The short version. How to choose women's activewear for your workouts:

• Type of workout: seamless sets with compression work best for strength training and yoga, while for cardio you need breathable, quick-drying fabrics.
• Fabric: go for synthetic microfibre (polyamide + elastane), which wicks away moisture and holds its shape (avoid pure cotton).
• Leggings: the key things to look for are a wide, high waistband that doesn't slip down and 100% opacity.
• Sports bra: choose your size based on the difference between your underbust and bust measurements, and match the level of support to the intensity of your workout.

Why does choosing the right activewear matter?

Good activewear isn't just about looks – it has to be comfortable and practical. A breathable fabric helps wick away moisture, while the right cut lets you move freely and reduces the risk of chafing.

Today, women's activewear is designed around the shape of your body and the way it moves during different activities. So when you're choosing the right set, it's worth looking beyond the design to the fabric, the cut and the overall comfort.

Which fabric should you choose?

Breathable synthetic fabrics are ideal for training: they dry quickly, move with your body and help wick away moisture.

• Polyamide (nylon): a durable, pleasantly soft fabric that wicks moisture well and holds its shape even after repeated washing.
• Elastane (spandex): gives the fabric stretch, so your clothes adapt to your body and move freely with you.
• Polyester: a lightweight, quick-drying fabric that's especially good for running, cardio and other intense workouts.

How to choose the right sports leggings

The right leggings for you depend on your body shape, the type of training you do and your personal comfort preferences.

Compression level and support

• High compression: ideal for running, HIIT and intense cardio. This kind of fabric holds your muscles firmly, reduces muscle vibration, improves circulation and stops your leggings from slipping down.
• Medium compression: a versatile choice for strength training at the gym, fitness classes and an active everyday lifestyle.
• Low compression (soft, "second-skin" feel): best for yoga, Pilates or stretching classes, where maximum freedom of movement and zero pressure are the top priority.

Rise and waistband

A high waistband doesn't just visually lengthen your legs and shape your silhouette – it also keeps your leggings in place during squats and jumps. Make sure the waistband is wide, stretchy and free of thin elastic that can dig into your skin.

Fabric opacity

A dense knit ensures the fabric stays opaque even when it's stretched to the max.

• The at-home test: do a full squat in front of a mirror in good light – the fabric around your hips and bottom shouldn't turn see-through and reveal your underwear.

Leggings length and cut

• Full length: a classic choice for cooler weather, outdoor workouts or full leg coverage.
• 7/8 length: perfect if you're under 165 cm tall (so the fabric doesn't bunch at your ankles) or for more intense indoor workouts.
• Biker shorts: the ideal option for hot summer days and workouts where maximum ventilation matters.

How to choose the right sports bra

To find your best size, you need two measurements – your underbust and your bust. It's best to take them with a soft measuring tape while standing straight in a natural posture.

Measuring yourself at home:

• Measure your underbust: place the tape snugly just under your bust and keep it parallel to the floor. This measurement helps you work out your band size.
• Measure your bust: wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust. The tape should be straight and loose enough not to press on your bust.
• Work out the difference: subtract your underbust measurement from your bust measurement. The difference helps you find your cup size. As size charts can vary from brand to brand, always check the specific manufacturer's size chart before making your final choice.

Finding your cup size from the difference

Difference (cm)	Cup size	Training and support recommendation
10 – 12 cm	A cup	Low or medium compression sports bras are enough
13 – 15 cm	B cup	Classic compression bra tops work well; suitable for running
16 – 18 cm	C cup	You need a wider underband and built-in cups; medium or high compression.
19 – 21 cm	D cup	Individual cup support and wide, padded straps are a must.
22 – 24+ cm	E / DD+ cup	Choose high-support structured bras with adjustable straps.

S/M/L/XL size conversion (for seamless bras)

Size	Underbust	Standard bra size
S	68 – 73 cm	70A, 70B, 70C, 75A
M	74 – 79 cm	75B, 75C, 80A, 80B
L	80 – 85 cm	80C, 80D, 85A, 85B
XL	86 – 92 cm	85C, 85D, 90B, 90C

Support levels by workout intensity

• Low impact: yoga, Pilates, stretching. Smaller cups (A–B) can get away with a thin-strap design, but for larger cups (C+) medium support is recommended.
• Medium impact: strength training, fitness classes, walking, cycling. The best choice for most workouts.
• High impact: running, HIIT, skipping, aerobics. Your bra needs to firmly limit movement in every direction.

The benefits of seamless activewear

Seamless activewear is perfect if you value comfort and freedom of movement while you train. With fewer seams, there's less risk of chafing and skin irritation, while the stretchy fabric hugs your body evenly. It's a comfortable option for both workouts and an active everyday life.

Matching activewear sets, such as a top with leggings or a one-piece jumpsuit, are also more and more popular. Neutral and monochrome shades like brown, beige or black make them easy to pair with your everyday clothes. Add a jumper or an oversized jacket, and your gym outfit becomes part of your everyday style.

Choosing women's activewear by type of workout

• Yoga and Pilates: soft, stretchy leggings that don't restrict your movement and fit comfortably work best. A seamless top or a light-support sports bra makes a great addition. Avoid thick seams, zips and details that can get in the way when you stretch or do floor exercises.
• Strength training: choose denser, stretchy high-waisted leggings that stay in place during squats and other exercises. It's important that the fabric is dense enough not to turn see-through when stretched. A medium-support sports bra gives you the stability you need without compromising on comfort.
• Cardio and running: for more intense workouts, breathable, quick-drying clothing is the priority. Depending on the weather, you can choose light shorts or leggings, and your sports bra should ideally offer high support. It helps reduce bust movement and keeps you more comfortable while running, jumping and doing other dynamic moves.

How to care for your activewear

• Wash at 30 °C. A gentler wash helps your fabric keep its stretch and shape, especially leggings and sports bras.
• Skip the fabric softener. It can coat synthetic fibres and reduce the fabric's ability to wick away moisture, so your activewear doesn't need it.
• Let your clothes dry naturally. After washing, it's better to dry them at room temperature rather than in a tumble dryer. High heat can affect elastic fibres and the shape of your clothes over time.
• Always check the care label. Different fabrics and manufacturers can have different care requirements.

Comfort and confidence in every move!

The right activewear helps you feel comfortable and confident throughout your whole workout. Pay attention to the fabric, the cut and the support it gives your body. If your clothes don't chafe or slip and let you move freely, you can spend less time adjusting them and more time focusing on your workout and your goals!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How do you know your women's sports leggings are the right size?

They should fit like a "second skin", with no creases forming behind the knees, and the waistband shouldn't dig in or roll down while you move.

How can you measure your bust without a measuring tape?

Use a piece of string or ribbon, measure around your bust, then lay the string along an ordinary ruler.

What's the difference between everyday clothes and specialist activewear?

Specialist activewear is made from compression and moisture-wicking fabrics that draw sweat away, dry quickly and give your muscles extra support during exercise.