Seven Over 50 Flattering Activewear Looks for the Gym and Beyond
Shopping for activewear after 50 can be challenging. The pants that worked when you were younger can dig in at the waist. Sports bras offer zero support where you need it most, and half the styles seem designed for someone in their twenties. We want activewear that actually works with our bodies, not against them. In this post, you will find seven activewear (athleisure, workout clothes or travel wear) looks specifically chosen for women over 50 who want comfort, support, and style without compromise. These pieces will make sure you feel great during your workout, walk, and wherever you head after. Let’s chat about seven over 50 flattering activewear looks for the gym and beyond.
I’ll admit it: I live in my leggings. From the moment I sit down at my desk to the afternoon walk with Scout and the inevitable grocery run, I need an outfit that keeps up without requiring a midday wardrobe change. Is it asking a lot for one look to handle a workout, a workspace, and a public appearance? Yep! But at this stage of life, I’m not willing to settle for anything less than total versatility.
Seven Over 50 Flattering Activewear Looks for the Gym and Beyond
What to Look For
Tops, oversized t-shirts and Sweatshirts that cover the bum, leggings with comprssion and high-waists, flattering jogger style pants, or slight flair leg, comfy sneaks, and outer layers that move with you.
Athleta leggings, Spanx tunic, New Balance Sneaks (my current favorite walking shoe)
High-waisted Leggings with Compression Support
I still wear leggings with longer tops. I love the ribbed ones as they cover a multitude of sins. I know many who swear by lululemon leggings (including my assistant Leslie). I have yet to try them. Currently I like the Athleta Ranier High Rise, the Elation 7/8 High Rise Legging, and the Spanx Booty Boost 7/8 Leggings which are currently on sale in tons of colors. I loved the ribbed elation legging from Athleta and have no idea why they discontinued them. Lululemon has a ribbed version as well that is sold out in most sizes.
Spanx leggings & Athleta top, Sea NY vest (with pockets) (a splurge), MZ Wallace bag (old similar here), Keds sneakers (they come in wide). You could wear the top and pants to pilates, and throw on the vest to run errands.
Varley leggings and mockneck top (love this top and own in two colors), Sea New York Vest, Sorrel boots.
Thermal Leggings for Winterwear
I own these leggings from Athleta, and these from Lands End. These lululemon thermal leggings are highly rated. This option from Quince, I plan to give a try. Amazon has a really reasonable option here. This wool version from REI is the warmest I have found. Eddie Bauer has a great price here on their thermal leggings as well.
Flattering Fitted Joggers that aren’t too Lose or Tight
In my experience, joggers are either incredibly flattering or a complete miss. The secret lies entirely in the weight and volume of the material. When there is an excess of fabric, it creates bulk that draws unwanted attention to the waistline; conversely, if the fabric is too thin, it becomes unforgiving and highlights every imperfection.
Top Athleta, Joggers Athleta, Dolce Vita Sneaks, Camo Bag, Shorty Love.
These Athleta joggers are perfect in my opinion (I find the Vuori performance joggers that are so popular too lightweight). These have enough weight that they don’t reveal every flaw, but they don’t have too much fabric. These are a win win. I ordered these in black too but they sent brown so back they are going! Fitflop just came out with a new sneaker with a retro look that I am sure will be comfy. Find them here. They are sending me a pair. I will keep you posted.
Throw on this great vest from Lisa Bayne for Artful Home (similar here) and you can run errands.
Seven Over 50 Flattering Activewear Looks for the Gym and Beyond
Tops that Cover the Bum
Those of us over 50 and way beyond like me prefer tops with extra length because they offer a more flattering silhouette and provide the extra shot of confidence needed to focus on their workout rather than feeling overexposed in form-fitting leggings.Longer-length performance tops provide extra coverage that allows you to move freely without worrying about your midriff showing. These tops typically hit at the high hip or mid-hip, giving you the coverage most women over 50 prefer.
This price-friendly outfit from Lou and Grey could go from the gym to the airplane, , you can find the top here, the leggings here, the sneakers are from Dolce Vitas here ( suprisingly comfortable if you are looking for brown sneaks) the bag here, and the suitcase here.
I also have this sweatshirt from Athleta in two colors, and I have this top, and this top from Spanx ordered as well.
Flare leg Pants
Yoga pants or slightly flared legs work for travel and everyday wear. I don’t find them to be optimum for actual workout wear but some do.
This varley sweatshirt, and pants are great for travel. The fabric is heavenly. Crossbody here, super comfy sneaks here.
Outerwear that isn’t too Heavy or Light
We live in a moderate climate. It doesn’t get really cold in the winter (most of the time). Most of my walking days I wear this Zella jacket, on colder mornings I wear an old H&M quilted jacket, and on rainy days I wear this great Varley jacket. Athleta has this jacket on sale that is very similar to my old H&M version, and I am sure it is made better.
I ordered this half-zip in Olivine from Spanx, and these pants. I am loving this jacket from Varley, and this coat. I am also coveting these sneaks from Vionic.
You can find all of my favorite activewear looks in my shop here
Thank you for reading seven over 50 flattering activewear looks for the gym and beyond. Finding the right activewear isn’t just about following trends; it’s about choosing pieces that make you feel comfortable in your own skin. Whether you’re hitting a high-intensity class or just grabbing coffee, these seven looks prove that style doesn’t have a shelf life. By prioritizing quality fabrics flattering fits, you can move through your day with a sense of confidence that radiates far beyond the gym or the trail. I’d love to hear from you. What are your favorite brands, and go to active wear pieces?
You might enjoy Best Stylish and Supportive Workout Wear for Women Over 50 here.
Just ordered the Quince mid-rise thermal jogger. I don’t love everything from Quince, but these are pretty good and way more reasonably price than some of the popular brands. I usually wear a 10, got an M in these and they are pretty roomy. They only come in black, brown, navy.
Hi Kristi
Thanks for sharing!!
Love all your workout outfits. I like that you still wear longer tops over leggings.
I’m petite and still have slim legs but at 81, I am just not comfortable in tight clothes. I just ordered some silver grey jeggings from Chicos. This is a first for me. I’ll let you know how comfortable they are as that is number one for me. I live in southern Colorado which is usually cold with frequent snows. We just had one and it is melting fast. Climate change is changing the front range mountains so fast. I will be comfortable in jeans, tee and light jacket today walking the dog.
Hi Sydney
I understsand. Thanks for weighing in. That is what this comment section is all about. We don’t need to always agree! Let us know how you like the jeggings!!
Turned 71 and had to ditch the leggings – even for working out. Just can deal with anything fitting around the crotch. And I live in Santa Fe, an over 65 demographic! My go to is that Athleta Ranier Jogger – great for a workout and still run an errand. and very flattering. Glad you agree.
Hi Connie
I get it!! I love the Athleta Ranier jogger new to me!! I wear the petite! Thanks for weighing in!! I love Athleta. I wish they would make more longer top options!
Hi Cindy,
I love Athleta also, but have been dismayed recently at the lack of longer tops (which they used to offer). Someone suggested ordering a “tall” if the option was available, and it did help with a sweatshirt I ordered.
Hi Kiersten
I am too…I do order talls on occassion!
As always, you look wonderful in your activewear, Cindy. I appreciated this post! I am a very active person who likes to go from the gym to the grandchildren’s athletic events or to the grocery store, so all of your ideas are in my wheelhouse of frequent apparel choices. I think it’s important to keep these clothing items from looking worn out and washed up by not replacing them occasionally. Your post has motivated me to do a little sale shopping and invest in a few new pieces. Thank you for your extensive efforts!
Hi Jayne
You hit on an important note. We have to replace when they look ragged. I have to keep my husband on board with that too. There is a fine line when we get older. Great point!!
athletic wear is for the gym, running or doing Pilates or yoga or at the beach. ..or vacuuming in your own space. It is generally not appropriate in the rest of the environment. I have seen so many awful examples of this type of apparel out in shopping centers. To me it just a step behind wearing pajamas to the market which I see regularly here in San Diego. If you look at what the rest of the world is wearing in major cities you would be surprised to see nicely attired women not in leggings unless they are used in severely cold places and then perhaps underneath another garment. I am sorry to say that this type of clothing is not appealing yet American women use athletic , leisure items as a daily wardrobe everywhere. This is harsh but this is my view.
Hi Donnie
You are certainly entitled to your opinion! I will wear leggings to the market or an errand after a class if my derrier is covered, but I wouldn’t specifically get dressed in activewear to go out to lunch or dinner! Varley for instance (though pricey) has very elevated activewear looks for after skiing, travel etc. I guess it depends on what activity you are doing.
I agree with this. I’m especially offended by women who should not be wearing tight clothes that show every cellulite dimple, fat bulge and roll! It’s inconsiderate and revolting. I’m glad most on here are covering their butts, but the idea that work out gear is acceptable in public is not one I think has been positive for society. I think there’s nicer clothing that’s just as comfortable.
Hi Cara
Thanks for weighing in. I agree we have to take care when wearing activewear in public.
I can see why many enjoy the leggings. If the bum is covered they look cute to run around in. I just do not like anything “tight and fitted”. I’m a very petite person and very fit but just not fond of that tight feeling in my clothes. I appreciate the yoga style pant especially the ribbed sweater styles. I ordered many of those for this winter to lounge in.
I find the yoga pants if of the right material good for working out and lifting weights etc. or running errands but they are harder to create that cute look with long tunic style tops or sweatshirts..needs a more fitted micro fleece style or tee.
Hi Lori
I agree. The reason I said activewear instead of athletic wear is because it is such a wide field. I wouldn’t wear leggings for travel, but I would wear an elevated travel outfit. If I have a class or I am home working in leggings. If I need to run a quick errand after a class or while working from home, I will wear leggings if they are sophisticated enough!!
How have I never heard of Varley? I like the look of their wide leg pant with stitched seam down the leg. I also appreciate that they don’t have a tie where the bow shows at the front of the pant, always making a little bulge under a top. However, they seem kind of pricey, especially if you are going to buy as a set with one of their tops. Wish I could see “in person” before taking the leap. I’m mostly living in outfits similar this winter.
Hi Wren
I completely agree with you about the ties! I always remove those!! We don’t need any added weight at the middle! Many of the major department stores carry Varley. They are pricey but comfy and tasteful for travel.
Cindy, I love the green Varley top and pants but am hesitant to spend that much on them. Do you think the “matched set” will be a quick trend that will look dated soon? I am seeing so much of that look at every price point.
Oh I love this! Sweatshirts and leggings are so comfortable and look slimmer than some sets. I’m not sure why some people are trying to make them Go Away.
Hi Leslie
Neither do I!!