plunge Bra. Who says you can't exercise in leopard print?
Why we love Sweaty Betty
- Well made
- Stylish
- Use of Power Fabrics
- Brilliant staff
- Matching items available
You can always count on Sweaty Betty for some fun activewear - no matter what exercise you favour the most. From yoga to pilates, running or even skiing. If you weren't already sold on the soft, sculpting fabric and vibrant colour, the leggings have a medium rise with a smooth ‘stay-put’ waistband.
4/12
Red Run Activewear
Red Run 'Neon Safari' Windbreaker
Editor's Note
Red Run is more than just a go-to for a gym outfit, this is the active streetwear you need in your wardrobe. You know the score - the kind of outfit that you can wear daily and feel stylish and comfortable in, and if you suddenly want to do a quick pilates class, you're already kitted out. The new Neon Safari collection is perfect for anyone who wants to make an entrance as soon as they walk in the gym or on the track. This Neon Safari Windbreaker is perfect for the current weather we're having.
Why we love Red Run
- Stylish
- Comfortable
- Well made
- Flattering
- Affordable
- Matching items available
UK based brand Red Run design their sportswear to be so stylish and flattering you could wear it out to brunch after your workout. The collection is designed to show power and strength, be comfortable and fit well, to enhance those body parts you’ve worked hard on or help pull you in on those days that you need that extra bit of confidence. The luxurious, thick, breathable fabrics ensure your body stays cool whilst you train retaining your energy.
5/12
Fabletics
Fabletics Anywhere Built In Bra Tank Top
The Fabletics Anywhere Built In Bra Tank Top is a must have if you love colour and if you're a follower of Khloe Kardashian. The famous gym bunny has been a brand ambassador for a while now and we love her electric lime edit - so fresh!
Why we love Fabletics
- Stylish
- Comfortable
- Celebrity collections
- Flattering
- Affordable
- Matching items available
The Fabletics membership programme is a great one to sign up for if you're always on the hunt for new activewear. You've got plenty to choose from, great savings to be had, and customised suggestions for you.
6/12
Nike Women Activewear
Nike Women's Graphic Running Tank Top
Editor's Note
Nike is a firm favourite when I'm shopping for new activewear. The website is easy to use and there are plenty of options and new products drop daily. I'm drawn to this lilac tank top for my summer fitness goals.
Why we love Nike
- Comfortable
- Well made
- Stylish
- Brand power
There's no denying that Nike is the power player for fun activewear. If you're looking for bright colours, Nike's definitely up there. Within the womenswear collections this year, we're seeing even more brights - and we're obsessed with the lilac pieces within the range.
7/12
Adidas Activewear
Adidas Training Bra
Editor's Note
Adidas stocks lots of mix and match items on the website, and I love that. There are also lots of trendy colours to choose from and cool accessories to match with. I am obsessed with this 'road to records' crop top. It makes me want to start running.
Why we love Adidas
- Style
- Comfort
- Well made
- Brand power
- Matching pieces
Adidas has everything you need for quality activewear. Whether you're after performance technology for high energy workouts, or whether you're after comfort for those relaxed recovery days.
8/12
Ayda Activewear
Ayda Mr Showbiz Crop Top
Editor's Pick
The cut of the 'Malibu Blue' coloured Mr. Showbiz top is designed for warmer days, keeping your girls in tight, whatever the activity. There's a real LA vibe to the brand which is probably why I love it so much.
Why we love Ayda Activewear
- Stylish
- Comfortable
- Well made
- Flattering
- Affordable
- Matching items available
Ayda Williams (the wife of Robbie Williams for those of you who don't know) is the brains behind Ayda and if you follow her on Instagram you'll know that fitness is her passion. Her brand is described as "luxury activewear" and caters for those who like looking cool while working out.
9/12
NEXT Active
Next Active Rain Jacket
Editor's Note
Don't let the rain dampen your mood. This bright blue rain jacket will look great worn with your favourite gear.
Why we love Next Active
- Affordable
- Well made
- Stylish
- Speedy delivery
Next has always been a high street power player when it comes to activewear. Designed for all types of fitness, the Denise Lewis collection features extra stretch and don't worry about breaking a sweat – the moisture-wicking fabric in a lot of their products will keep you cool and comfortable.
10/12
Gymshark Activewear
Gymshark Adapt Safari Sports Bra
Editor's Note
How much am I loving this this 'Shelly Pink' and 'Fly Coral' seamless sports bra?! There are matching shorts available but if you're too afraid to step outside of your comfort zone, try layering the bra with your favourite black or white tank top.
Why we love Gymshark
- Well made
- Stylish
- Logo is instantly recognisable
- Matching items available
Gymshark really does cater to gym bunnies and the pieces are targeted towards young women who want to look cool in the gym but wear clothes made for training.
11/12
Peloton Apparel Activewear
Peloton Cadent Strappy Elevate Thin Band Bra
Editor's Note
I love my Peloton so of course I'm a little bit obsessed with the Peloton Apparel line. I love how the instructors model the collection and although the collections are small, they're mighty. Choose from cool leggings, bra tops, tees, tank top and hoodies. You can also buy accessories online as well. This bright coloured cadent cap sleeve tee gets my vote - and it's on sale.
Why we love Peloton Apparel
- Style
- Comfort
- Brand power
- Inclusive options
When Peloton launched an apparel line, you just knew we were in for a great ride - no pun intended. The collection has everything you need for quality activewear. Whether you're after performance technology for high energy Peloton bike rides, or whether you're after comfort for those relaxed recovery rides.
12/12
ASOS Activewear
Nike Running React Pegasus Trail 4 Trainers
Editor's Note
Whether you’re gaining, training or exploring the great outdoors, ASOS is a quick and easy way to shop a lot of different sportswear brands. I tend to find myself on the sports trainers page, and this time I've gravitated towards these Nike Running React Pegasus Trail 4 sneaks with hot pink laces.
Why we love ASOS Activewear
- Stylish
- Affordable
- Speedy delivery
- Mix and match options
ASOS is no doubt your home for activewear as it stocks up so many sportswear brands; from Nike to Adidas, Reebok and more. It even has its own brand called ASOS 4505 and it has excellent options for your performance wardrobe. Scroll leggings, shorts and joggers in a range of fits and performance fabrics to help you focus on leg day – or shop T-shirts, vests and sports bras to give your upper body a boost. Sporting a rest day? Check out comfy-cool sweatshirts and hoodies for streetwear-inspired activewear.
Scroll down for top tips on what to look for when shopping for activewear. We reached out to the ultimate expert - Megan Kimmance, Red Run Co-Founder & Creative Director, who gave us her top tips.
Meet the expert: Megan Kimmace
Megan Kimmance is the founder of Red Run. She's a UCLAN fashion design graduate & Graduate Fashion Week finalist. After years of working in fashion design, commercial & wholesale distribution roles for brands such as Vivienne Westwood and KTZ, she set out to fill the gap in the emerging activewear market to blend performance wear with trend-led fashion.
