Best Inspiring Activewear & Gear for Women Over 50
Finding activewear that is both functional and stylish can be daunting, especially for those of us over 50 and beyond. Staying active is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves, and having the right workout clothing can make all the difference. Whether we are walking the dog, heading to a Pilates class, or tackling a hike with friends, the key is finding pieces that support, inspire, and make you feel confident. Today, I’m sharing some of my favorite activewear and gear for savvy women like us—because it’s never too late to feel strong, look fabulous, and embrace an active lifestyle! Let’s chat about the best inspiring activewear and gear for women over 50 and beyond!
This time of year, many activewear brands are having sales on workout wear, so I like to pick up a few new items.
Best Inspiring Activewear & Gear for Women Over 50
Comfort & Style
Breathability, comfort, support, and flattering fits are what I look for when selecting active wear. The best workout clothes have breathable, moisture-wicking fabric. If you are planning on working up a sweat, this is important. If you aren’t, why work out, right? Selecting clothes that are comfortable for your chosen type of exercise that suits your body type can be a challenge, I know. I like to add a few bright colors to lift my mood and give me the incentive to get moving!
Outerwear
This time of year it is pretty chilly in the mornings and evenings. A sweatshirt and regular leggings are usually ample during the day. Early mornings and evenings call for warmer layers, like fleece lined leggings, vests and jackets.
Often, when I head out for a walk, it is chilly. I wear my cashmere gloves from Quince on really chilly mornings or evenings. My son and daughter-in-law brought me this great Vuori Jacket that is the perfect weight and plenty worm if I layer it with a sweatshirt. I love these Athleta featherless vests that are no longer available. I wish they would bring them back. They were extremely popular because they covered the bum and had a flattering shape and perfect fit (I am wearing a small). You can find some on eBay here and several on Poshmark here. Every time I wear the gold one (move of an olive green), I receive compliments.
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Workout Tops
I try to find tops in breathable fabric, in different colors that are long enough to cover the bum with long sleeves. I steer clear of tank tops (bingo arms). Baggy t-shirts or loose-fitting tops are fine for a walk or everyday wear, but a sleeker-fitting top in a soft fabric is best for Pilates (so the instructor can tell if your form is correct )(I am learning). I am embracing sweatshirts that breathe for walking and hiking this time of year.
I love the Kozy Karma Twist neck sweatshirt from Athleta (on sale) I picked it up in two colors. The leggings are also from Athleta.
The sweatshirt above is from Gap and super durable. The leggings are also from Gap (not overly thick or compressive), but a good buy for the money.
Bottoms
I like my workout leggings or workout pants to have a lot of compression for support and coverage to hold all the lumps and bumps in. I think those cute flared yoga pants would work for yoga, but I would be afraid they would get hung up on the reformer in a Pilates class. I like a high-waisted design, and back or side pockets for my phone (while walking). My favorite leggings are the Athleta Salutation Stash High Rise 7/8 Legging which I am wearing this years version in the photo below.
The Spanx top above ( I am wearing a small but think I will get an XS if I reorder) is super flattering and lightweight (more for indoor wear or layering) and is on sale. The leggings are from Athleta.
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Supportive Sports Bras
A supportive sports bra with a comfortable fit and adjustable straps is important for high-impact exercises. I like this one from Amazon.
Supportive Footwear
Proper footwear with great support is important at any age, but particularly our age. Proper shoes support joint health and posture whether you are walking, running, or cross-training. Many of us suffer from plantar fasciitis, bunions, and other maladies. Arch support, adequate cushioning and a lightweight design are paramount when choosing.
I have worn the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav Running Shoe (still available at DSW)for years and have been very happy with them other than the fact that I am constantly wearing out the left toe. This season I sprang for the Fresh Foam X 1080v14. They come in wide and narrow and they are pure heaven! I know many of you love HOKA’s. Steve (who has terrible foot issues) and I have both tried them and find them uncomfortable on our feet. Find a shoe you love and pray the don’t discontinue them!
Gear
The right gear can make whatever exercise you choose more fun and effective. You don’t need a home gym to stay active. Simple exercise equipmen such as a yoga mat, resistance bands, and light dumbbells can get you started. For walking, running, hiking or biking, a good water bottle, a crossbody bag or fanny pack to hold your water bottle, keys and your phone are all that is needed. If you can afford it, tech tools like fitness trackers and apps are great for motivation and progress tracking. I have a free app on my phone, but I have an apple watch on my wishlist. Steve and I are also on the hunt for a couple of exercise bikes (hopefully second hand). My assistant swears by the Peloton, and my son loves the Schwinn bike, and thinks the Pelotons are over priced. Any suggestions?
Here is an article from Wirecutter stating their favorites
I am wearing the Quince leggings with an Athleta sweatshirt, new blance sneaks, and a great Pilates matt from Target.
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Where to Shop for the Best Activewear
The good news is there are so many options for your workout wardrobe at every price point for every body shape and type. Sweaty Betty, Alo Yoga, Nike, Lululemon, Athleta, fp movement, Zella from Nordstrom, Gap, Target, and Old Navy, to name a few. Choose workout gear that will last a long time.
Tips for Feeling Confident
Emrace your personal style just as you do in your everyday wardrobe. Choose colors, patterns, and styles that make you feel good and inspire you to move. Age is just a number—your style and health journey are entirely your own.
Embracing an active lifestyle is one of the best ways to stay healthy, vibrant, and confident at any age. The right clothes and gear can make all the difference—not just in how we perform but also in how we feel. Whether you’re taking a brisk walk, hiking, enjoying pilates, or simply enjoying a leisurely stretch, it’s about finding pieces that fit your body, your lifestyle, and your personality. I hope this roundup has inspired you to try something new or refresh your current wardrobe. Let’s keep moving, stay stylish, and show the world that being active never goes out of style!
I had a miserable case of plantar fasciitis several years ago. It took at least a year to heal. I worked with the best PT, who had me do exercises at home, as well as her wonderful in office therapy.
I didn’t like the feel of ice, so my friends and family got used to my admonitions to NOT choose that slightly dented can of Coors Light that was in daily use to roll my feet on!
Her best advice to me was to shop for fitness shoes at our local full service running store. I’ll bet I tried on 15 pairs of shoes, and each time had my gait assessed by a well trained employee. I thought I’d end up with Hoka’s, but no. My feet do well in Saucony’s. I have several pairs in rotation, but try not to wear them for more than a year. I use one pair in the gym, and another for walking. I use good boots for hiking. I’ve bought several pairs at the running store, but have also found discontinued colors at a discount online.
I rarely go barefoot anymore. I have good slippers for indoors, and supportive but cute and practical shoes for everywhere else!
PS. When my pain was at its worst, my PT recommended Crocs, of all things. They are very cushioned, but also have good arch support. The Dylan clog is actually ok looking!
Love those red leggings. You’ve inspired me. Of course you always do.
Any hints for poor souls like me who can t wear leggings? I have normal sized thighs, but really thin calves and ankles.They just look ridiculous flaring out in the calf area!
Hi Jenny
Interesting…They don’t look the greatest on me either, but I don’t want my pants catching on the reformer. I just try not to look too close. Wish I could share some of mine with you ha ha!!
Love your closing words “being active never goes out of style”!
LOVE your red leggings. You wear fitness gear so well. I’m wondering if I can get over a lifelong hang-up about my legs to wear them. Maybe? On conversion to Aussie dollars, they’re about the same as Lulu Lemon.
I wear nothing but Lulu Lemon for fitness – it’s great quality and they have some beautiful colours for full-zip Scuba tops. I buy online from the USA because Australia’s LuLu Lemon persists in boring black and white.
On runners: can of worms! I’m currently in Brooks but they will no doubt be phased out. Husband has plantar fasciitis and has tried a dozen different types with more or less success. Buying runners is like buying jeans and swimsuits – just a bit of a headache.
Cheers. XXX