27 Best Workout Clothes for Women Over 50
When it comes to exercise, having the right clothes on hand is key to helping you stay motivated. But when you've reached a certain level of maturity, the skin-tight, revealing workout wear you might have gone for in the past loses its appeal. That's why filling your closet with the best workout clothes for women over 50 is a must, whether you're just beginning your fitness journey or regularly working up a sweat.
Much like the right exercise equipment, the best workout clothes for women over 50 are essential to achieving an effective workout. Plus, they serve as a reminder to get you moving (while keeping you cool and comfy!). Read more for answers to all your burning workout-wear questions, or keep scrolling to start shopping for the best workout clothes for women over 50 now!
Best Workout Clothes for Women Over 50 Holiday Sales:
What Is The Best Workout Clothes for Women Over 50:
Best sport crop top for women over 50 : Athleta Conscious Crop A-C
Best Workout Jacket for women over 50 : Chico's Embossed Camo Anorak Jacket
Best affordable workout leggings for women over 50 : Active Research Workout Leggings
Best pullover sweatshirt for women over 50 : Sportswear Phoenix Fleece Pullover Hoodie
Best workout tank for women over 50 : Amazon Essentials Women's Studio Relaxed-Fit Racerback Tank
Best workout shorts for women over 50 : Lands' End Active Relaxed Shorts
Best Fleece sweatpants for women over 50 : Under Armour Women's Rival Fleece Joggers
Best workout dress for women over 50 : Nike Bliss Luxe Training Dress
Best workout sun protectant pants : Chico's UPF Ruched Leg Crops
Best fleece vest for women over 50 : L.L. Bean Women's Fleece-Lined Primaloft Vest
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What are the best clothes to work out in?
No matter what type of exercise you're doing, you'll want a base layer that's supportive, breathable, and comfortable. Materials that won't stick to sweaty skin, prevent chafing, and are easy to wash work best. Look for moisture-wicking fabrics like marino wool, nylon, spandex, bamboo, and high-tech options that incorporate materials like polypropylene and polyester.
Moisture-wicking clothing pulls sweat away from your skin, helping to keep you cool throughout your workout. Even better, many of the best workout clothes for women over 50 are also made with antimicrobial technology, such as silver nanoparticles, that inhibit the growth of bacteria.
From basics like tanks, tees, and leggings, to high-performance jackets and comfortable running shoes, we've rounded up the best workout clothes for women over 50 that will make you feel great about exercising. Keep scrolling to see our picks for the best workout clothes for women over 50!
What should an older woman wear to the gym?
Your age shouldn't dictate what you choose to wear when you work out. Whatever is comfortable and makes you feel great is the best thing to wear. But for every woman, there are a few essentials: a great sports bra, moisture-wicking underwear to keep you dry "down there," and a pair of sturdy and supporting athletic shoes. We're also fans of workout leggings with pockets, so you can keep your phone and keys handy when you don't want to schlep a bag with you to work out!
What are the most flattering workout pants?
When looking for a great pair of exercise pants, think about what you'll be doing in them. The most important thing is that your workout pants are functional and comfortable. That said, feeling like you look your best is important, too. Wearing flattering clothing gives you a boost, which might make you more likely to head to the gym!
Workout pants for yoga are going to be different than running leggings, and each has features to make them ideal for that specific activity.
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Best Workout Clothes for Women Over 50
Athleta Conscious Crop A-C
Best sport crop top for women over 50
Buy from Athleta, starting at $19.97
Why we like it:
Color options
1,400 five-star reviews
High neck
If you've ever wanted to rock a sports bra to class, but have never felt like they offer enough coverage, you may be a fan of this crop top. Its stretchy spandex material holds your curves in, so there's no worry of flashing your spin instructor. It can be worn as is, or layered with a longer tank. The crop top is buttery smooth, rated UPF 50 plus for sun protection, and dries fast. It will look super cute beneath a zip-up hoodie and leggings. It's available in an assortment of colors, and even has removable pads.
Happy customer: "So comfortable and supportive in the appropriate ways! Love the high cut."
Chico's Embossed Camo Anorak Jacket
Best Workout Jacket for women over 50
42% off!
Buy from Chico's, starting at $74.99
Why we like it:
Zip-up with pockets
Button detail
High collar
A zip-up jacket is a must for any workout wardrobe. This one from Chico's is light and breathable, providing perfect coverage for morning walks. It has pockets to store your keys, and is cut high to keep your neck warm — trust, you'll want that on nippy days. Best of all, the gorgeous print dresses up the drabbest leggings or workout shorts, and can even be worn when not exercising. It has lots of stretch, goes up to size 18/XL, and is a great addition to your fitness routine.
Active Research Workout Leggings
Best affordable workout leggings for women over 50
Buy from Amazon, starting at $20.44
Why we like it:
Made with 27 percent spandex!
Sizes up to XXL
Compression tummy panel
Every women needs a good pair of leggings, and the ones from Active Research are easy on the wallet. Besides being breathable and stretchy, they have a tummy-control panel to help engage your core. It also doesn't hurt they suck you in if you've had a giant protein shake! They're perfect for running, yoga, weight training, or even running errands. Our favorite feature, however, is the sneaky zippered pocket in the back. It's a great place to hide keys or cash when you're on the go. Sizes go up to XXL, and more than 1,000 happy Amazon customers say they're a great addition to their workout wardrobe.
Sportswear Phoenix Fleece Pullover Hoodie
Best pullover sweatshirt for women over 50
Why we like it:
Color options
Thick, and warm
Drawstring hoodie
A sweatshirt is very necessary when taking morning walks or runs. You can't go wrong with one from Nike, and the Phoenix Fleece Pullover Hoodie does a great job at keeping the body toasty when temps drop. It's baggy enough to wear a tank and long sleeve shirt beneath, and there's plenty of room around the neck. The drawstring allows you to adjust the fit, so you'll feel comfortable and cozy. It comes in lots of different colors, looks great with legs and sweatpants, but can also be enjoyed with jeans when you're not working on your fitness.
Happy customer: "This fleece hoodie was just my style! It was soft on the inside and an attractive color. It matched my Nike air maxes perfectly. It gave a little bit of an oversized feel, which made it perfect to get things done. I wore it all day and didn’t want to take it off. As a busy mom, it helped me look comfortable and casual!"
Amazon Essentials Women's Studio Relaxed-Fit Racerback Tank
Best workout tank for women over 50
Why we like it:
Slightly loose yet fitted design
More than 12 color options
Reflective logo on back
You can never have too many tanks, and we love this one from Amazon Essentials. Its relaxed fit makes it great for yoga class, and you won't have to constantly readjust it. The breathable workout shirt comes in more than a dozen colors, is light, and perfect for a variety of activities. Even when you're not getting your sweat on you'll love wearing it out to shop or grab lunch with friends.
Happy customer: "I am 5-feet-three, and 150 pounds. I decided on the size L, and it was the perfect fit. Loose and airy... The material was great quality and washed very well. I highly recommend."
Lands' End Active Relaxed Shorts
Best workout shorts for women over 50
Buy from Lands' End, $15.88 (was $52.95) - Use code: FLURRY for 70% off!
Why we like it:
Moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry
UPF 50 fabric provides sun protection
It's no secret that workout shorts are notoriously, well, short. For an option that's a bit more modest, but still easy to move in, head to Lands' End. The brand's active relaxed shorts are made with a moisture-wicking fabric that will keep you dry and odor-free when you're working up a sweat. These shorts also have a UPF 50 factor, providing protection from the sun's harmful UV rays for those taking their sweat-a-thons outdoors. With a stylishly-fitted shape that won’t cling, these bottoms are bound to become a treasured part of your workout collection.
Happy customer: "These shorts are great. They are comfortable, durable and versatile. I wear them for my daily walks, gardening, and to the grocery store. The material keeps moisture away, and it doesn’t snag or tear, and they come out of the laundry looking like new. The mid-rise fit is comfortable and flattering under any shirt."
Under Armour Women's Rival Fleece Joggers
Best Fleece sweatpants for women over 50
Buy from Amazon, starting at $31.50
Why we like it:
Fleece interior for warmth
Color options
Ribbed cuffs
Leggings are great but they're not always warm. Fortunately, these Under Armour Rival Fleece Joggers have you covered when it's frigid out. Their cotton-fleece blend make them super soft but also warm and breathable, so you won't feel like you're sweltering when you raise your intensity. These are also super comfy to sleep in — we're just saying. The joggers come in several pretty colors, go up to 3X, and have tapered ankles to prevent dragging on the floor.
Happy customer: "They are really nice and comfortable sweat pants... The [texture] is soft and at the same time warm. They are my go to sweatpants."
Nike Bliss Luxe Training Dress
Best workout dress for women over 50
Buy from Nordstrom, starting at $90
Why we like it:
Comes in 4 colors
Built-in inner bodysuit
Moisture-wicking fabric
Cute and comfortable enough to wear while riding your exercise bike or hitting balls at tennis practice, this Nike training dress might just become your new favorite garment to work out in. Its stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric will keep you cool and comfy, while the built-in bodysuit (complete with shorts and a secret storage pocket!) ensures you stay covered up no matter how active you get. Be warned, it does come in four color options, meaning you might just want to get this stylish tank dress in every shade!
Happy customer: "This is the perfect all around dress for leisure, hiking, tennis, and more! ... It’s very comfy and light, while being very flattering to my body. I bought it in 3 colors. Even a couple friends bought this dress after seeing mine!"
Chico's UPF Ruched Leg Crops
Best workout sun protectant pants
Buy from Chico's, $19.98 (was $79.50)
Why we like it:
Great for walking and light aerobic activity
Comes in four different colors
Protects against UVB and UVB
Not a fan of leggings? No problem when you own these UPF Ruched Leg Cops from Chico's. They're super comfortable, giving the legs room to breath. Made from four-way stretch Neema fabric, the pull-on bottoms offer 50 plus protect from UVA and UVB, so you'll be good when walking outside. The bottoms are adjustable, and you can grab the look in three other gorgeous colors. Although we'd wear them to power walk or ride our bike, these would also look good with a sweater for a casual evening out.
L.L. Bean Women's Fleece-Lined Primaloft Vest
Best fleece vest for women over 50
12% off!
Buy from L.L. Bean, from $84.99
Why we like it:
Wind-resistant
Zippered pockets
To avoid overheating while you're trying to break a sweat, opt for a sleeveless vest, like this soft-to-the-touch L.L. Bean version, which has a lightweight fleece lining to keep you snug without being bulky. With a high collar and zippered hand pockets for additional warmth on chilly morning runs, it works just as well outdoors as it does inside. It comes in four color options, as well as regular, plus, and petite sizes.
Happy customer: "For cooking, cleaning, working or playing, I find sweaters and sweatshirts warm and bulky. The vest is perfect over long sleeves for an added element of warmth without feeling overdressed, bulky, or overheated."
Sweaty Betty On Your Marks 4” Running Shorts
Best running shorts for women over 50
Buy from Sweaty Betty, $78
Why we like it:
2-in-1 design
Available in sizes XXS-XXL
Finding a two-in-one product always feels like a win, which is why we love these cute and functional running shorts from Sweaty Betty. The ultra-lightweight outer shell is breezy enough to keep you cool while running, while the sweat-wicking inner short lining provides extra support. Two side zip pockets ensure your on-the-go necessities are kept safe, and the four color and print options will have you looking fab whether you're running sprints or errands.
Happy customer: "I bought these shorts for my workouts when we were experiencing a glorious heatwave. They are amazing, so glad I bought them. They are the perfect fit, they don't fall down, and they are super comfortable."
Lululemon Align Pant
Best workout leggings for women over 50
Great deal!
Buy from Lululemon, starting at $98
Why we like them:
Soft and stretchy
Hidden waistband pocket
Made from the brand's own lightweight, buttery-soft Nulu fabric, the Lululemon Align pant is one of the most comfortable pairs of workout leggings on the market today. They feature a high-waisted band that lies flat against the skin and won't dig in, and wick away sweat with ease. With four-way stretch, you'll be able to move about any which way you choose. You can also mix and match them, as they come in 16 fashionable colors.
Happy customer: "I love these leggings. They are lightweight and feel so comfortable! High waist but sits very nicely and not too tight. They also do not fall down when you are moving around."
L.L. Bean Everyday SunSmart Tee
Best workout crewneck for women over 50
Buy from L.L. Bean, $39.99
Why we like it:
Breathable
Offers sun protection
Includes thumb holes
A long sleeve top is exactly what's called for on brisk morning walks. This Everyday Smart Tee from L.L. Bean has long sleeves to keep you just a little warmer, and is made with moisture-wicking material. No matter how much you sweat, you'll remain comfortable, and the top goes great with shorts, leggings, or even cargos. The material is sun protectant, and we love the thumb cutouts in the sleeve. Whether your favorite exercise is hiking, fishing, or cycling at the gym, this top will serve you well.
Under Armour Tech Twist V-Neck Tee
Best workout top for women over 50
Buy from Kohl's, starting at $17.99
Why we like it:
Wicks away moisture
Anti-microbial fabric fights odors
From the athletic apparel masters at Under Armour comes the ultimate workout top: the Under Armour Tech Twist V-neck tee. Available in six sizes and nine stand-out colors, this short-sleeve crewneck is made with Under Armour's quick-drying fabric technology, so it will wick away sweat and dry in a flash. With its added anti-odor protection, this top also prevents the growth of stink-causing microbes, so you can get your sweat on with confidence.
Happy customer: "I love how the shirt is lightweight and stretchy to where it doesn’t cling to you in hot weather or when you’re sweaty. It’s perfect for wearing at the gym or for every day activities."
Outdoor Voices Hudson 4" Skort
Best workout skirt for women over 50
50% off!
Why we like it:
Built-in short liner
Available in 4 colors
From playing tennis and golf to running and biking, this fun and feminine workout skirt, or, skort, is lightweight and flexible enough to adapt to your every move. It's equipped with a short lining for added coverage and support, and even comes with a hidden pouch to store your phone (in addition to waistband and side pockets!). The quick-drying fabric is made with a blend of recycled polyester and spandex for some stretch, and comes in white, black, pink, or navy.
Happy customer: "Perfect for a good day of tennis or a long day of running errands. So versatile, so cute, and SO comfy!"
Lululemon Fast and Free Tight Nulux Tights
Best graphic workout leggings for women over 50
Why we like it:
Passes the “squat test”
Drawcord tightens waistband limiting movement
Available in seven different colors, you’re going to want to buy one of each after slipping these Lululemon leggings on. Known for their quality athletic wear, the brand designed these with their moisture-wicking, lightweight Nulux fabric. They will provide you with style, comfort, and stretch — and like all Lululemon leggings, they’re squat test approved! Featuring two deep pockets on each leg, they’ll easily store your phone, keys, and more. They even have five — count ’em, five — waistband pockets for extra storage when you’re on the go (say goodbye to bulky purses). Worried about droopy waistbands? Just adjust the drawcord in the waistband to help keep these from slipping down.
Happy customer: "The fast and free leggings are my absolute favorite! They are the ideal legging for running or any kind of high-friction activity. I wear them for running and for teaching dance classes. Lightweight and sweat-wicking. I never feel like they are clinging to my body (from sweat) or getting heavier as my activity progresses."
ASICS GEL-Venture 5
Best running shoes for women over 50
Great deal!
Why we like it:
Removable liners accommodate orthotics
Extra heel cushioning
Finding the right running shoes can feel like an impossible task, especially if, like many women over 50, you suffer from debilitating foot pain from a condition such as plantar fasciitis. Fortunately, the ASICS GEL-Venture 5 is here to help. Equipped with extra heel cushioning, removable liners for medical orthotics, and a design that provides excellent traction on all types of terrain, these sneakers are best-sellers for a reason. As one Amazon buyer raved, "I would give six stars if possible."
Happy customer: "I love these shoes! I am hard to please as well due to plantar fasciitis, fallen arches, and lots of screws in my ankle. Great arch support and really beautifully designed shoe. The photo doesn't do them justice. They make me happy looking at them and wearing them. I only wear them to work out and they feel great! Great price, too!"
Sweaty Betty Swifie Running Cap
Best running cap for women over 50
Why we like it:
Available in 4 colors
Lightweight design
Elasticized strap
Whether you're more likely to be running sprints or running errands, a great cap is essential for everyone. Not only are brimmed hats important when it comes to shielding our faces from the sun, they can also help keep our hair from getting in our eyes while we're out and about. We're fans of this lightweight Swifie running cap by Sweaty Betty, which comes with a handy elasticized strap that you can adjust to fit your head perfectly (no more hair getting stuck on velcro!). This cute hat comes in white, black, and navy if you're a fan of neutrals, but it's also available in a green geometric print, which provides some added visibility for safe running and jogging when cars are nearby.
Happy customer: "I ended up buying this hat in four colors because it’s that good. Most adjustable hats are still too big for my head, but this one stays put, even on windy days. I wear this for runs and like that it’s light, sweat-wicking, and has moderate coverage. Worth every penny."
Jorlyen Modal Drawstring Pants
Best workout pants for women over 50
Why we like them:
Loose-fitting
Wide, stretchy waistband
While many women opt for super tight workout pants, they're not always the most comfortable choice. On days when you need a little breathing room, pull on a pair of Jorlyen's modal drawstring pants. Lightweight and airy, these slimming, straight-leg bottoms are made from a soft, stretchy material that offers optimal comfort for everything from hardcore workouts to trips to the store. They're also equipped with a wide, elastic waistband to make for the perfect fit. Our prediction? You'll find yourself reaching for these pants more often than not.
Happy customer: "I love these pants. The material feels like silk against my skin. There is a lot of stretch to the material that keeps them really comfortable no matter what position you are in. I have been trying to find a pair of pants, with pockets that are lightweight, to wear for summer for a long time now. ... These pants are perfect. I highly recommend them."
Lululemon Swiftly Breathe Long Sleeve
Best long sleeved workout shirt for women over 50
Why we like it:
Seamless, lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric
Available in 13 great colors
When cooler weather comes around, Lululemon has you covered with this long sleeved workout tee. Featuring super-soft, seamless fabric, it's great for layering under a jacket or a vest once temperatures begin to drop, or wearing on its own in the gym. With its relaxed construction and moisture-wicking mesh panels, you never have to worry about chafing or clinging. We want it in every color!
Happy customer: "Great quality, super breathable, and comfy. Can wear this over a sports bra when working out or casually when running errands."
Lululemon Define Jacket
Best lightweight workout jacket for women over 50
Buy from Lululemon, $118
Why we like it:
Lightweight and versatile
Available in 11 great colors
A workout jacket is a fitness essential in any season, and Lululemon's Define Jacket is a top-of-the-line pick. Designed to help you stay comfortable during even the most intense workouts, this lightweight, sweat-wicking topper will likely become one of your new favorite pieces. Taking a break from the gym? It's stylish enough to wear as an everyday jacket too, no elevated heart rate required. The slimming silhouette, secure front pockets, and soft fabric make this one piece of fitness clothing that's well worth the investment. Prefer a hooded version? They've got that, too! (Lululemon Hooded Define Jacket, $128)
Happy customer: "I'm typically a size 6 in both tops and bottoms, but based on previous reviews I went up one size and I'm glad I did! The jacket still fits snug without completely compressing me, but not oversized by any means. I can comfortably wear a tank or a Swiftly tech shirt (all sleeve lengths) underneath it. Now I just need this jacket in every color!"
Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe
Best hiking shoes for women over 50
Buy from Zappos, $97.69 (was $144.95)
Why we like it:
Made of durable leather
Waterproof
Grippy Vibram rubber soles
You don't have to have ambitions of scaling Mount Everest to invest in a good pair of hiking shoes — even the most low-impact hikes require proper footwear! Hiking is not only an excellent way of decompressing by taking in nature's scenic views, it can also be an effective cardio workout without requiring too much intensity. For hikes ranging from beginner to intermediate levels, we love the Moab hiking shoe from Merrell, which has been a top outdoor shoe for over a decade. Not only are these shoes great for navigating slippery surfaces — thanks to their tight-gripped Vibram rubber soles — they're also conveniently waterproof, with a moisture-dispersing interior to keep your feet nice and dry. Best of all, they're super comfortable to walk in, as their shock-absorbing soles will lessen the impact on your joints.
Happy customer: "These are perfect. I hiked for three hours in snow and slush and my feet were dry the whole time."
Chrome Industries Women's Merino Wool Cobra 3.0
Best performance hoodie for women over 50
Buy from Chrome, $185
Why we like it:
Breathable yet warm
Moisture-wicking and quick-drying
Perfect for a jog, walk, or bike ride on a cool day, this Merino wool performance hoodie has moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry even when things get a little sweaty. The sleek, form-fitting silhouette is the opposite of bulky, and the adjustable, three-panel hood will help keep you warm when it's windy. Other convenient features are the front and back zippered pockets for storing small essentials like your keys, credit cards, and phone, and cuff thumbholes to give your hands some extra warmth and keep your sleeves in place.
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Organic Basics Organic Cotton Briefs 4-Pack
Best moisture wicking workout underwear for women over 50
Buy from Organic Basics, $74.75 (was $88)
Why we like it:
Ethically made with organic cotton
Available in 8 colors
Underwear might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about workout clothes, but having comfortable, moisture-wicking undergarments is super important for a comfortable experience! For high-quality, organic cotton moisture-wicking underwear, there’s one brand in particular you should be sure to check out: Organic Basics. The company’s bikini briefs come in a set of four and are sustainably-made, lightweight, and beyond comfortable. The firm waistband offers support while you move, and you can customize your four-pack to include two of the seven available color options.
Happy customer: "I am really pleased with this underwear as I've been searching for what feels like years for a comfortable fit. They don't stretch out over the course of the day but also don't cut into my body anywhere. The quality feels good, and while I've only washed them a few times now, I can already tell they will last long. I will definitely purchase more pairs!"
FITTIN Racerback Sports Bra
Best sports bra for women over 50
Why we like it:
Affordable
Wide shoulder straps
If we had to name one item on this list as the ultimate workout essential for older women, it would be the FITTIN racerback sports bra. A vital part of comfort for any workout, sports bras ensure everything stays right where it should — especially during vigorous exercise. We love this one for its integrated Climacool technology, which provides ventilated heat and moisture management for a dry performance, every time. Complete with removable padding, wide shoulder straps, and a racerback design, this bra's smooth, supportive fit is one you won't want to go without.
Happy customer: "I have a hard time finding sports bras that are supportive, and this bra was a pleasant surprise! Because of the price, I didn't expect it to be very high quality. However, it fits, lifts my breasts, and provides just the right amount of coverage/protection. My breasts are heavy, so they tend to sag in bras that don't have underwire. But in this bra, they don't sag at all! I will be buying more colors."
Lululemon Power Stride No-Show Sock with Active Grip 3 Pack
Best workout socks for women over 50
Buy from Lululemon, $38
Why we like them:
Grip tab heel to keep socks in place
No-show length
A list of the best workout clothes for women over 50 just isn't complete without mentioning the often overlooked athletic sock! There's nothing worse than having to keep pulling up your socks when they start to slip down — especially when you're trying to work out. Luckily, these Power Stride socks from Lululemon have a grip tab at the heel, so they'll stay put all day long. Not only that, they're made with a special dual yarn knit for added stretch and micro-cushioning, and provide 360-degree arch support, so you can run, jog — do anything, really! — with comfort and confidence. This three-pack comes in a variety of color options, though the no-show length means they'll stay nice and hidden beneath your shoes.
Happy customer: "Best ever!! They stay put! Light and cooling, don’t even know you have socks on! Totally love them!"
Black High-Rise Pocket Leggings
Best plus size leggings for women over 50
Buy from The Girlfriend Collective, $57.20 (was $88)
Why we like them:
Versatile design
Stretchy material
High-waisted
Keep it casual (or professional!) with a pair of versatile leggings. These classic black leggings from Girlfriend Collective offer style and sleekness with the high-waisted design made to hold everything in. Dress these up or wear them around the house, the black shade makes it perfect for wearing practically anywhere. You can even leave the house comfortably without the bulkiness of a purse, just store your belongings into the side pockets and go.
Promising review: "LOVE these leggings! I have the original style in black without pockets and the pockets are a game changer! The compression and quality/feel of the leggings is really perfect in my opinion. I love the color, all of their products really get the rich colors right!"
