Real men need comfortable and functional workout clothes that look good on the go and at the gym. Your choice of fitness garbs should answer to both fashion and function. We happen to have a list of the best men’s fitness apparel ready just for you below!
Men’s Fitness Apparel | The Best Workout Clothes for Real Men
1. Gym Shoes
Whatever training routines you have on your fitness regimen—cardio, sports, or weightlifting—choosing the right shoes to wear is essential. For one, working out with the right pair of shoes gives the most comfort. Also, using the appropriate workout footwear can prevent a number of injuries from happening. Injuries, aside from being painful and costly, can also derail your fitness goals.
Regardless of brand, the best gym shoes are those that give you the support you need when you hit the treadmill or lift weights. Here are some tips on what shoes to wear for a specific gym training:
- Weightlifting– get gym shoes that provide firm and flat grip on the ground
- Cardio/ Strength Training– invest in sneakers that have a good grip on the floor and provide ample cushion
2. Athletic Tank Tops
The right tank top can spell the difference between a good, satisfying workout session and a sticky, gross, bad one. You want to stay comfortable and cool when going about your fitness routine. Whether you’re running, weightlifting, or cross training, choose a lightweight athletic tank top made from synthetic fiber will allow your skin to breathe by wicking your sweat away from the body. This kind of tank top will allow you to move freely and perform your workout routine without the hassle.
3. Gym Shorts
What is the right pair of gym shorts for you? Gym shorts that cling tightly to your skin or hang loosely are big no-nos. Here are some tips you need to remember when buying your workout shorts:
- Don’t buy shorts made of cotton. Go for gym shorts made of fabrics with wicking properties.
- Stay away from shorts with rough fabrics. They’ll only irritate or chafe your skin.
- Wear gym shorts according to the type of training you do.
4. Athletic Socks
It doesn’t stop with having the proper workout shoes. Your feet need support beyond the shoe. Too much pressure from weight lifting, jumping, running, and other activities put extra stress on the feet. A good pair of athletic socks can act as a cushion and repel some of this extra force. Aside from this, athletic socks can also protect your feet from blisters and irritation.
You’ll want to go with sock fibers with good wicking gradients to keep your feet dry. Most athletes prefer synthetic or acrylic socks as they’re durable and lightweight.
5. Compression Gear
If you want to take your dedication up another notch, why not grab yourself some compression shorts or tights? You’ll often see athletes wearing compression shorts, but why exactly? Studies show these tight-fitting garments hold muscles firmly and improve blood circulation.
How tight is ideal? The use of compression gear improves blood flow, which in effect increases function and recovery. With that in mind, there has to be sufficient pressure working against your limbs. In other words, choosing the smallest compression gear you can comfortably fit in will provide the most benefit.
6. Athletic Underwear
Extensive exercises can cause irritation, itching, and chafing, especially when running. Have you tried having a long run in cotton underwear? Just thinking about it makes me feel really uncomfortable. The cotton underwear and loose shorts combo rubs and glides up your legs, then bam! Chafe-town! While athletic underwear gives you comfort and helps hold everything in its place, you need to look for a pair that will complement your compression shorts well.
7. Gym Jacket
Gym jackets are one of the most versatile gym apparel there is. You can wear them post-workout to help keep your muscles warm and avoid injury. If you run at night, your safety must be of utmost importance, there are reflective designs you can choose from. They can also be a good addition to your fashion arsenal. Here are a few guidelines on choosing the best gym jackets:
- Make sure you buy a gym jacket made of premium fabrics that help regulate your body temperature.
- Choose “layerable” gym jackets to be able to mix and match them to your wardrobe.
- It’s better to pick a slightly looser size.
Check out these other men’s fitness apparel you want to add in your closet courtesy of Teachingmensfashion:
Now you know which men’s fitness apparels can greatly boost your performance, it’s time for you to put in the work. You must also keep in mind that all of these will be put to waste if you don’t have the right goals and mindset. Start wearing one of these, and it shall work wonders for you!
Do you know of other men’s fitness apparel that can greatly improve one’s productivity in the gym? Share it in the comments section below!
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