We're calling it: Animal print activewear is 2021's biggest fitness trend, and these are the best sets to buy

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Brighten up your workout gear with a bold pop of animal print. Image via Free People.
Brighten up your workout gear with a bold pop of animal print. Image via Free People.

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We’re calling it now: 2021 is the year of bold workout gear. Gone are the days of basic black leggings, since although they’re a wardrobe staple, they might be feeling a tad boring after nearly a year of life in lockdown.

Instead, expect to see animal prints everywhere, including activewear as many brands are looking to shake up your work from home wardrobe.

In a year where many of us have turned to athleisure for our everyday wear, it makes sense that the fashion world’s perennial favourite prints are making their way onto sweats, leggings and more.

A fun alternative to classic solid-coloured styles, you’ll find everything from leopard and zebra prints to faux-crocodile motifs this season. They may not be for everyone, but if you’re looking to jazz up your collection of comfy attire, consider adding one of these bold choices below.

Lululemon Align Crop 21"

Align Crop 21". Image via Lululemon.
Align Crop 21". Image via Lululemon.

Buttery soft Align pants get an edgy update with this subtle take on leopard print that features a tone on tone colour palette.

SHOP IT: Lululemon, $88; matching top, $58

ALSO SEE: ‘I’m back on track with my exercise routine' — Amazon customers are loving this affordable under-desk elliptical

Beach Riot Ayla Legging

Beach Riot Ayla Legging. Image via Revolve.
Beach Riot Ayla Legging. Image via Revolve.

Ribbed fabric and a spotted cheetah print bring a playful feel to this set of sculpting leggings.

SHOP IT: Revolve, $124; matching top, $111

High-Waist Snakeskin Vapor Legging

High-waist Snakeskin Vapor Legging. Image via Alo Yoga.
High-waist Snakeskin Vapor Legging. Image via Alo Yoga.

Ultra-sleek and breathable performance Vapor fabric lends a lightweight feel, while a snakeskin pattern stands out from the crowd.

SHOP IT: Alo Yoga, $146; matching top, $69

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The Do-It-All High Rise Full Length Leggings

The Do-It-All High Rise Full Length Leggings. Image via Summersalt.
The Do-It-All High Rise Full Length Leggings. Image via Summersalt.

Soft pastel shades elevate the look of these zebra print leggings, which are crafted using material made from recycled plastic bottles.

SHOP IT: Summersalt, $122 ($95 USD), matching top, $83 ($65 USD)

Onzie High Rise Bike Shorts

Onzie High Rise Bike Shorts. Image via Shopbop.
Onzie High Rise Bike Shorts. Image via Shopbop.

For sweaty workouts, turn to this pair of performance bike shorts to keep you looking and feeling cool.

SHOP IT: Shopbop, $74; matching top, $62

ALSO SEE: Khloé Kardashian hits the gym in a $116 Good American sweatshirt —and draws comparisons to sister Kendall

Strive Glossy Alligator Print High Waisted 7/8 Legging

Strive Glossy Alligator Print High Waisted 7/8 Legging. Image via MPG Sport.
Strive Glossy Alligator Print High Waisted 7/8 Legging. Image via MPG Sport.

Not just your average leggings, this pair features a high gloss finish and an iridescent alligator effect for maximum impact.

SHOP IT: MPG Sport, $66; matching top, $52

Athletic Stripe 7/8 Legging

Athletic Stripe 7/8 Legging. Image via Good American.
Athletic Stripe 7/8 Legging. Image via Good American.

Why stop at one animal print when you could wear multiple, like this pair of on-trend leggings that features an abstract mix of patterns.

SHOP IT: Good American, $135; matching top, $67

Printed Real Me High Waisted Mesh Legging

Printed Real Me High Waisted Mesh Legging. Image via Aerie.
Printed Real Me High Waisted Mesh Legging. Image via Aerie.

Let your wild side shine through with these leggings that have mesh panels for extra breathability - and bonus style points.

SHOP IT: Aerie, $32 (originally $65); matching top, $24 (originally $40)

The Exercise Dress

The Exercise Dress. Image via Outdoor Voices.
The Exercise Dress. Image via Outdoor Voices.

While it may seem like an unexpected choice to get moving, this dress offers plenty of freedom thanks to built-in shorts for coverage.

SHOP IT: Outdoor Voices, $128 ($100 USD)

Marina Animal Yoga Pants

Marina Animal Yoga Pants. Image via Free People.
Marina Animal Yoga Pants. Image via Free People.

Leggings meet joggers in this pair of colourful pants that are finished with a drawstring waistband.

SHOP IT: Free People, $154; matching top, $90

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