Guys, let’s be honest: stiff button-downs and non-stretchy pants are no one’s friend. Who wants to spend the day in fear that with one wrong move your pants are going to split right down the middle? It should go without saying that your comfy self is your best self. But you know, comfy in the sense that you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing, not so much in the “I haven’t changed out these sweatpants in five days” kind of way. If you’re looking to add a few pieces to your wardrobe that can be worn from the gym and beyond, check out these six athleisure brands.
1. Outdoor Voices: For all you ultra-trendy dudes, here’s an option that you can totally wear to the gym but doesn’t come off as overly sporty. Tyler Haney, a graduate of Parsons and the designer behind the line, says she always been attracted to the concept of casual activity. She grew up in Colorado, where being active wasn’t something you did for an hour a day, but rather way a way of life. That mindset definitely shines through in Haney’s designs. If you’re looking for pieces that are perfect for a lounge-around Sunday, this is your go-to spot.
2. Lululemon: We’ll just go ahead and answer your first question right away: No, Lululemon is not just a place where ladies go for fancy yoga pants. The brand actually has tons of men’s clothing that’s perfect for the gym and then some. For a great crossover, try the Pace Breaker Shorts ($64), which come with a soft, comfortable COOLMAX liner that’s built to be breathable and dry quickly. If you’re more interested in a piece that feels as comfortable as activewear but can be worn out to dinner, try the Closer Long Sleeve Top ($108), which has all the formality of a normal button-down but is made with swift fabric that’s lightweight and wicks away sweat.
3. Without Walls: Considering this is Urban Outfitter’s athletic line, you can pretty much assume it’s going to be trendy as ever. Here you’ll find color blocked jackets, sweatpants that don’t make you look like you just finished up a two-day video game spree and printed training shorts than can easily be worn around town.
4. Uniqlo: While this Japanese fast-fashion giant isn’t specifically an athletic company, functionality is a core value to the brand’s business. Uniqlo’s Global Chief Creative Officer LeAnn Nealz tells Style.com, “With HeatTech, with AIRism, with Ultra Light Down, what we do each season is try to give more functionality to those core pieces. We’re not a performance company, but we are a company that supports all aspects of your life, and that is certainly one of them.” Invest in one of their Supima Cotton Tops ($13), which is made with soft Supima cotton that’s built to hold its shape through the wash.
5. Cotton On: When a brand has the word “cotton” in the title, you know it’s going to be a keeper. For a pant that’s not necessarily fit for the gym but will make your day super comfy, try the Drake Pant ($45), which looks totally fashionable but is actually made from 98% cotton.
6. American Giant: If you’re looking for something with a heavy sport focus, this brand might be your go-to. Our must-have picks are the Baseball Jacket ($89) that’s actually made from fleece and The Weekend Short ($44) that looks like a classed-up version of simple sweat shorts.
Any great athleisure brands we missed? Share your favorite in the comments below.
