Ready to get active? Here are the workout clothes our editors swear by

I have a confession: I put on my workout clothes every morning to give me motivation to get to the gym. So if I’m going to be showing them off, I want to look good. I adore this pretty yet practical running tank from Carbon38 because it’s loose and comfortable, but adds a little fashion flair with its pleated back. It's also an asset for a more fashionable kiddie drop-off if you're heading straight to that workout after school. — Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor

This is my absolute favorite tank top with a built-in bra. I wear it to yoga class, on runs and running errands. It has a flattering cut and just the right amount of compression. Oh, and it’s been in my workout clothes rotation for 10 years and still looks and feels as good as new. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor

Shorts have always been a problem for me, and during the summer, I just want to be able to go on jogs and long runs without having to constantly readjust the bunching fabric between my legs. Though I’d heard praise for the Lululemon Fast and Free shorts, the $78 price tag was hard to stomach — but I finally gave in. I like running in these shorts so much, I schedule my runs around my laundry schedule. They’re light and quick-drying, which is a huge plus for a sweaty gal like me and I like the higher waistband that also contains handy pockets for my keys and gels. The high side slit means you can’t be afraid to show quite a bit of thigh, but I’ll take the flowy fabric if it means no inner thigh bunching. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

I have a lot of complaints about many biker shorts I’ve tried, but I finally found the Goldilocks of this workout staple. I have these sustainable shorts (made with recycled plastic water bottles!) in multiple colors and they still look good as new after at least four years. They don’t ride down during my most intense dance cardio workouts and they’re thicker than most so I don’t have to worry about my underwear showing through. Plus, I don’t get the dreaded camel toe. I also appreciate the 8.5-inch length for more coverage, which is hard to find. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor

These Weekender shorts are a new addition to my workout wardrobe, but they’re quickly becoming a favorite. Both the inner underwear lining and the shorts themselves are breathable and I love the deep hand pockets for when I’m just strolling around. Their loose cut gives my thighs plenty of room to move while the adjustable waistband keeps them right where I want them. They’re excellent shorts for HIIT workouts, runs, light hikes or just lounging when I’m recovering between training sessions. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

I tried these Sweetflexx compression tights after they were plastered all over my Instagram feed (that’s what happens when you review fitness products!) and I was pleasantly surprised at how soft, comfy and yes, supportive they are — no matter what type of workout I'm doing. They hold everything in beautifully without feeling restrictive, plus, my bum looks pretty darn good as well (if I do say so myself). Also, I dig leggings with pockets so I can easily carry my phone when I go on runs or long walks. — Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor

When gym time rolls around, I hope and pray that these leggings are clean. I wear them for lifting sessions, cardio workouts, yoga and even under some of my other clothes when I need extra layers in the winter. I can’t stand leggings that slip down as I move — and these have always stayed put exactly where I want them. I also love the smoothing effect of the high-rise waist and the soft, breathable fit that always keeps me supported and comfy as I train. I also own the same style in shorts — you know, for when the leggings aren’t clean.?— Jillian Tracy, associate editor

These buttery soft leggings not only feel luxe, but they’re truly one of the only pairs of leggings that actually stay put during every downward dog or through a series of burpees and jumping jacks. I own them in two colors and keep eyeing the new ones launching. You can also shop this fabric in other styles like shorts, bras and a one-piece. I love that they come in three lengths so you can get a more custom fit, they’re moisture-wicking and have four-way stretch. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor

In the winter, these are the leggings I reach for. They’re specially designed for cold-weather workouts, so they have a brushed, almost fleece-like lining. I wore these multiple times a week while training for a half-marathon, and they always kept me warmer than other leggings. I love their adjustable waistband, so I can make sure the leggings stay up during high-intensity workouts, and the spacious zippered pockets keep my phone, keys, gels and more secure (and easily accessible). I have several pairs of these, and one pair is going on 3+ years of use. —?Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor

I’ll be the first to admit — I really don’t enjoy working out. Yet, when my motivation is low, I can always count on a fun outfit to get me to the gym. To wit: Someone needs to study the magical, motivational powers of this Yitty bra. We recently tested the best sports bras and this stellar pick completely won me over. It’s cute, supportive (even during runs) and features a nifty crossover design that adds an extra cooling effect. I even find myself reaching for this sports bra when I’m not working out — that’s how comfy it is. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer

I’m currently obsessed with hot yoga, which is weird for someone who hates high temps. I have my ways to avoid overheating though — including wearing as little fabric as I can get away with. My favorite hot yoga clothes are a bra and a pair of biker shorts. I’m also pretty cheap so I find whatever’s highly rated yet affordable on Amazon. I’ve just recently discovered the CRZ Yoga brand, and I have to say, its Butterluxe line is aptly named. Both the bra and the shorts are soft and well-crafted, and they’re ultra stretchy too, making them great for all body types. — Michelle Rae Uy, testing writer

The companion to my beloved bike shorts, I own this supportive bra in three colors. I love them because they offer the perfect amount of compression and keep everything in place whether I’m jumping around, running or boxing. I’ve also worn the bra as a crop top at a concert, which is great in the heat since it’s made with sweat-wicking material. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor

I own this bra in several different colors because it gets the job done. I tend to not wear a shirt over this bra at the gym, and this workout essential lets me lift, run and move without fuss. It’s compressive enough to keep all the important bits secure while also not squeezing my ribs too tight. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

I’ve tried so many sports bras, but my favorite by far is the Athleta Ultimate Bra. I wear it for everything from strength training to dance cardio classes —?I even wore it when I ran my first half marathon last year, as it was the only sports bra I tried that didn’t chafe near the band. I love it so much that I purchased another to add to my rotation. It comes in separate sizes for A-C and D-DD+ cup sizes, which is really helpful for those with larger chests and smaller band sizes. —?Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor

This bra is extremely comfortable and provides medium compression without feeling like you’re suffocating. I love that it’s made in Los Angeles because I make a point of purchasing sustainable and USA-made products when I can (plus, I find nationally-crafted products like this last longer and fit better). Bette yet: It also can be worn as a crop top. I love throwing on the brand’s super-soft racerback tank over the bra for extra coverage. — Lindsey Smith, associate editor

This bright red set brings a little bit of fun to even the most unenjoyable workouts (I’m looking at you, HIIT). I’ve worn each piece practically all summer and both the bra and the leggings have remained in near perfect condition, and have yet to pill or tear. The moisture-wicking fabric keeps me feeling cool, while the double bra and tight-knit compression design provide twice the amount of support and prevent the waistband from moving. Lucky for me, the brand just dropped a new color, which is an obvious sign to buy another set. — Stephanie Griffin, Director of Social

This Athleta bra is buttery-soft and supportive, and when it comes to sports bras, there isn’t much more I can ask for. Well, maybe that they’re cute, which this one definitely is. It’s not flashy, but it has easily handled every workout I've thrown its way. And though I appreciate the three-strand design on one of the straps, what really thrills me is that I'm not constantly readjusting them throughout my workout. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

I’ve basically lived in this fashion-forward tennis dress all summer — and most of the time, I wasn’t even working out. It’s just that good. Like its name implies, it’s super soft to the touch, lightweight and breathable. The dress also features adjustable straps and built-in shorts, ensuring the utmost coverage and function. — Stephanie Griffin, Director of Social

For the past four years, this trusty skort has been with me during summer workouts and is a staple on most of my vacations. If shorts aren’t your thing, this skort is for you. The built-in biker shorts feature a rubber grip-like material to keep them from riding up and the skirt itself has zippered pockets if you want to avoid carrying a bag. I love how versatile this skort is and that it can be dressed up or down, especially in the black version. — Elena Matarazzo, associate deals editor

Popflex is my favorite activewear brand. Out of the pieces I own, this adorable and feminine skort is my favorite. The one gripe I have with most skorts is the shorts are too short and I end up getting chub rub. But this one is the perfect length, and it stays put. Also, it’s just plain fun to twirl around in. (And it’s Taylor Swift-approved!) — Lindsey Smith, associate editor

I’m not a runner, but I still absolutely love Feetures socks, which are made specifically with runners in mind. They have options that are great for any kind of activity, and all their socks boast performance-enhancing features like compression in the arch, sweat-wicking material and a variety of cushioning options. Plus, they all come with a lifetime guarantee. I truly notice a difference in how my always-achy feet feel when I wear these socks to workout. — Chelsea Stone, editorial director

Unless I want to constantly be wiping sweat from my face, I won’t workout without a hat. It keeps my hair up and out of the way, plus they give my face some extra sun protection during outdoor workouts. I also own the older version of this Adidas Superlite Hat, but both have a lightweight design that lets my head breathe more than any regular baseball cap I’ve ever tried.?— Jillian Tracy, associate editor