The next big thing in fitness isn’t a new class or move – it’s the way you shop. With the lines between fitness gear, street style, and even high fashion becoming blurred, it’s about time activewear carved out a little nook online for die-hard shoppers who love to sweat. Instead of shopping for one brand at one store, these web-based fitnesswear boutiques are curated to the T and make finding the stylish fit for your style of fitness as simple as a click of a button. Here’s how to get the most out of your shopping spree – and the top 5 sites that are completely changing the way we shop for fitnesswear (plus our must-haves from each, naturally):
1. Go For Variety. The beauty of today’s online fitnesswear shops are that they don’t just carry one or two brands – there’s a little something for everyone. Whether you’re into Crossfit, yoga, marathons, even swimming, the best places to get fitness gear on the web cater to the multi-faceted fitnessista. What’s more, they’ve got more brands than a department store. Looking for prints? Solids? More fashion than function or vice-versa? There’s a brand for that. If variety is the spice of life, then today’s online fitnesswear boutiques are heating up, big time. Look for a site that offers as many brands as possible so you can really find what speaks to you.
2. Hack The Fit Guides. Our not-so-secret tip for navigating the size charts of online fitnesswear stores? Since there are so many options available – and every brand fits differently – find a brand you know and love, then take a peek at their size chart. What size do you wear, and what are the measurements that correlate with that size? Use those numbers while you’re shopping for other brands to ensure a fit that fits your bod.
3. Customer Support + Policies. Make sure to read the fine print – but in general, most online fitness shops have stellar return or exchange policies if you’re not happy with your purchase. We’re suckers for good customer service, and these new sites have the fit shopping system down pat. Some even have a live-time online chat service, so you can talk to a fitnesswear pro on the spot to ensure you’re not disappointed once that box arrives on your doorstep.
5 Sites That Are Changing The Way We Shop For Fitnesswear
Carbon 38
But I need to try it on! But I need options! But what if it doesn’t hold up in my super-sweaty HIIT class?! Buying fitnesswear online was once unheard of, or for only the bravest of gym-goers. And then Carbon 38 happened. As the leader in the online activewear, Carbon 38 works with actual pros in the fitness industry to model and test drive their clothing (some of our favorite group fitness instructors are regulars on the site!). There’s no need to wonder what it might look or feel like – their fit guides take all the guesswork out, so you can focus on outfitting your inner athlete.
Must-Haves: Blue Life Fit Sneak-A-Peek Tank, Koral Activewear Jet Jumpsuit, Lucas Hugh Paragon Leggings,
Without Walls
Just as hipster-cool as its IRL storefront, Urban Outfitters’ fitnesswear shop Without Walls is one of our favorite fitnesswear destinations online, and one of our favorites to “window” shop on! The mix of colorful, boho, and out-there finds by brands such as Onzie, Asics, Vans, Seea, and their quirky in-house line are just the motivation we need to get our butts off the couch and into the gym, gleefully.
Must-Haves: Without Walls Painted ’90s Hot Yoga Bra, Seea Balboa Surf Legging, Maaji Plum Stakes Short
Stylerunner
Stylerunner was founded by sisters Julie and Sali Stevanja, when they realized that although they living in two of the most fashionable cities in the world (London and Sydney), neither of them could find a big enough selection of functional yet fashionable fitnesswear to match their love of both sweat and style. Now, as the very first international fitness boutique, they focus on the teeny details that make a difference, from the live-time online customer service to the handwritten note they include in each and every delivery.
Must-Haves: Olympia Moto Tights, The Upside Chrissy Crop, Finders Keepers x FIT Clutch
Net-A-Sporter
With high-fashion designers like Alexander Wang and Stella McCartney making headway in the athleticwear world, we knew it wouldn’t be long before there was a space online to fulfill all our high-fashion-meets hard-core-fitness needs. Being the sister site of Net-A-Porter, it’s not surprising when you realize that Net-A-Sporter is kind of like Saks Fifth Avenue on spandex – a slew of runway-ready, luxury workout clothes for the workout maven who’s just as interested in functionality as being perfectly on trend in and out of the gym.
Must-Haves: Live The Process Sports Bra, Fendi Stirrup Leggings, Adidas By Stella McCatrney Bomber Jacket
Evolve Fitwear
Yogis, rejoice! While Evolve Fitwear has a slew of running clothes and gym gear, they really kill it in the yoga department. From tops and pants to props and mats, they’ve pulled together over 40 of the top om-inducing brands at every price point for a selection that’s out of this world…or, should we say, off of this mat. Live-time customer service chat boxes make the deal even sweeter.
Must Haves: Alo Goddess Legging, Spiritual Gangster Energy Love Light Pullover, Electric & Rose Clune Jumpsuit
