The Ultimate Guide to Gym Wear for Weightlifting, Yoga, and CrossFit

You have your playlist at the ready. Your water bottle is filled. You are pumped to smash your workout. But then you look down at the clothes you’re wearing.
Is it truly the right choice for what you are about to do?
So, what is the best gym wear for weightlifting, yoga and CrossFit? Let’s dive straight into it.

For weightlifting, turn to Hylete Gear -their Minimalist Hy-Blend Crew Tee* and Vertex II Short are next-level. Need shoes? Grab the Nike Metcon 9. It’s durable, adaptable, and made to last.

For the yogis out there, consider the Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Tight. They stay put, feel incredible, and look good, too. If you want something softer, try the Beyond Yoga Spacedye Leggings. They’re stretchy, comfortable and long-lasting.

And CrossFit is the most versatile so you’ll use it for that - Reebok Nano X5 or NOBULL Outwork Shoe. Both are built to tackle everything from heavy lifts to sprints without missing a beat.

Now that we got the fundamentals out of the way, let’s take everything apart in detail.

Top Picks for Weightlifting

Weightlifting requires strength, skill, and high levels of power. Your clothes need to be as intense as that. Here’s what you need to know.

Hylete Gear

Hylete has built a solid reputation with lifters. Their Minimalist Hy-Blend Crew Tee is so lightweight, breathable, and ridiculously comfortable. The Vertex II Short pairs perfectly with it, balancing stretch with support. These items were engineered to move with you, whether you’re dead lifting or bench pressing.

Shoes With Support for Heavy Lifts

Stability reigns supreme with weightlifting shoes. Enter the Nike Metcon 9. This shoe is a beast. Its flat, wide sole offers a strong platform for heavy lifts. Plus it’s versatile enough for accessory work like box jumps or sled pushes. If you’re serious about lifting, these kicks are money well spent.

What to Look for in Weightlifting Gear

Breathability: You’ll sweat. A lot. Opt for fabrics that will allow air to circulate.

Support: Seek out compression shorts or leggings. These will assist in stabilizing your muscles.

Durability: Weightlifting is rough on equipment. Choose materials that won’t tear or fray easily.

Top Picks for Yoga Apparel

Yoga is about connection - mind, body and breath. Your clothes should elevate that experience, not detract from it.” Here’s how to choose the right equipment for your practice.

Wunder Train High-Rise Tight

These pants are a yogi’s dream. The Wunder Train High-Rise Tight fits your body like a glove (without being constricting, of course). They’re made to hold their position, even when you’re doing inversions or deep stretches. Bonus points if it’s made of moisture-wicking fabric that keeps you dry through hot-yoga classes.

Beyond Yoga Spacedye Leggings

Want something cozier? Shop Beyond Yoga Spacedye Leggings. These are buttery soft, stretchy babies that are great for long flows or meditating. They’re superdurable, despite their plush feel. Translation: they’ll last wash after wash.

What to Look For in Yoga Gear

Stretch: You do a lot of moving in yoga. Your clothing should move with you.

Fit: If it’s been too tight, you’ll feel restrained. Too baggy, and they will ride up. Aim for snug but comfortable.

Related: Downward dog shouldn’t be an invitation to flash everyone. Find styles that won’t budge.

Pro tip: Avoid cotton if you practice hot yoga. It also soaks up sweat and becomes heavy quickly. Instead, use synthetic blends.

Top Picks for CrossFit

CrossFit is intense. One second you’re pumping iron, the next you’re running or doing burpees. You need gear that can handle the chaos. Here’s what works best.

Reebok Nano X5

The best friend of a CrossFitter: the Reebok Nano X5. Its rugged construction allows for heavy lifts, and its bouncy cushioning makes running and agility work feel seamless. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to survive rope climbs and box jumps.

NOBULL Outwork Shoe

Looking for another option? Here are the NOBULL Outwork Shoe. It is rugged, comfortable and made for high-intensity workouts. The upper breathes and keeps your feet cooler, and the sole has grip for lateral movements.

What to Consider When Shopping for CrossFit Gear

Versatility. You need your clothes and shoes to do it all - lifting, running, jumping, pick something.

Durability: CrossFit can be brutal on gear. Look for reinforced stitching and durable materials.

Breathability: You’ll be laboring hard. The gear you select allows heat to escape.

Pro tip: Layer wisely. For most WODs, IMO you can’t beat a lightweight tank and rugged shorts.

How to Pick the Right Gym Wear

It doesn’t have to be complicated - gym wear. Use this tricks to identify pieces that suit you.
If it doesn’t feel good, then don’t buy it. Period. In-store test items whenever able. Shaq squat, lunge, jump - keep them moving with you.

Consider Sweat-Wicking Materials

Sweat happens. Moisture-wicking fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and spandex are better for keeping you dry and focused because they pull moisture away from your skin.

Don’t Skimp on Flexibility

Do you need to make sure no one stands behind you when you bend down? Good. Flexible fabrics that allow for full range of motion are essential for any workout.

Consider Durability

Cheap gear breaks down easily. Wear well in the wash and will withstand countless workouts, invest in quality.

Choose the Right Gear for Your Activity

Your workout calls for different equipment. Adapt your selections to suit the needs of your schedule. Yoga, for instance, requires stretchy leggings, while weightlifting is best done in supportive shorts.

Final Thoughts

The right gear can elevate your confidence, improve your game and make your workouts feel a bit more fun.
Doesn’t matter if you’re smashing PRs in the weight room, centering yourself on the mat, or putting in a grueling hour of CrossFit, make sure to prioritize gear that works for you. Brands such as Hylete, Lululemon, Reebok, and NOBULL have all proven themselves time after time. If you start there, you won’t go wrong.