By Guest writer Sara Laverty sarasadventures.com
What’s the most important thing you look for when you shop for workout clothes or active wear? Is it the fabric, the style, the color or the brand? Do you always purchase the same brands or purchase products that come recommended by friends or influencers?
The U.S. athletic apparel market is the largest in the world, which means we have A LOT of options… sometimes it almost feels like too many!
Here’s my take on picking the right workout clothes for you: buy pieces that make you feel excited about getting a sweat session in. Purchase items that make you look good before, during, and after you work out. I love the Kamena Outdoor Women’s seamless leggings because they are a snug fit but they don’t give you that muffin top look. The women’s static crop top matches the leggings and also offers great support (and is seamless too)! I like to workout hard, so these are important things I look for. When I go for a run, I like shorter shorts and tank tops.
Fun Fact: According to the Cotton Council International (CCI) and Cotton Incorporated 2016 Activewear Study, about 9 in 10 consumers say they wear activewear for purposes other than exercise. Indeed, the difference between traditional gym clothes and casual wear is becoming less noticeable, especially given the context of the pandemic. I believe the new term is “Athleisure,” which includes yoga pants, jogger pants, tank tops, sports bras and, of course, hoodies. I’m a sucker for some comfy jogger pants and comfy hoodies!
Let’s also talk hats. It’s something I’ve grown to love (I have a weird head) but not all hats make it look nice. I need a specific style of baseball cap for example for just hanging on the beach: it has to be solid flatbill shaped. Whereas for running, I like it to be made out of lightweight and breathable material and be adjustable, such as a Flexfit-style cap.
Here are some trends to look out for in 2021, while shopping for your Activewear or your Athleisure :
- Pastel pieces
- Go Seamless
- Flares
- Long sleeves
- Inclusive
- Shades of blue
- Neon colors
- Earth tones
(psst- Kamena Outdoor has most of these and their price point is fabulous!)
There are so many brands out there and we are constantly being bombarded by offers of new leggings with the newest moisture-wicking technology, extra-light tank tops and sports bra with USB charging ports… *joke*, that doesn’t exist yet but it could be useful for those long runs in the woods or those long volleyball tournaments on the beach! Check out the website for the full line!
