P.E NATION'S GUIDE TO CHOOSING
THE PERFECT WORKOUT SET

Bringing energy to your workout isn’t only about protein powder and opting for the heaviest weights — it’s also about wearing workout clothes that inspire confidence and get you in the zone.

But with the overwhelming amount of activewear options out there, it can be a struggle to find the perfect fit. That’s where P.E Nation comes in.

Use this master guide to learn what makes a great workout set, from fabrics to support and style. Then, discover supercharged looks for the perfect workout, courtesy of P.E Nation.

Workout sets aren’t all function or all style — they’re a perfect blend of the two. Learn how to identify the best materials, find the right support, and create powerful silhouettes with these expert tips.

For your comfort and safety, it’s especially important to pay attention to the materials your workout sets are made from. Heavy and absorbent fabrics cling to sweat and restrict air flow, making it hard to stay cool and dry.

While natural materials like cotton are great for everyday wear, they lose their appeal when sweat is thrown into the mix.

To find the best workout set for you, look for pieces made from materials like:

• Polyester – Polyester is the star of the show when it comes to activewear. It’s used in pretty much everything, and for good reason—it’s ultra-light, breathable, and quickly wicks moisture away from your body. Plus, it doesn’t wrinkle!

• Nylon – Nylon is another synthetic material found in most clothing, including active and everyday wear. It offers the right amount of stretchiness while maintaining its original shape, and it’s great at wicking away sweat, too.

• Polypropylene – If you’re an outdoor runner or hiker, polypropylene is the fabric you can trust to keep you dry on those damp and rainy days. It’s both waterproof and an insulator, meaning you’ll be prepared for any weather conditions you may face.

• Merino wool – Wool is a natural alternative to synthetic materials like polyester. It’s known best for keeping you warm, but it does a fantastic job of keeping you cool, too. This is because the fibers are able to hold onto heat when it’s cold and allow sweat to evaporate when you’re hot.

P.E Nation activewear is made from a variety of fabrics specially designed for maximum comfort and moisture control, from the unbelievably soft and breathable EVERYWEAR fabric to the Italian-made, stretchy, and compressive P.E PRIME fabric—and more.

Even better? P.E Nation is also devoted to sustainability, which is why these fabrics are made from recycled polyester and recycled nylon, respectively.

For sports bra wearers, appropriate support is necessary for any workout set. Why? When exercising, especially during high-impact activities, your breasts can actually bounce up to eight inches. If not managed by a supportive bra, this excessive movement can lead to discomfort, soreness, and sagging.

But keep in mind that the right support looks different for everyone. It can depend on breast size, as well as the type of physical activity you’re doing.

Here’s what you need to consider when looking for a supportive sports bra:

• Band – A sports bra’s band actually provides about 80-90% of a bra’s total support. Since it’s doing most of the work, it’s important that the band is thick enough, depending on your breast size. For those with larger breasts, consider a band that clasps for added security, rather than a pullover or tank-style bra.

• Straps – Straps can have both functional and aesthetic purposes. But remember: while straps offer support and stability, having more straps doesn’t necessarily mean a bra is more supportive.

• Cups – Sports bras come in compression and encapsulation styles. Compression bras look similar to shelf bras and hold your breasts securely to your chest. Encapsulation bras have defined cups that hold your breasts in a more natural position while preventing them from moving. Compression bras typically work best for those with A and B cups, while encapsulation bras are best for those with D cups and higher.

The type of support you need is also impacted by the intensity of exercise you’re doing.

For instance, a pullover shelf bra is perfect for low impact workouts like yoga or Pilates. However, for something that requires a lot of movement, like running or HIIT workouts, you’ll want a sports bra with a thicker band and straps that will keep you comfortable and in place. Our women’s running clothes are the perfect place to look for supportive activewear. If you’re looking to create a full standout outfit for your next low impact workout, we also recommend you check out our blog on yoga outfits.

There are no strict guidelines for fitted vs. loose workout clothes—it comes down to your personal preferences. So, listen to your body. Fitted clothing should be tight, but not constricting. If you have straps digging into your skin or a sports bra band cutting off airflow, opt for something with a little more give.

Ultimately, you should wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable and powerful. Sometimes, that means wearing a baggy tee and sweats, and other times, it means putting on a skin-tight bodysuit. You do you.

With workout set basics down, it’s time to get to the fun part—putting together your perfect workout fits. Luckily, P.E Nation has a massive variety of options to match even the most electric personalities.

Do you base your personality off of your favorite color? If so, a monochrome matching workout set may be the fit of your dreams. For the fuschia fans out there, check out P.E Nation’s Side Switch Long Sleeve Top and Legging combo in the color Hollyhock. Made from the moisture-wicking, sustainable, and slightly iridescent PWR SHINE fabric, this outfit will have you looking as radiant as a (purple) sun.

Not into the bright, flashy colors? Try an all-gray or all-black matching set.

The Camino Sports Bra and Camino Legging in Grey Marl make for the ultimate matching workout set. And if you’re feeling extra spicy, go for the Camino Bike Short.

Because black goes with anything, you can also try the classic Recharge Legging with the Recharge Sports Bra in Black. For added support, opt for the Double Play Sports Bra.

If you’re into funky patterns and clashing colors, we have the pieces for you. Our activewear comes in practically any print you can imagine, including:

• Leopard

• Tortoiseshell

• Camo

• Check

• And more

Make a statement in the Empire LS Top in Geometric Print, be expressive in the Visualise LS Top in Floral Print, or mix patterns for a dizzying, one-of-a-kind fit.

Combine neon hues with subtle blues by pairing the Del Mar LS Top in Safety Yellow with the Amplify Legging in Dark Navy. Or, opt for a complementary pastel look with the Agility Test Tank in Lavender Lustre and the Backcheck Bike Short in Wax Yellow.

Bodysuits are the perfect option for those days when picking out both a top and a bottom feels impossible.

Look sleek in black and white with the Lido Bodysuit, or go for the effortlessly stylish Recalibrate One Piece in Black or Dark Shadow. P.E Nation’s bodysuits are soft and structured, offering comfort and support while at the gym and on the streets.

P.E Nation also has the best staple pieces in men’s workout clothing . Browse our website to find:

• Tees

• Tanks

• Shorts and Pants

• Sweats

Need help finding the perfect pairing? For an easy all-black look, try the Adrenalin Tee and Adrenalin Pant. Both pieces are made from our AIRFORM fabric, which is engineered to be feather-light, quick-drying, and breathable for maximum performance.

For a high-performing workout set that features a pop of color, try the Adrenalin Tank in Skydiver and Adrenalin Short in Insignia Blue.

While P.E Nation activewear is made from the lightest and most breathable materials, not everyone wants a skin-tight workout set. Luckily, we have you covered.

Achieve an effortless tennis look with the Volley Skirt or World Tour Skirt. Both pieces from our signature tennis apparel line  feature built-in bike shorts so you can feel free and secure. Pair with the Backcheck Sports Bra, or stick with the loose look by layering on the cropped Parallel Tee or Undefeated Tank. You can also explore our guide on tennis outfits if you’re looking for additional combos to serve looks in.

If tight workout leggings aren’t your thing, check out our wide selection of pants. The Volley Pant is a flowy and versatile option. Wear them as is or layer them over your favorite bodysuit. They feature side seam snap fastenings so you can customize them however you want.

Switch it up even more by mixing loose and fitted pieces. After all, the baggy tee and women’s bike shorts/leggings combo is an iconic look that gives you the best of both worlds.

Now that you know what to look for in a perfect workout set, you’re ready to put those styling skills to work. Start by browsing P.E Nation’s extensive catalog of activewear.

Whether you’re lifting weights or striking a warrior pose, P.E Nation has the workout sets you need to embrace your unique sense of style and take your gym look to the next level.

For more one-of-a-kind looks and style inspiration, hit up our blog for posts like Gym Outfits 101: Tips and Trends, and 4 Activewear Trends You’ll Want to Wear Beyond the Gym.

SHOP NEW ARRIVALS

CNET. Polyester, nylon, wool and more: The fabrics to look for in your workout clothes.

Planet Fitness. How to Pick the Right Sports Bra For You.