Fashion

9 Pieces to Refresh Your Athleisure Wear This Spring

March 13, 2024

Athleisure hasn’t been the same since the start of the 2020s. The pandemic forced everyone inside, and suddenly, do-it-all clothing that emphasized fitted comfort took over. The balance in our collective closets was quickly restored after a couple of comfort-heavy years. Still, athleisure holds a lot more space than it used to–and for good reason. Brands today are making athleisure wear better than ever with clothes that are as comfortable as those worn-in old gym sweaters, yet cut in a way that’s just as fit for heading out for a casual drink or the gym as it is for days when your only movement is from the couch to the kitchen.

Nike Sportswear Club Fleece

[PARTNER] There are few brands that can match up to what Nike offers when it comes to everything from street style to performance clothing. Athleisure is no exception. These cargo-style pants have pockets on the side big and secure enough to hold whatever you need for a quick outing. When it comes to comfort, it’s made with soft brushed fabric, while cuffs and a drawcord on the elastic waistband keeps the look on the athletic side.

Buy: $65

AIRFLEX Hat

Untamed hair and athleisure wear go hand in hand. Tame it (or at least hide it) with a subtle hat. Mack Weldon's AIRFLEX is minimally branded with an adjustable fit. Quick-dry polyester, a mesh sweatband, and laser-cut ventilation zones means this hat is ready for the athletic side of athleisure as well. Plus, it's machine washable and won't lose it's shape over time.

Buy: $38

Men's Buck Naked Boxer Briefs

[PARTNER] No pinch. No stink. No sweat. Buck Naked Underwear offers comfort and functionality for working men, praised for its lack of discomfort, odor resistance, and moisture-wicking properties. Better yet, they’re stretchy, yet supportive too, for extra ease when you’re climbing or kneeling.

Buy: $14.50

Bondi 8

Don't give up on pampering your feet just because you have to wear close-toed shoes. Hoka's Bondi 8 are incredibly light with foot-supporting foam and a balancing, all-around sole that cushions your foot with every part of the step. Don't just take our word for it: The American Podiatric Medical Association gave the shoe its Seal of Acceptance .

Buy: $165

The Waffle-Knit Hoodie

Everlane's waffle hoodie is perfect for spring days or summer nights around the fire. Or just when the AC feels a little too high. Form fitting without being skin tight, the soft cotton is breathable worn on its own and traps in heat when layered.

Buy: $75

The Cloud Jersey Short

A good pair of shorts that stretch and fit with your leg--as opposed to being baggy or easy to tear with one leg lift--is always welcome when the weather starts to heat up. As the name suggests, these shorts from Fabletics are light "like wearing a cloud" with a soft, modern fit. The four-way stretch means you won't be caught with limited mobility.

Buy: $64.95

Micro Waffle Fast Break Long Sleeve Tee

Hit the athleisure trifecta of fit, form, and function with this long-sleeve waffle shirt. Waffle knit fabric gives it the comfort and feel of a base layer thermal, though the breathable material ensures that you won't be overheating when it's time to take some layers off. It's an easy call for both layers and solo wear thanks to a relaxed slim fit that's not too tight and revealing but not billowing out and catching on whatever you left on the kitchen counter the night before.

Buy: $98

OOFOS x and Wander Recovery Sandals

There's a good chance you've heard of the recovery sandals from OOFOS. They absorb more than a third of the shock from each step for less-stress walking that makes moving around with sore legs all the easier. This pair gets a distinct touch by and Wander to stand out from the crowd of slides out there.

Buy: $96

Adidas Classic Track Jacket

A long-time favorite for athletes, amateur athletes, weekend warriors, and more for good reason. The iconic Adidas stripes run down the sleeves, and the stand-up collar adds style and a bit of protection from any passing breezes. It's the perfect light jacket to go from a morning run to the coffee shop to the couch.

Buy: $80